Headwraps ‘n Earrings: Pretty Little Wire
These week when mulling about the natural hair groups, *pumps fist for all the afros*, I stumbled across the owner of this week’s Headwraps ‘n Earrings diva, Allison Frith of Pretty Little Wire! Okay, so you already know about me and jewelry. I like it big. I like it unique. I like it colorful. Pretty Little Wire has it all. I want everything but first, let’s get to know the artist behind such intricate pieces.
Me: Hi Allison, tell us about yourself, Pretty Little Wire, how you got started and why you decided to launch it into a business?
Pretty Little Wire
Allison:
First off I want to thank you Jasmine for contacting me…BIG SMILE! Well let’s see, I am 24 and originally from Brooklyn, NY. I am a graduate of Hampton University, full time Marketing Specialist and currently reside in Alexandria, VA. Pretty Little Wire to me is a very special venture to me and honestly one that I didn’t expect to open up to the world. It represents more than just nice accessories, to me it’s about embracing your individuality, expressing yourself and living freely!
She was born the end of 2011 when a lot of changes came about in my life and I decided to just be free and find what makes me happy! I have really found a love for creating my designs because I have complete control of it, it’s fun and I OWN IT! I have always been a free spirit at heart but for too long tried to adhere to the “norm”. Now I embrace being me more than ever!
I first started giving my pieces away to family and friends. The response was great and they really pushed me to launch it. Especially my best friend who really knew about the journey since day one. But even through the encouragement I told myself that once I create my favorite piece of jewelry in my closet I was ready…And here I am now.Me: Awesome, are you inspired in the middle of the night with epiphanies on your next creation or what moves you to go with the designs you’ve chosen?
Allison: Man… you have no idea how lost I get when I start making jewelry. It’s the 1stthing I do when I get in from work and sometimes find myself up until 2am in the same spot just working. Especially if I get new materials that day, I get so excited and have to make something right away! I can’t explain it but I have found love lol. I really don’t plan my designs, I just create! My favorites pieces are the ones I that weren’t planned. Whether it’s using up left over materials or mixing several. I wantto create products that are still current as far as “trends” but still make them unique and my own.Me:I’m a fan of wire wrapped jewelry and fussed with first my thumb, then later a ring mandrel. How did you learn to wire wrap and was it tricky for you?Allison:I am self taught. I started out with one spool and played around with it determined to teach myself. Then I started doing research and learning more about the technique. Since I have no formal training it took a few tries and even a few cuts but I got it. I wouldn’t say it was tricky but it takes patience. Nothing worthwhile comes easy.Me:You also make very large, geometric earrings? (I peeped the pic with the headband so that might be in a future HNE post!) Do you use expensive or heavy materials to make them?
Allison, Pretty Little Wire
Allison: I make an array of jewelry pieces, many of which I have not yet put out because I want to offer only my best and quality. But I love statement pieces! For my earrings I use a wide range of materials and make everything light weight.
Me: I mostly saw rings in your store but what other types of jewelry can we buy at Pretty Little Wire?
Allison: Yes I currently have rings up but more is to come! Pretty Little Wire will offer bracelets, earrings and necklaces as well! I have ring/bracelets and earring/necklace sets up very soon!
Me: I have so many other questions but most importantly, where can our readers find you online and get some of your goodies to boldly accessorize?
Allison: Etsy: PrettyLittleWire.etsy.com(http://www.etsy.com/shop/PrettyLittleWire)
Facebook Fan Page: PrettyLittleWire (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pretty-Little-Wire-Handmade-Jewelry/277935895595857)
Email:allison.frith@yahoo.com
Personal Facebook: Allison Frith
Tumblr: alleykatt5491.tumblr.com(http://alleykatt5491.tumblr.com/) (follow with caution)
You guys can follow my personal blog only if you want to get to know the person behind the brand! It will actually reveal a lot about my personal experiences, my natural hair journey and also my transformation into a jewelry designer!
Me: Thank you so much for your time and I look forward to being your customer soon!
Allison: Again Jasmine it has been a pleasure meeting you!! And yes whenever you are ready I will hook you up with some unique pieces J.
