We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jessica Chesson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jessica, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

When I started thinking about naming my brand, I knew it had to be something meaningful—something that would carry both history and legacy. The idea came to me one evening as I sat designing at my parent’s dining room table. Creativity flows through my veins quite naturally by way of my ancestors. I come from a long line of business owners, innovators and creatives but two in particular stood out: my grandmothers.

My grandmother Lillie was a seamstress. She had the most delicate hands, always working with fabric—transforming simple materials into beautiful, functional creations. I remember watching her work with such precision, each stitch telling a story. She was meticulous, focused, and had a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. Her sewing was never just a skill; it was an art. She believed in creating things that lasted, things that were practical but beautiful, and her creations were filled with love and purpose.

My grandmother Julia was a homemaker. She has a quiet strength, running her household with efficiency and warmth. The way she tended to her home—whether it was preparing a meal, working diligently in the community, or simply making sure everyone in her home was cared for—was its own form of artistry. There is an ease to her, a sense of order and calm that she brings to every corner of her home. Her world was built on nurturing, making sure that the small, everyday moments were meaningful.

Both women had a sense of resilience that I admire, and I wanted my brand to carry the same energy.

It felt right to name my brand after them, as a tribute to their influence on me, and on my view of the world. I took parts of their names and merged them, weaving together elements that felt both timeless and modern. Their stories and personalities became the foundation of my brand’s identity: a blend of tradition and innovation, elegance and practicality, warmth and strength.

The name wasn’t just a label; it became a part of who I am and what I wanted to stand for. Every design, every product, every decision made for the brand was an homage to the women who’d shown me the importance of living with purpose and passion.

Naming the brand after my grandmothers wasn’t just about honoring them, it was about carrying forward their legacy in a way that felt personal and true. The brand became a reflection of their influence, and in every step of its growth, I carry their spirit with me.

Jessica, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Jessica Chesson and I am the creative behind Lillie Julia Designs. I started my company in 2012 when I couldn’t find what I was looking for to accessorize everyday outfits. For me, Designing is instinctive. Growing up watching my mother and grandmothers who were all designers in their own right —transform everyday materials into something extraordinary, and I found that process fascinating. Their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and love for creating things that would last left a lasting impression.

Jewelry, to me, was a natural extension of this legacy. It’s personal, intimate, and often holds memories or sentiments that go beyond the object itself. I saw jewelry as a way to combine artistry with purpose—a way to create something meaningful, wearable, and timeless. Whether it’s a design passed down through generations or a piece that marks a special moment, jewelry has the power to connect people to their stories.

The decision to become a jewelry designer wasn’t a single moment but a gradual realization that this was how I could express myself, carry on the creative legacies of those before me, and make something that brings joy and meaning into people’s lives. For me, jewelry isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating pieces that evoke emotions, memories, and a sense of connection.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

The best source of new clients for me has definitely been working directly within the community—whether that’s through farmers markets, small business events, or other local gatherings. Engaging face-to-face allows me to build personal connections, trust, and relationships that turn into loyal clients. It’s also a great way to showcase what I do, answer questions on the spot, and tap into the local support network, which has been incredibly valuable for growth.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been focusing on being personable, reliable, and consistently meeting—or exceeding—my customers’ expectations and vision. Building trust through genuine connections and delivering on promises has led to strong word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business. I really believe in understanding each client’s unique needs and tailoring my approach to help them achieve their goals, which creates lasting relationships and organic growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://LillieJulia.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/lilliejuliadesigns
• Facebook: https://Facebook.com/lilliejulia10

Image Credits

L’Oreal Blanks

B Grant photography