Today we’d like to introduce you to Valary Sanders.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Before starting an eyewear brand, I worked in the music industry as a tour manager for a rock band. Being on the road and traveling globally was amazingly eye-opening; the best form of education. I was able to explore so many random places I would never think to travel to for “vacation.” But after five years, I broke away from tour managing to fulfill more creative aspirations. My passion has always been in fashion, but very loosely; from cut and sew t-shirt designs to hand-studded belts. My twin sister and I decided to start an eyewear brand in 2017 because we simply were not finding a sunglasses brand which resonated with us. The industry was dominated by mass-production and we hoped to launch a more personalized experience. One which embodied our roots in the music industry as well as our love for worldwide travels. We had zero experience in the eyewear world. We began with a concept and dove right in, learning the technicalities along the way.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
With zero technical experience, we have made numerous mistakes! Learning the logistics of quality frames required us to be extremely hands on; from our initial designs to the CAD drawings, to color samples to production. We visited our factories to educate ourselves on the manufacturing process and ensure we were crafting sunglasses of top-tier quality. But still, we have run into many manufacturing defects and production delays along the road! We are always brainstorming creative solutions. It has been super bumpy but super fun.
Saint Owen – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
My sister and I create all the designs for Saint Owen. We also handle all creative outlets such as mood boards, styling and concepts for our campaigns. The brand is an extension of who we are and we pour our hearts into it.
As a female owned-and-operated brand, we are a rarity in the industry which is dominated by male influence on all fronts. Being an independent brand, we are able to move fluidity with the freedom to create passion pieces. We manufacture at like-minded family-owned factories which allows us to do specialty releases and limited edition runs. We produce small quantities with an emphasis on craftsmanship and custom accents. All of our designs are entirely one-of-a-kind.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
My proudest moments have come from seeing a design come to life. From paper to frames in hand, it’s incredibly rewarding to put on a pair of sunglasses and know you nailed it. When we get emails from customers saying how much they love their sunglasses and how the frames elevated their mood or uplifted them in some way . . . these are the moments that keep me pushing on.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.saintowen.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @saint.owen
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