thumb image

Minnesota-made jewelry company Farahbean was started by two friends with a mutual love for design and fashion. Founders Stephanie Nelson and Kristi Parkinson shared with us their story and the inspiration behind their line.

 


How did your partnership come about?

We became friends first; we each had two kids under the age of 2½. We both chose to stay home to raise our children and realized that first, we both loved art and design and second, neither of us could find any daily-wear jewelry we really liked. A nurse caring for Stephanie’s father during cancer treatment taught us the basics of jewelry making. As our skills progressed and our designs evolved, friends — and strangers! — began approaching us about the jewelry we were wearing, often buying the pieces on the spot! Our avocation became our vocation.

What is the driving philosophy behind Farahbean?

Life well lived. A balance between family, friends and work. Work needed to be something rewarding, something that expressed our spirit and creativity in a natural, classy, unpresumptuous way. We’ve learned we want to bring beautyand originality to everyday design. Customer service is also very important. We treat people the way we’d want to be treated.

From where do you get your inspiration?

Our main inspiration comes from our love of the outdoors and our appreciation of classic, comfortable style. We incorporate natural stones, shed antler tips, and rocks harvested from Lake Superior and Lake of the Woods. Our families have helped along the way: drilling stones, agates, antlers, etc. This is very much a family affair.

How would you describe the Farahbean look?

Farahbean’s style is always evolving, but one constant is our desire to mix sophistication with a relaxed, updated look. For example, you won’t find a strand of freshwater pearls strung on wire. You’ll find the freshwater pearls hand tied on leather with perhaps some suede and maybe a chain tassel. You can wear our pieces with jeans and a t-shirt or to a black-tie event. We like to give women the option to layer pieces, too. Versatility is key.

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

Grow organically. Seek and welcome advice from others in the field. Listen to what your customers want. Believe in yourself and your product. Trust your gut and go with it! Anything is possible.

 

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This