What I love most about this community is that I get to hear women tell me their personal success stories. Latonya Moore reached out to me a few weeks ago and told me about her business, Alexandria’s Authentically Made Jewelry.
We all need something that can serve as a source of strength for us and her pieces definitely hit the mark. She allowed me to choose one of her bracelets (which can be customized with any word you choose) and I chose “strength” as a quiet reminder of what I’m made of on the days when I don’t feel so strong.
And she has been so gracious as to host a giveaway! Check out her brief interview below and then scroll to the Rafflecopter below to win one of her pewter and leather cuffs, a $26 value!
YML: Have you always been into jewelry/accessories? What’s your favorite piece in the Authentically Made store?
LATONYA: Actually, I was not a jewelry person as far as wearing it myself. I am a more laidback, no fuss girl. With that being said, I do have a few favorite pieces that I wear almost daily. My favorite earrings are the Believe copper ones and I rotate between the Whatever 4:8 and Diligence bracelets.
YML: What was the inspiration behind Authentically Made? How long have you been doing it?
LATONYA: Although I wasn’t into jewelry, my oldest daughter is very much. The first earrings I made were for her in 2012. My daughters are the inspiration for Alexandria’s Authentically Made Jewelry. I know the name is long, but Alexandria is the middle name of both of my daughters. I wouldn’t be creating jewelry if it was not for their inspiration.
YML: What are your goals for Authentically Made in the future?
LATONYA: My goals for my business is to continue glorifying God in my work. This is extremely important to me. I would also like for my pieces to be on as many ears, wrists, and necks as possible 
I am working to make the online site to be more visible on the web. Over the next year or so, my goal is to be a part of some of the juried events in my area.
YML: Do you have any advice for women who’d like to start their own business?
LATONYA: This isn’t my first business so with that being said, I would tell women to keep pushing ahead to she finds the thing that truly fits her. Creative entrepreneurs should always have at least one person in their circle that gets them. It can get lonely, but building a network really does help. I have found it useful to be in contact with other entrepreneurs whether they are artists, writers, etc.
The are cute. Thank you for sharing