The first time I ever sat down with Andrea Del Bello to talk about her jewelry was for work. I had a feeling that her pieces would perfectly accompany the looks that my boss and I were styling at the time. That afternoon, I was completely blown away not only her talent, but by her incredible wealth of knowledge! From gems to chains to clasps – this was clearly someone who put tremendous thought into every little detail of her designs. I remember thinking, “How is it possible that she’s my age?” because her grace, maturity, knowledge, and humble approach to her designs seemed well beyond her years. Leaving your office job in corporate recruiting to follow your passion for jewelry design takes a certain amount of courage and I think Andrea’s story is so inspiring to anyone who’s been just “thinking” about making their dream job a reality.
Through Andrea’s passion for jewelry design and my love of styling, an awesome friendship evolved that I am so grateful for! I feel incredibly privileged to share this post with you today and I am confident that you, too, will fall in love with Andrea Del Bello Jewelry!
When did you first become interested in jewelry design?
Well, I’ve always loved jewelry. I can remember at an early age being dragged to tag sales and consignment shops with my mom – I can still see the terrible fluorescent lighting and smell the old musk when I think about it. But the groaning always subsided when I found the jewelry case. I would hyper-focus on the details and lines in the fine jewelry that was locked away, and then get lost in the costume jewelry. I would piece things together into endless possibilities until we left the store. Then I’d wreak havoc on my mom’s jewelry box…oops.
Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
Everywhere!! Literally. I saw a beautiful old fireplace recently and conceptualized a necklace in my head. Sometimes I think I’m crazy hahaha
Every time you talk to me about your jewelry, I get such an education (it’s amazing)! How did you learn all of this?
I was trained in silversmithing and other mediums at my high school, Cushing Academy, under the amazing Bob Johnson. Much of my knowledge started there as the arts program was incredible, expansive and inspiring. The rest I’ve learned on my own just through interest and research. With everything that I do, I like to make sure that I understand it thoroughly, especially if it’s a part of my business. There is always more to learn.
Do you have a favorite piece from your collection?
Oh…that’s so hard… That feels like having to pick a favorite child haha! Probably either the tiny shark tooth necklace, or the mother of pearl bar necklace since I am always wearing one of the two. I also love all the new bracelets and bangles – they all mix-and-match so well together!
What has been your biggest challenge in starting your own business?
Definitely juggling all sides of the business. I think when anyone starts their own business, or fantasizes about it, they picture just having to do the fun stuff all the time. While I definitely knew that that would not be the case, you’re still not prepared for how tough it can be. Yes, I get to design and create, but there’s also required maintenance that does really find it’s way into the daydream of working for yourself.
What’s one piece of advice that you would give to other women who are starting their own business?
Take the time to understand every aspect of your business. Make sure you learn how and why everything needs to be done in order to make your business legitimate. Taxes, legal things, financing… If something goes wrong, you want be able to understand the problem as quickly as possible, not waste more time playing catch-up and trying to understand the initial process. I felt that I could not take myself seriously as a business owner, nor would others, if I didn’t hold myself responsible for these fundamentals.
If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Jeans, loose t-shirt and sandals.
What women have inspired you?
My mom and my sister. My mom is the strongest woman I know. She is tough as nails but also fiercely loving and caring. My older sister is, in a word, amazing. She is an incredible mom, fabulous at her job, and the most genuinely kind person that I know. She’s one of those people that just makes you better when you’re with her.
What’s one thing that most people don’t know about you?
I hate being a muggle. And I’m a big nerd.
What are the 3 things that you absolutely, positively, cannot live without?
My phone(I hate this fact), a good cup of coffee and a great blazer. Am I lame?
Favorite indulgence?
Really good bread. And cheese. All cheese. All the time. It’s a problem.
What makes you smile the most?
My 2 year-old niece, Emma! She’s literally the cutest, funniest little human I’ve ever met and I smile just thinking about her.
If you could go back, what’s one piece of advice that you wish you had heard 5 years ago?
Just go to the damn gym. It really is NOT as far as you’re thinking it is. Also, that guy you’re “dating” is a waste of your time.
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