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

Hi Naomi, can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I recently launched a jewelry-based lifestyle brand, Saint & Society. What sets us apart from other brands is that we offer luxe, waterproof and tarnish-free pieces that require little to no maintenance. I believe that life is filled with little luxuries and that many of them can be affordable and attainable.

I’m most proud of being a Black and Latina woman-owned business and existing in a space where many people don’t believe I belong. I’m also proud of being a first-generation entrepreneur and my expansion plans for my brand.

I spent over ten years working in the retail beauty industry. I genuinely feel that those years significantly contributed to everything I know about creativity and commerce. It certainly wasn’t an easy path by any means to get to where I am. I am one of the first to graduate from college in my immediate family, and I carry that title with great responsibility. I overcome adversity and self-doubt by always surrounding myself with people who have been to places I want to go and have accomplished the things I aspire to do myself.

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned along the way is to expect and embrace change. Knowing how to pivot and take a different path is an essential quality that any aspiring entrepreneur should possess.

If there is one thing I want people to remember about me, I am an all-or-nothing person. I genuinely give everything in life my all or nothing at all.

What is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success is constantly pushing myself outside my comfort zone and reminding myself that I deserve to be at any level of success or in any room as much as the next person.

Growing up, a single mother raised me, and watching her first-hand juggle and balance many things showed me that I can do hard things. And not only can I do those hard things, but I genuinely believe I deserve all the recognition and success that comes with it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am not as outgoing as I’d like to be, I am much more of a homebody, but I am a foodie and I love to host people and take them to some of my favorite places.

Monday: Brunch at The Biscuit Bar, head over to The Star in Frisco to tour the Cowboys Training Stadium and then a little shopping at The Shops at Legacy and lunch at Roots Chicken Shak in Legacy Hall.

Tuesday: We’re heading to Fort Worth to give them the ultimate Texas experience at the Stockyards and to show them what they think Texas is, but isn’t actually. As for lunch we’re having Heim Barbecue to give them a taste of true Texas Barbecue. My favorite barbecue is Terry Blacks, however.

Wednesday: More of a chill day, but shopping of course at Highland Park Village and sightsee all the gorgeous houses Dallas has to offer. I truly feel Texas has some of the best home architecture and it’s one of my favorite things about living here. Brunch at Whistle Britches or Haywire and then a drive downtown to see the Dallas skyline at night.

Thursday: Take them on a little getaway, head to Choctaw Casino in Durant, OK for a little gambling and stay at their new Sky Tower resort for the night. While there, we must experience Guy Fieri’s restaurant.

Friday: A true girls day. Start with breakfast/brunch at Bread Winners, then a massage at The Spa at the Joule (one of the best) and lunch at The Henry. After a little light shopping in West Village, dinner and drinks at Harpers Dallas.

Saturday: In this heat, maybe hit a rooftop pool or dayparty at The Canvas Hotel, The Virgin Hotel or Waterproof at the Statler. Dinner reservations that evening at Carbone which is new to Dallas and a Michelin star rated restaurant.

Sunday: Brunch at Toulouse before their flight.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I always give the ultimate glory to God. I am deeply rooted in my spirituality; it is the epicenter of my life and the sole reason I have accomplished all I have.

My late mother. She was always my biggest cheerleader and encouraged me to show up as my authentic self no matter what. And even in her physical absence, she continues to be the source of my strength and perseverance.

Last but certainly not least, my best friend, life and business partner, and wife, Vee. She is the most encouraging being in my immediate corner. She pushes me to go after and supports all of my wild ideas and never misses an opportunity to remind me that I can do anything I believe I can do.

I also sincerely appreciate my amazing internet besties who, through social media, have experienced my highs and lows alongside me and always provide the utmost love and support as much as real-life friends.

Website: https://saintandsociety.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naomijaylifestyle/

Image Credits
Models: @themarmendoza, @iamlacorazon Photographer: @destyniepaige.branding Studio: @spaceonsouthside

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.