We had the good fortune of connecting with Sophie Simone Cortina and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sophie Simone, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My business started almost by accident. I’ve always felt inclined to create, ever since I was a child. One day, I dreamed a design, of a cactus bracelet. I followed that instinct and learned how the process of making hand made jewelry in Mexico was all about. what began as a hobby has grown into what is Sophie Simone Designs today. Over the years, SSD has grown organically and naturally. I feel grateful and privileged to have the opportunity to make a living from my passion. Everyday is a new adventure and the learning process keeps me inspired on a daily basis.
Now, we are about to open our very first Flagship boutique in Mexico City. Very exciting.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work is inspired by nature, moments and very vivid dreams. Eventually, they turn into tangible pieces of jewelry. I am not influenced by fashion trends or fashion magazines, which I consider distractions. Each collection is a reflection of my life, a humble attempt to honor the beauty that surrounds us. I am grateful every day for having the privilege of making a living doing what I love. I am particularly proud of the fact that I dared to believe and follow through with my ideas, despite many adversities. It was not always easy, believe me. As an entrepreneur, challenges become opportunities to find a solution. Sometimes plan B is better than what plan A was meant to be! I particularly enjoy the process of learning and growing with every step of the way. Making important decisions are moments that have allowed me to step away from the noise, dive deep within myself and find the answers that resonate within, despite the noise that is around. I believe the success of Sophie Simone Designs lies in its originality, authenticity and the fact that we have made a conscious decision to use ancient techniques and make every single piece by hand in Mexico City. In a world that seems to be moving faster and faster, I believe there is a sense a serenity and groundedness that our clients appreciate in our work.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Mexico City is experiencing a boom at the moment. Not a a dull moment in this effervescent city. I would start with a walk in the historic center, visiting the Zocalo, a few museums and having lunch at Azul Historico. Then visit to the museo de Antropologia and the Tamayo. Dinner at la Taverna followed by drinks at Hanky Panky (A fabulous speak easy) in Colonia Juarez. The next day a visit to Coyacan, Frida Kahlo’s house and the Bazar del Sabado in San Angel. Lunch at the magnificent San Angel In, an institution that never disappoints.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate this shoutout to my mother Michele, whose artistic talent inspired me since I was a child. Her strength, courage and joie de vivre continue to be a source of inspiration, day in and out!
In addition, I am very conscious of the fact that what I am able to do today, to follow my dreams and follow my own path as an artist and entrepreneur, was paved by all the women who came before me, whose voices and battles, have allowed me and many other women, to live out their dreams.
Website: www.sophiesimonedesigns.com
Instagram: @sophiesimonedesigns
Linkedin: Sophie Simone Designs
Facebook: Sophie Simone Designs
Image Credits
Fernando Etulain Monica Baute Sophie Simone Designs