Q: What inspired you to start LYRA & LUXE?
A: I was inspired as a college graduate, entering the corporate world. I wanted a briefcase or workbag that showed I was a serious and smart professional, but I didn't want to spend a lot of money on multiple bags to go with my different outfits or different work environments. I wanted to invest in one nice bag that could transform with my style on a daily basis.
Q: What's behind the name LYRA & LUXE?
A. Honestly, I just wanted a name that had a nice ring to it and that exuded sophistication, transformation, and overall fashion style.
Q: What is your favorite LYRA & LUXE color combination?
A. I love Sienna, I wanted it to have its moment. You can't go wrong with the Sienna on Sienna style-way. It's such an understated, but elegant style. I also love the Sienna with Black, so versatile. And lastly, I think every woman should own a Red bag. What a statement piece.
Q: What does a great workday look like for you?
A. Learning. You can't get a better education than starting your own business, and being willing to get your hands dirty. I've boot-strapped everything, from the prototypes, to the product images, learning photoshop (sort of), and building out the website myself. It's all very challenging, and even sometimes frustrating, but incredibly rewarding learning to do everything myself. A true sense of investment, or "sweat equity" as they say.
Q: What's next for the company? What are you currently working on?
A: Now that we've launched the LUXE Collection, there will be so many more collections and colorways to come. Let's get bold! Fun colors, new textures!
Q: What advice would you give to your younger self?
A: Be patient, you don't know it all. I was doing great work in all my jobs, but I always found a way to complain, and it usually had something to do with thinking I knew it all, or knew more than my boss. Even if it was true in some cases, I would tell myself to just have a better attitude about it.
Q: Outside of work, what activities or hobbies help you recharge?
A: I am a beach girl, through and through. Nothing brings more more joy and feeling recharged than a day at the beach. If it's too chilly for the beach, I enjoy walking outdoors, shooting hoops, or going to the gym.
Q: What does your morning routine look like?
A: I sleep as long as I can, no alarm. I usually wake up around 6:30. Enjoy a cup of coffee with my husband before he leaves for work, and then get my day started.
Q: What motivates you when energy or confidence is low?
A: My husband is the best motivation. He gives the best pep-talks and is always so positive. He inspires me in every way possible.
Q: What's a small, everyday thing that brings you a lot of joy?
A: Dinner time. Dinner in our household is a very special time. We cook at home, either tag-teaming on who's cooking and who's cleaning, or some nights we do both together. It provides an incredible teamwork environment. When we sit down for dinner, we are both incredibly present and have some of our deepest conversations. Not everyone gets to experience those moments and I don't take it for granted.