Fairview & Co Design
Chandler, Arizona
Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:
Edie: Fairview & Co Design
My name is Edie Klein, the owner and creator of Fairview & Co Design. I repurpose vintage barn wood that’s been salvaged from my great-uncle’s barn into new jewelry. I got my start making beaded jewelry in 2003 when a co-worker taught me the basics. I’ve loved jewelry since I was a kid and was so excited to learn everything I could to make my own creations.
In 2016, I was looking for a new medium that would allow me more creative control over my designs when my dad mentioned that my great-uncle’s barn was slated to be torn down. Woodworking was not something that I had previously considered, but it intrigued me. I made a few prototypes and was instantly hooked. I now cut, sand and seal each piece by hand. It's time intensive work, but so rewarding when I assemble it into a finished piece.
Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?
Fairview was a dairy my grandfather started in the early 1930s. When he was in his late forties, he felt the calling to go to college to become a minister and sold the diary to follow his dream. Though my grandfather only had an 8th grade education, he didn’t let that stop him. Fairview & Co Design is a nod to my grandfather’s can-do attitude, which I hope to carry on.
What is your signature style / item? How did it become so?
My signature item is a set of long rectangle earrings, they’re a great statement piece without being too chunky or heavy. It’s been a popular item with all ages, because they look great on everyone.
What makes your business unique to the industry?
My business is unique in our industry because I use vintage barn wood, it’s not an easy material to work with but provides so much character to my finished pieces.
What's been your biggest roadblock when it comes to business and how have you been able to overcome?
My biggest roadblock has been fighting my own self doubt/imposter syndrome. The feeling that everyone else has a better product and there’s too much competition so no one will see me and my jewelry. I try to focus on my own message and not pay attention to what everyone else is doing. We all know behind every perfect looking photo on Instagram is a pile of laundry or a child that needs attention. If you stay true to yourself, and your business, others will find you.
How has your business had to adapt amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic? What are you doing to navigate the situation?
I’ve been really focused on in-person markets for the past year and have had to switch gears to selling online. I also recently started selling my jewelry in a brick and mortar shop for the first time.
What is your favorite part of what you do?
I love being out in my garage cutting and sanding the wood. It’s amazing to watch a piece of old lumber be transformed into new jewelry. And even though the wood is over 70 years old, it still smells incredible when I cut into it.
What is your *must do* local activity?
My family and I love to eat at local restaurants, our favorite is Rosa’s Mexican Grill. It’s been serving Mexican food for over 25 years and has the best salsa in the Valley!
Where to find Fairview & Co Design:
Website: www.etsy.com/shop/fairviewandcodesign and www.shopmadewithlovemarket.com/collections/fairview-co-design
Instagram: fairviewandcodesign
Facebook: Fairview & Co Design