Today we’d like to introduce you to Lydia McConnell.
Hi Lydia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I was born and raised in Seattle, WA but relocated to Miami in 2017. After finishing design school I knew I wanted to do something creative and design related but I wasn’t sure what. I also knew I wanted to work for myself and not work in an office.
After moving to Miami I joined a local makerspace, where I learned how to use their laser cutter. Miami is a bright, colorful place and I wanted earrings to match my unique style. I started making earrings at the makerspace out of wood using their laser cutter. I would then hand-paint the earrings using bold, bright colors. I received so many compliments while wearing the earrings I decided to try and sell them at a local weekend market.
After that, the business just took off. In 2021, I relocated to San Antonio, TX to expand our team as well as our studio space. We are currently in 200 stores throughout the U.S.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
One challenge for me has been learning and perfecting so many new skills. When you’re a small business owner you need to not only create your product but learn to photograph it, create social media content, build a website, learn about packaging and shipping, and the list goes on and on.
Before you know it you’re spending less time on your actual craft and more time on the less glamourous behind-the-scenes aspect of the business. That part has been hard for me. I love to create and that’s where I thrive the most.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I design each earring on a computer-based design program called, Illustrator. I then laser-cut each piece out of sustainable wood and then hand-paint each one. By hand-painting them I’m able to create the exact design I want with as much color and detail as I’m after.
As a brand, I am most proud of our relationship with our customers. I really appreciate our customers and take all their suggestions to heart. I want our customers to not just wear our brand but feel a part of our brand. When a customer comes to us with an issue I really listen and come up with a solution to solve it. Or when a customer comes to us with an idea for a new design, if it fits with our brand’s mission, I am more than happy to create it.
I think what sets Le Chic Miami apart from the rest is, our whimsical designs and use of bright colors. I want to create something that brightens someone’s day. Something they not only feel confident wearing but something that makes them happy.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
The best way to support Le Chic is to check out our website, https://lechicmiami.store if any styles speak to you we’d absolutely love your business. Your support means we can continue to do what we love. Another free way to support us is to follow us on Instagram (@lechicmiami) and share our profile with your friends.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lechicmiami.store
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lechicmiami/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lechicmiamiearrings
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZncv1yq9z0_6tVsOph55Jw
Image Credits
Cinphotos, Audrie Barrera
