B~Inspired | Rachael Byers Jewelry Designer

I’m so excited to share with you my friend and jewelry designer Rachael Byers. Her line, Rachael Ryen Jewelry, has literally taken off in the last few months and has already been featured on Yahoo.com, Southern Living Magazine & NY Daily News…just to name of few! I sat down with Rachael to get the inside scoop into her process, what she was doing before launching her own line & just what inspires her!! Keep reading for your chance to win a great prize from her online store! 


You weren’t always a jewelry designer, so what were you doing before you started your own company?

Before designing jewelry I worked in corporate as a Customer Experience consultant where I developed programs to increase customer satisfaction. Possessing a certain level of expertise around this subject matter has been exceptionally wonderful in terms of building relationships with my retail and wholesale clients.

How did you decide to take the leap of faith to start your own company?

Initially, making jewelry started as a hobby, creating pieces for friends and then selling to a handful of local boutiques. That real “leap of faith” moment came when my fiancé received a job offer here in Boston. The company I worked for wasn’t open to the idea of me working remotely so I knew a change was imminent. It was actually my fiancé who pushed me to take on the jewelry full time and so I drew out a plan of what that would entail. As we settled into life in Boston everything sort of fell into place and Rachael Ryen became my full time job.

What was the hardest part about leaving your career?

There’s definitely a perceived security when you have a corporate job, knowing you can count on a steady paycheck. I would say that along with having a marketing department, legal team, IT support and several other teams to help accomplish your objectives. I am all of these things now and the workload can be a bit much. I definitely had a better work/life balance before, but it’s something I’m working on. 


What’s a typical day like for you? How do you find the time to fit
everything in?

I don’t really have a typical day,
except that I always start with coffee and checking emails. Sometimes my days
start at 4am on a Skype call with stone cutters across the world. Other days
I’m filling press requests for samples or responding to boutiques with
information on the line. I also travel quite a bit to trade shows and New York
City. When you run your own business there is always something to do and no two
days are ever the same, which is what I love!

What is your favorite part about being your own boss?

I really enjoy the challenge of looking at a problem or
opportunity, making a decision, and truly being accountable for my actions. It
is a pretty powerful feeling. I’ve also learned more than I could have ever
hoped for in this past year and a half. It’s definitely not easy, but I
wouldn’t trade this time for anything. Everything I do during my day has an
impact on my business, and I see that. It’s really exciting.

Where do you find the inspiration from your pieces?

Quite literally, everywhere. I took
a picture of a napkin last week because I was inspired by the stitching. I
always look at the latest jewelry trends and then decide how to put my own spin
on it. The last two collections have utilized the baguette shape which has
become a bit of a signature look for me. I also look at vintage jewelry pieces
constantly and find design aesthetics that I’ll integrate into my designs as
well.

You are getting married this year, so will you be wearing your own collection at your wedding this
year?!

Of course! I’m actually planning on
using my wedding as a means of introducing an extension to my line specifically
designed for brides. The earrings and necklace I design for myself will be part
of a 10 piece Bridal capsule collection that will be introduced this fall.

Can you take us, in layman’s terms through the process of design
to physical product?

Sure! Every design starts with a
concept sketch. Think of this as a messy doodle and usually I’m the only person
who can decipher what it is. I’ll take the concept sketch to a technical design
which is 4 parts; front, back, side views with very detailed measurements of
the piece. That technical sketch is turned into a CAD drawing and sent back to
me for approval. Once I approve the design it goes into production. The CAD
design is used to 3D print a model of the piece which is then used for casting.
While the casting process is happening any stones used in the piece are being
cut. Once everything is complete, the stones are set and the piece is finished.

What do you think makes your jewelry stand out? 

My collection offers something for everyone, but I’d say the quality and price point are two aspects that definitely differentiate my line from others. I love creating pieces that look a lot more expensive than they really are.

What can we expect from the Rachael Ryen collection in 2015?

I’m focusing on expanding into more boutiques across the US to give customers beyond Boston places to shop for Rachael Ryen in person. On the design front, this year I plan to continue offering versatile pieces that can take you from office to happy hour. I’ll also be adding some edgier pieces and, of course, launching a bridal collection later in the year.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Starting the journey to owning a
business isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s more work than you could ever
imagine. Make sure you choose something that you’re truly passionate about
because you will eat, sleep and breathe it for years. Talk to others who have
already journeyed down the path you want to take. Ask a LOT of questions.
Listening to the stories of other entrepreneurs is critical for your sanity.
All too often we are bombarded with the faces of overnight success which can
leave you feeling like you’re “missing” something. It’s those individuals who
are willing to tell the messy side of this, details of mistakes…those are the
people that help you realize you’re normal and you’re not supposed to have all
the answers.

I love to read quotes and even have an entire Pinterest board dedicated to them, so I have to ask, what is one quote you live by?

“Everything you want is on the other side of fear.”  – Jack Canfield

Do you have a major wishlist item at the moment?

Ordinarily I’d say it would be an order from Bloomingdales, but after all this snow I’m craving a vacation somewhere warm!!! 

What has been your most inspired moment thus far?

I was at my first trade show last
October when I met the jewelry buyer for a national retailer. At first I had no
idea who she was, we were just talking about the line, pricing and materials.
Then she introduced herself and asked for samples. It was the beginning of my
first big order. I can’t tell you how rewarding it is to have something like
that happen…it really validated my decision to take the leap of faith and commit
myself to the line full time.

If you could have dinner with any woman in the world, who would it
be and why?

Sara Blakely of Spanx. She’s an incredibly inspiring
business woman and I’d love to ask her about her journey including the types of
hurdles she faced along the way and what advice she has for entrepreneurs who
are early in their journey.

And finally…what are three things you never leave home without?

My cell phone, jewelry, and lip gloss. 

You’ve seen a few of the pieces in the line strewn through the post, but now is your chance to win a $50 gift card to Rachael’s online shop! Enter the giveaway below for your chance! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you could take the leap of faith to be your own boss, would you?


xo,

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73 Comments

  1. Jenn
    February 24, 2015 / 11:39 am

    She definitely has some amazing pieces!! I definitely saw at least one ring, necklace, earrings and bracelet that I liked out of just your pictures alone!

  2. Anonymous
    February 24, 2015 / 11:55 am

    Thanks for sharing this Biana! I loved reading about her journey and it definitely takes guts to leave a corporate job for sure. She's definitely inspriring!
    Happy Tuesday!

    xoxo
    Karen
    kensingtonwest.me.uk

  3. Claire | Fashion + Feathers
    February 24, 2015 / 11:57 am

    So inspiring and such beautiful jewelry! I love those hexagon necklaces.

  4. Meghan at Champagne & Suburbs
    February 24, 2015 / 12:00 pm

    I saw Rachael in Southern Living and was obsessed with her jewelry! I love the pieces you have selected; just went to check them out. Also love her story! I would definitely be my own boss if I could! 🙂 xo

  5. Rachel Emily
    February 24, 2015 / 12:01 pm

    It's all so beautiful! How would I ever choose? I think what I definitely need is the Micro Pave Bar Necklace in gold. I actually hadn't heard of Rachel before so thanks so much for sharing!!

  6. Pamela {Sequins and Sea Breezes}
    February 24, 2015 / 12:09 pm

    Wow she has some amazing pieces!! I think it would be amazing to start my own company but like her, I'd be terrified to lose that sense of security a corporate job gives you. Kudos to her for taking the leap though It definitely paid off!!

  7. awhite
    February 24, 2015 / 12:17 pm

    Rachael's line is gorrrrrrgeous! And she's so brave + cool for striking out on her own. Loving the pave drop pendant!

    Great feature, lady!

    -Ashley
    Le Stylo Rouge

  8. M @ The Sequin Notebook
    February 24, 2015 / 12:41 pm

    Such gorgeous pieces and also very inspiring! I love hearing about the design process and also the process of starting your own business.

  9. Paige @ Reasons to Come Home
    February 24, 2015 / 12:44 pm

    So many beautiful pieces! I love that she took the leap of faith to start her own company! How scary but so rewarding! My favorite piece is rectangle pave bangle bracelet.

  10. Megan @ ThefancyFlamingo
    February 24, 2015 / 12:45 pm

    Love all these pieces especially the rings. I've been wanting a nice dainty ring to wear daily. Shes definitely an inspiration to work at her passion as she has. I wish her all success!

  11. Kate at Green Fashionista
    February 24, 2015 / 12:51 pm

    Absolutely gorgeous pieces! Her leap of faith definitely paid off, I would love to have any of the pieces you pictured above. I especially love the pave drop necklaces in turquoise and lavender 🙂

  12. Karly @ What Karly Said
    February 24, 2015 / 1:03 pm

    Wow, what a fascinating woman! I admire everything that she's doing and what she stands for – I can relate to her on a lot of levels. Her jewelry is gorgeous, I think I'd love one of her bar or stone pendant necklaces!

  13. Kerry @ Till Then Smile Often
    February 24, 2015 / 1:11 pm

    What a beautiful line, I would most likely go with earrings. The Trillion Triangle Studs in Aqua Chalcedony are stunning.

  14. Ashley
    February 24, 2015 / 1:12 pm

    These types of posts are always my favorite! So excited to find out about a pretty new jewelry line! The baguette cuff is calling my name!

  15. Amanda Elizabeth - Meet @ the Barre
    February 24, 2015 / 1:19 pm

    Her pieces are absolutely stunning!!!! Yeah for highlighting female entrepreneurs!!!! She is amazing. I am obsessed with all her delicate pieces but love those long necklaces!

  16. Katie Elizabeth
    February 24, 2015 / 1:34 pm

    Her jewelry is absolutely gorgeous! I'm in love with those rings! Thanks for this post – I always love to see what entrepreneur's 'typical days' are like 🙂

  17. Unknown
    February 24, 2015 / 1:41 pm

    yahh! great giveaway! i follow her on instagram and i love love her gold sunburst necklace and baguette gold bar necklace. xo jillian – cornflake dreams

  18. Shannon Jenkins
    February 24, 2015 / 1:46 pm

    Wow she sounds so passionate! What a rewarding job! Her jewelry is absolutely gorgeous!! Fingers crossed on the giveaway!

    <3 Shannon
    Upbeat Soles

  19. Lyndsay
    February 24, 2015 / 1:50 pm

    These pieces are so pretty, and it's always nice to know more about the lady behind the designs.

    prosecco in the park

  20. Caroline @ Windy City Chic
    February 24, 2015 / 1:58 pm

    So pretty, I love them all! The necklaces are especially pretty. It was nice to learn more about the designer/your friend too. I'm with her on the beach vacation too!! Haha. Hope that you are having a good day so far too lady! 🙂

  21. Kristina @ Medicine and Manicures
    February 24, 2015 / 2:02 pm

    Love this post and all the jewelry- the studs and rings are my favorite!! xo

  22. Cupcakes and Crossbones
    February 24, 2015 / 2:09 pm

    What beautiful designs! Guess I have to go shopping!

  23. Unknown
    February 24, 2015 / 2:14 pm

    What beautiful jewelry! Those stones are gorgeous!! Thanks for introducing me to such a lovely new designer!

    Xoxo,
    Whitney & Blaire

    Peaches In A Pod

  24. Lauren
    February 24, 2015 / 2:44 pm

    I would love one of those long pendant necklaces! She has gorgeous stuff!

    -Lauren
    prettypiecesblog.com

  25. Unknown
    February 24, 2015 / 2:51 pm

    Gorgeous jewelry, I love the cuffs!

    Style by Avery

  26. Katie @ yellowmangolife.blogspot.com
    February 24, 2015 / 2:52 pm

    B what a great feature and hearing what Rachael had to say about jumping out of your comfort zone and taking a leap is exactly what I need to hear right now! I found myself loving every piece in this post and on her website more than the next, but would have to say I'm loving the arrowhead pendants and the green onyx gemstone pendant. Gorgeous!

  27. A Picture a Day
    February 24, 2015 / 2:54 pm

    I love the stud earrings – especially the moonstone ones.

  28. Christina Lea Loves
    February 24, 2015 / 3:03 pm

    Her jewelry is so beautiful! I saw so many pieces I liked just in this post – I can't wait to checkout her website!

  29. Julia
    February 24, 2015 / 3:03 pm

    Love this, so cool to learn more about women entrepreneurs! Her jewelry is beautiful!

  30. Elise @ High Heels and Glittering Eyes
    February 24, 2015 / 3:06 pm

    What a great post B! I love the elongated octagon necklaces. Works for day or night!

  31. JMO
    February 24, 2015 / 3:07 pm

    Wow- what a dreamy collection! Those studs are absolutely b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l! Thanks for introducing her and this line! xo

  32. Carly
    February 24, 2015 / 3:11 pm

    Is it bad I was reading this post and secretly hoping there would be a giveaway at the end? 🙂 I love these posts and I've been loving jewelry lately so this is the best of both worlds. Rachael's work is so beautiful and she is definitely inspiring! The bangles are so pretty!

  33. Unknown
    February 24, 2015 / 3:15 pm

    She is definitely a talented woman! What a great eye she has for putting great pieces together.

  34. Amanda | Kids and Cabernet
    February 24, 2015 / 3:26 pm

    I love when you do posts like this. Such a great interview and your friend's jewelry is beautiful! Congrats to her!

  35. Denise
    February 24, 2015 / 3:26 pm

    Thanks so much for sharing this! Such an interesting story and such an awesome story behind the company. I always love hearing about the person or face of a company! The jewelry is gorgeous!

    Denise
    fashionloveletters.com

  36. Emily @ Martinis | Bikinis
    February 24, 2015 / 3:53 pm

    Her pieces are gorgeous and just my style! I think I would want one of all the pieces pictured! haha. Thanks for introducing her jewelry! I love the earrings and rings the most, I think.

  37. Dress in Sparkles
    February 24, 2015 / 3:57 pm

    Her pieces and line are SO pretty! I definitely need some in my life!

    xo Kylie
    dressinsparkles.com

  38. 365HANGERS
    February 24, 2015 / 4:06 pm

    Such an incredible interview, and we're in love with her pieces!! Wow, we can't imagine how incredible it must feel to go for something and see it succeed!!

    xx 365Hangers

  39. Kristen
    February 24, 2015 / 4:07 pm

    loved reading this post, had no idea starting a business was so hard, though i guess i have never really thought about it because i dont have anything i am super talented or passionate about – good for her for finding something she loves! some of these pieces are absolutely stunning!

  40. Gold Coast Girl
    February 24, 2015 / 4:21 pm

    Such a great post! I love all of her designs and those necklaces are fabulous!
    ~Samantha
    goldcoastgirlblog.com/

  41. Good Girl Gone Glam
    February 24, 2015 / 4:30 pm

    This stuff is GORGEOUS! I'm going to check this out now! Such a great post! xo
    Marianne
    goodgirlgoneglam.com

  42. SMD @ lifeaccordingtosteph
    February 24, 2015 / 4:38 pm

    Beautiful stuff & great interview. Thanks for sharing!

  43. P!nky
    February 24, 2015 / 4:39 pm

    WOW, what beautiful pieces! I love the earrings!

  44. Unknown
    February 24, 2015 / 4:40 pm

    I love reading about women who start their own businesses and take risks! I always find their stories so inspiring! Thanks so much for sharing Biana. This collection is exquisite! I especially love those blue and green earrings! So feminine and flattering!

    taffetaandtulips.com

  45. Daily Style Finds
    February 24, 2015 / 5:10 pm

    Those are beautiful pieces. Thanks for sharing this interview with Rachael.

    Lisa
    Daily Style Finds

  46. Rebecca Jo
    February 24, 2015 / 5:20 pm

    How beautiful!!!! I cant imagine making such beautiful pieces… I'd wear it all!!!

  47. Nadine
    February 24, 2015 / 5:24 pm

    Beautiful jewelery and I loved reading through this interview! I would love love love to own my own business one day. It is such a leap of faith and I know it is going to be a lot of work. I just wish I had a starting point figured out for myself, ya know?! It is so inspiring to read about other peoples journeys.

  48. Unknown
    February 24, 2015 / 6:11 pm

    I love posts like this – what beautiful jewelry and great interview questions!

    xoxo

    Kaley

    My Closet Life Blog

  49. Unknown
    February 24, 2015 / 6:11 pm

    That star burst ring is so pretty! This was a fun interview to read 🙂

    xx Sera | STARDUSTBOHEMIAN.COM
    (IG: @TheStardustBohemian)

  50. Pink and Fabulous
    February 24, 2015 / 6:58 pm

    Such a great read! I love hearing how an entrepreneur (girl boss!) does it, and this is inspiring! I LOVE the triangle pave earrings! Gorgeous designs!

  51. Unknown
    February 24, 2015 / 8:51 pm

    Her pieces are beautiful and I love hearing about people who chase their dreams and are successful! So inspiring <3

    lovejoanna.com

  52. Anonymous
    February 24, 2015 / 9:15 pm

    Wow I love her pieces, and especially those intricate 'diamond' looking rings! Awesome designer 🙂

  53. Anonymous
    February 24, 2015 / 9:33 pm

    What an inspiring and talented businesswoman! Thanks for featuring her and sharing this great brand 🙂

  54. MakeMeUpMia
    February 24, 2015 / 9:52 pm

    WOW!! Her line is absolutely stunning, what beautiful pieces. Great interview gilr!

  55. Darcy
    February 24, 2015 / 10:18 pm

    Wow her stuff is beautiful! Thanks for the giveaway! I really love the triangle studs!
    amemoryofus.com

  56. Tiffany {A Touch of Grace}
    February 24, 2015 / 10:37 pm

    Wow, absolutely gorgeous pieces! Excited she's expanding beyond Boston!

  57. Ally- Life as I know it
    February 24, 2015 / 11:08 pm

    Her jewelry is so gorgeous! I can't choose which I like more, I like them all!
    Ally – Life as I know it

  58. Meghan @ Southern Belle Secrets
    February 25, 2015 / 1:09 am

    What a great interview, B! I can't wait to stalk her website, I can already tell I love Rachel's work from the images in the interview, she has beautiful pieces. Thanks for sharing! I would LOVE to win the rose cut amethyst ring, OR the lapis octagon drop necklace. Definitely not easy choices.

    xoxo,
    Meghan
    Southern Belle Secrets

  59. Katie
    February 25, 2015 / 2:05 am

    Love all of her pieces! I especially love the Micro Pave Bar Necklace in gold!

  60. meandmr.com
    February 25, 2015 / 3:12 am

    Her stuff looks wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
    Melanie @ meandmr.com

  61. Kay R.
    February 25, 2015 / 3:24 am

    Those pieces are absolutely beautiful!!

  62. Courtney B
    February 25, 2015 / 3:30 am

    Love her jewelry!! So gorgeous!

  63. Stephanie Chalk
    February 25, 2015 / 4:25 am

    Rachel's jewelry line is beautiful – I love many of the items that you shared! Great interview too, can't wait to see her bridal line! I'm sure it will be gorgeous too. Xo, Stephanie

  64. Unknown
    February 25, 2015 / 5:27 am

    Her jewelry line is beautiful – she completely deserves all the recognition she gets (: Thanks for introducing her to us!!!

    – Deniz
    dressedupdeniz.com

  65. Unknown
    February 25, 2015 / 7:27 am

    Congrats to her for her growing business and its recent spotlight! I love the different stones she uses in her necklaces and rings, the cobalt blue is my personal favorite 🙂

    Mili

  66. Elle Sees
    February 25, 2015 / 11:10 am

    i can see why it's growing! the pieces are beautiful!!

  67. Lisa @ Life as Lisa Knows It
    February 25, 2015 / 5:22 pm

    I love the Baguette Cuff Bracelet!

  68. The Beauty and The Business
    February 25, 2015 / 6:08 pm

    I love the triangle pave opal necklace!

  69. Nichole @ casadecrews.com
    February 25, 2015 / 8:48 pm

    I love all of these pieces! So gorgeous!

  70. Claire
    February 25, 2015 / 10:57 pm

    These pieces are all so gorgeous! I want everything!

    God bless,
    xo, Claire
    Http:// littlemissfashionqueen.blogspot.com

  71. Unknown
    February 25, 2015 / 11:56 pm

    Rachael's rings are stunning. I am looking forward to her bridal line. Her pieces are simple and elegant.
    I could definitely see myself being my own boss someday. I think when I'm ready to have a family I'd be ready to work for myself as well. 🙂

  72. kerri @ cheshire kat
    February 27, 2015 / 6:25 pm

    ok seriously 1. all of that jewelry is so gorg – there's no way i could pick just one of my favs. and 2. i'm a terrible commenter. better late than never! xo

    cheshirekatblog.com

  73. chenlina
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