Meet Stephanie Fields | Jewelry Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Fields and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
My success as a jewelry designer is dependent on getting to know my clients, and the story they have and are willing to share with me. People are coming to me to create a memory they have of the mountains. Sometimes it’s a happy memory, but sometimes it’s a bittersweet one. I love that people allow themselves to be vulnerable and share their stories, because it helps me understand, and create a perfect piece of jewelry that is tailored just for them. It’s so rewarding to create a memory for someone that is long lasting and wearable. Every time they look down at their mountain ring, they are reminded of their story. Being able to provide clients with a safe space to share, and be vulnerable, and then take that to create something wearable is truly a joy.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have always been creative. I loved art in school and took drawing lessons at the local rec center for fun when I was growing up. After bouncing between majors in college, I finally found graphic design and never looked back. Fast forward 11 years, and I wanted to create with my hands instead of the keyboard and mouse. I went back to school to learn metalsmithing and stone setting. I love the creativity that jewelry making provides, and the challenge of working with gemstones. After a lucky break, I quickly amassed several wholesale clients, in addition to my regular customers. It snowballed, which was great, but eventually it took a toll on my personal life. Owning your own business is not as glamorous as you would think. You have LESS free time than before, and you are always working. Last year, I actually had to take a step back from the wholesale jewelry side of my business because it became too much – both for my mental health and fingertips! I started to fall out of love with making jewelry. A year removed from that, I’m learning to find a better balance between work and personal life. I’m taking on projects that push me creatively, and I’m truly enjoying making jewelry again. I’m back to where it all started. Telling people’s stories through jewelry. While it almost killed me, I am thankful for the wholesale experience. It taught me want I want out of my jewelry business, and exactly what I don’t. I’m happy doing fewer, more custom pieces for my clients. It’s more fulfilling, and more meaningful to me.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I LOVE history, so I’d start by taking them to Union Station, and exploring all the old buildings in the area. Then pop on over for lunch at Los Chingones (my old hood before moving to the burbs!). I just can’t resist good tacos! Speaking of history, the prohibition-era Cruise Room is the perfect spot to top off a day in Denver with a fancy cocktail drink. And, while the city is fun, I’d definitely want a day of hiking in the foothills, followed by an afternoon picnic at Acreage out in the burbs. Pairing cider with views is high on my list!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Oh man. The list of people to shout out is long! Let’s start with my mom, who has inspired both of my brands, and is no longer here on earth. She was my biggest champion and supporter, and was always pushing me to be my best. She was curious about my work, and always had the perfect piece of advice. She and my dad instilled a strong work ethic in me, and I’m so glad they did. Being a business of one requires insane amounts of hard work. I’ve also been really lucky to have great mentors in my career. Early on, as a graphic designer, I had people around me who saw my potential and really pushed me to be better. I think back specifically to a digital agency I worked at (I know, not related to jewelry), and to see a woman CEO was so inspiring. I owe a lot of my business acumen to her, and a lot of my creative growth to my then, Creative Director. That experience has carried me through my own endeavors both in graphic design and in the world of jewelry. My husband. Biggest supporter (besides my mom upstairs) by far. He is constantly challenging me in all the good ways, ultimately creating a space for me to grow. He’s been an absolute rock when I needed him the most, and I’m not sure I’d still be going if it wasn’t for him.

Website: www.lovelybaubles.com / www.lovesaintk.com

Instagram: @_lovelybaubles_ / @lovesaintk

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovelybaubles / https://www.facebook.com/lovesaintk

Image Credits
All photos taken by me and my husband, Jesse.