Meet Lili Tanner of Lili T. California in Joshua Tree

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lili Tanner.

Lili, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
It all started with a simple leather clutch I made for myself and the lady in the parking structure who wanted to buy it off me. The same happened with a few pieces of jewelry I had made for myself.

Seven years later, Lili T. California has grown considerably and is now represented in stores all over the country. I love how in today’s marketplace, you can live and work in the middle of the Mojave desert – in 29 Palms – and send your pieces out into the whole wide world. I love being swallowed by the solitary desert vastness that opens my mind in all directions and lets me be and work.

Before becoming a designer and an artisan, I was a writer – art critic, columnist, copywriter, novelist.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It’s been a constant slow growth. The first store I’ve been represented in was DeKor in Ojai. DeKor is still one of my best stores – they are now in LA and in New York City as well and I love showing my work in all of them. I’ve shown at some craft markets – before COVID – that was very successful. I’m in a very good local store nowhere in the desert where I live: Acme 5 in Yucca Valley. Having a strong local representation is important to me. I also love being represented at The Marfa Store. During the pandemic, my online sales have shown a steady growth. I showcase mostly on Instagram @lili.t.california.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Lili T. California story. Tell us more about the business.
I make jewelry and leather bags and accessories. I’m most known for my hand-sculpted bronze jewelry for sure – my rings most of all. The jewelry is what I’ve been concentrating on for quite some time now. Each piece is individually handmade. Nothing is cast which gives each piece its unique quality which is something people really appreciate. I’m happy to have true lovers and collectors of my work.

Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I have a good sense of timing – that’s how I lucked into being in the right place at the right time – in life and in business.

Contact Info:

• Website: lilitcalifornia.com
• Phone: 3105080538
• Email: lilitanner@me.com
• Instagram: @lili.t.california

Image Credit:
Joyce Kim for portrait, Lili Tanner for product shots

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