Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayla Rodriguez

Kayla, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

I have always been someone who was good with my hands. Building and creating has always come to me naturally and was nurtured by my mother who, to keep me out of trouble, would always have us do arts and crafts. When I first moved to New York from Detroit 6 years ago, I never knew I’d be where I am today. Thanks to my wife who pushed me to be creative during the pandemic, wire wrapping became such a huge part of my life. Creating one of a kind sculptures and pieces using wire. First this was all for my own fun, and quickly turned into a business in which I have been able to create 10’s of thousands of pieces good folks all over the world!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

I’d like to think it’s been a smooth road because of the successes I have had. But there have been lots of downs. In New York when you vend full time the weather plays a big part of your business. I’ve had pieces destroyed in rain, wind, sunlight. I’ve had months where I made no money, where sales dropped and I couldn’t figure out why. I’ve had my social media be hacked, or been shadow banned where I just wanted to give up. I’ve had to have part time jobs just to sustain myself and my business. The biggest take away was that I never gave up and kept going.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

I am a professional jewelry designer. I specialize in creating pieces right on the spot for people. I’m most proud of creating Erykah Badu 4 Facecrowns, which is something I’m known for around New York. It’s like glasses without the lenses adorned with crystals, bone and restored vintage jewelry. What sets me apart from others is the experience I give to my clients. I am always willing to share resources and keep it 100% with them. My biggest saying is “I’m not wearing it, you are” I never want someone to leave my studio, or receive a piece that didn’t fit the vision they intended. And that’s what keeps them coming back. I am very much authentically me in my work while always allowing you to have you in there too.

What’s next?

My plans right now is to hire a team. Which I have already started doing. This will be my 5th year full time as an artist and I cannot be in two places at once (trust me I have tried). For the longest I never wanted to leave my baby in the hands of anyone, but to grow you have to trust others to get you there as well. So now I’m in the process of expanding my business across NYC in stores and as a street vendor.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://quelokaydesigns.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quelokaydesigns?igsh=d2Y4cm15eWpjcGoz
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/Quelokaydesigns/100087122551603/