THE SPLASH INTERVIEW : Our monthly blog featuring amazing women doing some incredible things. We hope you enjoy reading about them!
— Anjanette
BIO:Julez started her creative journey in 2003 in San Diego, California. As the Director of a technology company, she developed a strong intellect for business acumen. Her sense of ambition and creative drive was redirected when a dear friend, who later lost his life to cancer, gave her a charm. “He taught me to capture life and run with it,” says Julez. Julez’s creative exodus started when she converted the charm into her first design. Since then Julez Bryant has grown from modest beginnings to one of the most sought after fine jewelry brands.
Julez Bryant was built on the foundation and belief that women should always feel empowered and sexy in what they wear. Twelve years later, Julez and her skilled and seasoned team continue to hand-forge each piece in her design studio along the Southern California coastline. The collection combines Julez love of bold shapes with luxe materials such as 14k and 18k rose, yellow, and white gold with a purposeful sprinkling of diamonds and semi-precious stones.
As a natural and ambitious risk taker, Julez continues to grow the company by adding new branches to the brand. Julez daughter, Gia, joined her side three years ago. Together they created their newest design venture, “The Metro Collection”. This addition is Julez and Gia’s homage to September 11th while exploring the light-filled windows of the NYC skyline. Together, the mother-daughter duo maintains a hands-on approach to all customers and the retailers carry the brand. Julez and Gia aren’t here to be a ‘one hit wonder’; their mission is to create a jewelry box that lasts a lifetime.
Each season, Julez challenges herself to create pieces that are both relevant and fresh, while still maintaining a sense of timelessness and class. Truly one of a kind, Julez continues to cultivate a jewelry line that inspires women. Julez invites you to follow her creative journey, as it promises to be an exciting one.
with
Hometown
Portland, Oregon
Current residence
Carlsbad, CA
Type of business
Couture Jewelry Designer
Years in the business
16
Favorite crystal/gem
Pink Diamond
Favorite piece of jewelry
Wide YG cuff with fire opal from my grandma
Best vacation spot
Madrid, Spain
Favorite fitness activity
Running
Drink by day/night
Sparkling Water/Scotch single malt
5 things you can’t live without:
•My family
•My business
•My amazing staff
•Travel
•Sketch book!
What keeps you grounded?
Values
What are you binge watching right now?
Project Runway
Hometown
Portland, Oregon
Current residence
Carlsbad, CA
Type of business
Couture Jewelry Designer
Years in the business
16
Favorite crystal/gem
Pink Diamond
Favorite piece of jewelry
Wide YG cuff with fire opal from my grandma
Best vacation spot
Madrid, Spain
Favorite fitness activity
Running
Drink by day/night
Sparkling Water/Scotch single malt
5 things you can’t live without:
•My family
•My business
•My amazing staff
•Travel
•Sketch book!
What keeps you grounded?
Values
What are you binge watching right now?
Project Runway
What do you love most about your business?
My staff. Over the past 16 years I have grown my team by selecting individuals that are hard working and share my vision. Results come from that and it feeds my soul to watch them grow. I’m amazed in each of my staff’s commitment level. I feel so blessed by our drive as a team.
Tell us about the journey of how you built your business. How many years did it take you to get to where you are today?
It’s taken me 16 years to get to this point. You can’t exhale, but maybe for a minute and then you must keep going. Look past your failures and never give up. Having the wisdom to have people that have an interest and commitment to the business.
What words of advice can you give other women entrepreneurs?
There are a lot of things to say here…First, make sure that you start with good business practices. Second, don’t owe more than you own. Third, always choose vendors, clients and customers that share your values.
If you’re not a good employee then your will not be a good entrepreneur.
Learn something new everyday.
Anything else you would like to share with our readers?
I love Gem Water and how they bridged industries in a cleaver, beautiful and functional way. It’s an example of people thinking outside of the norm and creating great relationships with people in different industries. Always look ahead and take risks.
I love my jewelry family and find so much inspiration from my Grandmother.