We recently connected with Jessenia Landrum and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Jessenia thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?
Success, I’ve come to realize, requires a few key things—and I’m still gathering more gems along the way.
First, you have to love what you do and appreciate the journey it takes you on. Your passion is like a relationship: it won’t always be easy. There will be challenges, but you have to choose it every day. The real magic lies in the journey—the people, places, and opportunities that come along the way, often more fulfilling than the destination itself.
Jevela has taken me around the world. There were moments when I thought I’d found my dream job, only to be let go and find myself back with Jevela. Watching it grow through those ups and downs made me realize—this is my true love.
Second, people skills are essential. You can’t do this alone. Growth happens through others, and I’m endlessly grateful for the incredible people who’ve supported and taught me along the way. Their insights have taken me places I couldn’t have reached on my own.
Finally, persistence is key. Every setback is a signal to adjust. Disappointments and “no’s” will happen, but they’re often opportunities in disguise—chances to learn, grow, and prepare for what’s ahead.
Above all, enjoy the ride. The real gems are found along the journey.
Jesseniq, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Jessenia Landrum began her journey in jewelry making in 2016, starting with an internship for a Brooklyn-based designer. Immersed in the hands-on aspects of the craft, she discovered her passion for creating meaningful pieces. Her early experience as a bench jeweler allowed her to sharpen her skills in handcrafting and refine her understanding of materials and techniques through metalsmithing classes.
In 2019, Jessenia launched Jevela, transforming her vision into a reality. Initially focused on handmade pieces, Jevela has grown into a thriving Demi-Fine and Fine jewelry brand known for its artistry and attention to detail. A pivotal moment in Jessenia’s career came when she joined the Natural Diamonds Council EDDI program in collaboration with Lorraine Schwartz, which deepened her expertise in designing high-quality, intricate jewelry.
Jessenia’s journey has been marked by exploration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Her work has taken her across the globe, connecting her with diverse artisans and clients while creating custom designs for life’s most cherished moments. Through Jevela, Jessenia has cultivated a brand that celebrates artistry, craftsmanship, and meaningful connections in the jewelry community.
Have you ever had to pivot?
In 2020 Jevela experienced a complete rebranding. I changed the logo, company colors, and our overall messaging. After holding a market research group at the top of the year, I realized Jevela was coming off as a luxury brand but I really wanted the company to feel approachable and communal. So I started with changing our colors and logo design. Then shortly after, we were hit with COVID-19. The brand was originally inspired by travel but then I was hit with the thought of “what happens when you can’t travel anywhere?”. This made me realize that we are always on a journey anyways, the one through life. As we live, learn, and explore who we want to become. That was a major shift for the brand that ended up feeling more aligned with who I am.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
I just started being me and showing the journey. Its not always polished and well put together- actually more times its not. This really helped me connect with people organically. I’m not really worried about the numbers here, the people that get it, get it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.IamJevela.com
- Instagram: @Iamjevela / @jevela
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamjevela
Image Credits
orange background- @allyschmaling
Fine jewelry pieces- one with me putting a necklace on and the other diamond stud ear- @kat_concep