We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lisa Zhen. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lisa below.
Alright, Lisa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
I was always “crafty” as a teenager and used to craft different things (Jewelry, sand art terrariums, candles, etc), but in my mid 20’s I met a Native American jewelry maker named Yellowbird, and he taught me how to make traditional Native American Buffalo bone chokers. I owned a record store at the time and started selling them in the store, then expanded to creating Rosary Necklaces and it took off from there. I started doing pop up shows about 8 years ago and I absolutely love to create jewelry and accessories!!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I have grown in so many ways in my design sensibilities and love to create customs for my clients. I speak to them about what kind of piece they are envisioning, what the occasion is, what colors, if they have a theme…and then I create 2-3 designs for them to choose from. I never worry about it if the client decides on a specific one, because I am able to put out whatever they don’t want on my tables. I worked retail my entire life up until 3 years ago, so doing my shows is my joy! I get to hang out and engage with people and sell my passion…my creations!!
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
My worst show day ever was when a torrential downpour came upon us suddenly and my tent filled with so much water it literally collapsed on me and every piece of jewelry I had. I had to throw the tent out, throw every piece of jewelry into a bag and rush home to dry everything, remove every price sticker, repair everything that had been wet or ruined and go out and buy it a new tent for a very big show I had the next day. I was devastated, but my husband helped me dry everything, calmed me down and went out with me to get a new tent. Needless to say I went to the show the next day and had a perfect day!!
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding thing is seeing the joy when someone finds that perfect piece!! I love when clients return and tell me how much they loved what they bought!! I had a bride buy 12 necklaces as bridesmaid gifts for her party, and a Bride purchase a necklace that she wore with her wedding dress!!
Contact Info:
- Website: WearableZen.com
- Instagram: @wearablezen
- Facebook: Facebook.com/Wearablezen