We had the good fortune of connecting with Lindsey L. Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lindsey L., can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
In my previous life as a clothing designer I had become so disenchanted with the industry. Everything was robotic, very little creativity was focused on, rather it was a larger goal of bringing in big box store orders. It felt so disconnected from where I thought I was heading when I studied and entered the field. I could see how quickly it was changing and just how much the fashion machine was adding to pollution and waste for our fragile planet. Jewelry was something that had always interested me and honestly where I always believed I would end up. When I decided to start my business I was in NYC and had access to so many incredible learning facilities, production supply companies etc. I quickly learned that I could build my business exactly how I wanted. I could make small one of a kind pieces and intentional, small production lines out of recycled metals. Getting to create jewelry in my personal style and seeing that resonate with others is more fulfilling that I ever imagined possible.

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 opt for a more organic styling to my pieces. Jewelry design and production typically utilizes tons of math…which I am TERRIBLE at. The ancient process of lost wax casting is my preferred jewelry medium. It is easily accessible, doesn’t require tons of equipment and allows for completely unique shapes and styles. I love adding little details to my one of a kind pieces like little dot details on everything. When I started making jewelry (as more than just a hobby) it took me a while to find my path and style. It’s been a slow build but the further along my career takes me the more confident I feel in the direction I am going and that I have truly found the look and feel of a line that perfectly encapsulates my style. Throughout the past few years I have really grown confidence in making what I like rather than trying to fit my style into trends. It’s said that if you follow your passions and create from the heart that people will be drawn to that and all of the rest starts to fall into place. I can really see that reflected in my business and I continue to create on my own terms.

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.
I’ve only lived in Boulder for a couple of years and I am constantly finding new places to explore. Moving here from NYC one of the best parts of being in Colorado is the accessibility to the mountains. When visitors come I love taking them on hikes and introducing them to some of the many amazing local restaurants. A full day with me in Boulder would probably consist of a hike at Isabell Glacier, which I think has some of the most stunning views. Stopping on the way home in Nederland for some yummy pizza at Crosscut. Back down to Boulder for a drink at Chautauqua Dining Hall before a show at the auditorium. My favorite part about the concerts at Chautauqua is that you feel like you’re taking a step back in time.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve learned from so many people along the way. I was first introduced to the process of lost wax casting from my dad who has owned and operated his dental laboratory for the majority of my life. Making teeth and making jewelry are very similar! From there I’ve dabbled in so many different forms of jewelry making as a hobby while working a full time job. Throughout the years I was lucky enough to make custom pieces for family, friends and coworkers which allowed me to play around in various mediums. When I finally decided to take a couple of classes in wax carving and silver smithing, just for the fun of it, I was introduced to some amazing women designers who were so supportive. My biggest supporter is my husband who has cheered me on since my designing infancy. I would not have been able to even try to make this little business work without him in my corner.

Website: www.lindseylallen.com

Instagram: @lindseylallen

Other: Pinterest: Lindsey L. Allen

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