Point of View: Melissa Joy ManningFour words describe Melissa Joy Manning: Joyful, Spiritual, Unique and Empowering."I like to challenge the ideals of traditional jewelry by blending conventional materials to create neoteric pieces," says the designer. "I believe in the permanence of the piece, and one of my greatest inspirations is in knowing that people will treasure their jewelry, hopefully for generations." Her unique style of expression is influenced by her passion for travel, art and culture. Melissa studied traditional silversmithing at the Instituto de Allende in San Miguel de Allende (Mexico) and European design principles at the University of Barcelona. Melissa's deepest inspiration is drawn from reclaimed and recycled pieces that she uses to create her one-of-a-kind designs. Drawing from indigenous and non-Western cultures, this collection reflects the belief of the spiritual value of talismans. Like any other entrepreneur she found herself questioning the idea of diving in wholeheartedly into her new jewelry design business that she started in 1997. While idly watching “Just Shoot Me”, a sitcom she had never seen before, she noticed one of the show’s models sauntering across the screen wearing a Melissa Joy Manning necklace. That was her sign. "It was the ultimate sign; it showed me that the business was meant to be." Melissa says, "I believe everything happens for a reason, and if you pay attention, there are signs everywhere. I've been thankful ever since for having the courage to pursue this, because I love what I do." Melissa is immensely proud of basing her business in the U.S. and is ardent about keeping her production facilities on-shore. And while the materials she uses can be found worldwide, she only purchases her materials from domestic suppliers. Each piece is handmade in her Oakland, California studio by her in-house production staff. "We are so fortunate to be able to do what we love and make a living through our art. We are immensely grateful that we are blessed with the ability to pursue our passion," Melissa says. She credits her success to staying true to herself and to the amazing support of her friends, family and co-workers. "I truly enjoy what I do, and am so amazed that I get to do it- especially with such an amazing group of people." Melissa Joy Manning jewelry can be found in over 250 high-end boutiques and specialty department stores worldwide. Her pieces have been featured on numerous magazine covers and fashion spreads, in feature films, television programs and music videos. Melissa's celebrity clients include Jennifer Aniston, Sandra Bullock, Sheryl Crow, Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Debra Messing, P!nk, Jessica and Ashlee Simpson, Usher, and Catherine Zeta-Jones. |
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