We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Araujo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I wanted to create a jewelry line that embraced individuality and self-expression, creating seasonless collections that offer timeless pieces with quality, comfort, and sustainability in mind. I wanted to break away from the “fashion calendar” and just do fun drops to keep people interested. ​

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My approach to jewelry comes from my native roots, being born and partially raised in Venezuela, color and arquitecture play a big part in my design process. It is my intention to create statement pieces that serve as storytellers with the hope of giving the wearer confidence and encouragement to express themselves through fashion. I am dedicated to providing customers with well-made, quality jewelry that last. Raw materials are mostly manufactured in the U.S. and jewelry ships in 100% recycled/recyclable packaging. I’ve always been passionate about Fashion, I studied Fashion Design at Wade College and have been in the industry ever since. Being from a different country, I’ve had to work really hard to establish myself in the industry and making my brand stand out. I’ve learned many lessons along the way but I would say some of the most important ones is just being persistent and always keeping a clear view on the big picture. Is not always going to be easy and you will get 20 “NO’s” before you get a “YES”. I want people to get to know me and what my brand stands for, my line is made for anybody and everybody.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First things first …. FOOD! -Breakfast at Snooze AM. Eatery or La Duni -A little stroll at the DMA or Dallas contemporary -Some shopping at Bishop Arts. -Dinner at Paradiso or Sixty Vines. – Mexican dinner at Meso Maya -Sweet treats at Botolino gelato Some other sights and places to check out would be: -Dallas arboretum -Waco – Fort-worth Stockyards

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My success and everything I am today is thanks to my family.

Website: www.mafedesigns.com
Instagram: mafe_designs

Image Credits
Rebecca Firth and Dahlia Dandashi

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