With Hollywood A-Lister actors, such as Sofia Vergara on her client list, her designs in stores such as Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Bloomingdales and boutiques all over the United States, Kendra Scott has come a long way from her modest jewelry design studio in Austin, Texas and the $500 she used to start her first collection. At the end of September, the doors open at the new Kendra Scott New Orleans boutique on Magazine Street. The showroom comes complete with the company’s signature Color Bar, perfect for brides and their maids to mix, match and create the perfect jewelry for any Big Day. Polished, fresh, colorful and classic with an edge, Scott’s designs are versatile and can be worn for years to come. Scott also has stood firm on her commitment to charity, with countless in-store events benefitting local nonprofit organizations and giveaways to local and national charities to the tune of having given back $1 million since this time last year.
We caught up with the Scott via email between store openings to get the scoop on her wares, the company’s philanthropic plans in New Orleans and why she is bringing her baubles to the Big Easy.
Let Them Eat Cake: What made you decide to open a showroom in New Orleans?
Kendra Scott: I have been longing to open a store in New Orleans for quite some time. The energy, the friendliness, the support of local businesses…it all fits so well with our brand’s core values. I have already fallen in love with the charming community and all of its people, and I am so thrilled we can soon call New Orleans one of our many beloved homes.
LTEC: Having lived in Austin during your ascendance in the jewelry world, I have several pieces and have long admired the distinct look and reasonable price points of your work. I’ve spotted your designs on more than one gal about New Orleans, but the brand will of course be new to a lot of locals. How do you describe it to those who aren’t familiar?
KS: That is so wonderful to hear! It is loyal fans like you who supported me, during my early years of business, that helped make my brand what it is today. For all of our newer fans, welcome to the Kendra Scott family! We are a brand of big dreams, colorful confidence and inspired design. I design beautiful, quality jewelry for the woman who isn’t afraid to turn heads!
LTEC: How would you describe your design process?
KS: I find inspiration in everything, from landscapes and architecture, to people and cultures. By collaborating with my fantastic design team, I create new collections that translate that inspiration into gorgeous pieces of Kendra Scott jewelry. Every piece is intricately and artfully designed in our studio in the heart of Austin, Texas and created to be worn and loved through the seasons.
LTEC: Can you talk a little about your new Mystic Bazaar line, its inspiration and what you have planned for it?
KS: My new Fall 2015 collection, Mystic Bazaar, is a blend of on-trend modernism and eclectic charm. Inspired by my travels to Dubai, this collection brought to life that sense of adventure and wonder I felt when exploring this dazzling city and culture. With an emphasis on natural stones, delicate layers and exquisite details, I have to say this collection is one of my favorites so far.
LTEC: What are some of your favorite materials to work with and why?
KS: I love working with organic stones and materials whenever possible. The natural variegations bring a special, unique quality to each piece. My most recent favorite is the natural Howlite stone featured in our Mystic Bazaar Collection. Completely free of treatments or dyes, this marble-like stone is a timeless piece that goes with almost everything in my closet!
LTEC: Can you share what you have planned for the new New Orleans showroom?
KS: The interior design of our new Market Street store is inspired by many of my personal loves, from the fixtures to the furniture. I wanted to make sure that entering our New Orleans store would be an extension of being invited into my home, so this store will certainly have a very personal look and feel.
LTEC: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
KS: At Kendra Scott, we care deeply about our local communities and I am so thrilled to get more involved in New Orleans. I founded my company on the pillars of Family, Fashion and Philanthropy, believing that giving back is the truest form of success. I am excited to share that we are planning to give back to local organizations in a big way!
Stay tuned to LTEC for information on the grand opening (which will be closer to Christmas), as well as in-store events.
P.S. Put on your wedding dress (or borrow one) and head down to the French Quarter Sept. 19 for the Creativity Collective’s Third Annual Bridal Crawl charity pub crawl. The event raises money for Gradeuxity, an education initiative program for graduating seniors offering a life-skills book with information about applying for college, job hunting, banking, traveling, apartment rental and more.
