Meet Lynn Harris of Bourgeois Designs

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Absolutely! For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved jewelry, accessories, hair, makeup, nail polish and pretty much fashion and beauty in general. Like many little girls, I loved to play dress up in my mother’s shoes and accessories. As I got older and actually began wearing jewelry and shopping for myself, I quickly learned certain metals didn’t agree with my sensitive skin. I had to be very careful with earrings in particular, but bracelets and necklaces containing large amounts of metal also irritated my skin. This made it challenging for me to accessorize and experiment with fashion jewelry.

Instead of just buying what suited my taste, I would stand in stores strategically analyzing jewelry to find pieces with the least amount of metal but were still bold, beautiful and made a statement. This took the joy out of jewelry shopping so out of frustration I decided, “I’ll just make my own.” I visited a craft supply store, purchased jewelry making supplies, took all of my jewelry apart and re-designed it the way I liked. I’ve always been a creative person with an eye for detail so designing jewelry is a gift that came naturally for me. When I found myself constantly thinking about jewelry and what I wanted to make next and began getting positive feedback and requests from others, I decided to turn that passion into my brand. Just like that, Bourgeois (ˈbo͞oZHē) Designs was established in June of 2012.

Though my creative talents have always come naturally, my formal education was a choice. You see, natural talent coupled with education creates a force to be reckoned with. As a first generation college graduate, I support higher education and believe in the value of our HBCU’s. I’m a proud alumna of Southern University and Agricultural & Mechanical College in Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Geaux Jags!!!). I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of Science in Human Resource Management.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As with any small business, it takes time to build, grow and develop a consistent customer base. You’ll always be met with obstacles and challenges but if you “Hold the vision, Trust the process,” you’ll step into your destiny in HIS time. I believe when you’re passionate about something and enjoy it as much as I enjoy this craft, it helps smooth out any bumps you encounter in the road along the way.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Currently, my designs can be purchased online and at private shopping events. All designs are handmade and I focus on producing high-quality pieces customers will enjoy. Most of my designs feature beading, a popular and timeless look. I don’t focus too much on trends or compare my brand to others. I prefer to focus on creating pieces that are always in style and make a statement. My main priority is to remain a notable and respectable brand customers can trust and that begins with maintaining the highest level of quality and detail in my work. I also design custom pieces and have designed for weddings, fashion shows and photoshoots. My brand is for women, men and children and I design necklaces, bracelets and earrings. I’m most proud of the fact that I’m truly a self-taught artist and I can now share my passion with others.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
One thing about fashion is, although trends may change, fashion is forever! I can’t imagine fashion without jewelry. There’s just something about pretty jewelry that makes you feel good, you know. My vision for the road ahead is guided by Luke 12:48 (NLT) “Much is required from those to whom much is given, and much more is required from those to whom much more is given.” I’ve been Blessed with a gift and it is my duty and honor to share it with others. More beautiful, sparkly creations are on the horizon for Bourgeois Designs. My line has been carried by a few boutiques locally and in Houston and I plan to partner with more retailers/boutiques in the future to expand locally and nationally.

Contact Info:

• Email: bourgeoisdesigns1@gmail.com
• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BDJewelryDesigns
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bourgeoisdesigns/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BourgeoisDesigns
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/BourgeoisDesign
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/jewelryluver/