Raegen Knight Jewelry
Irvine, California
Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:
Raegan Knight
Photo Credit: Kaelin Photography
I'm a metalsmith. I design and fabricate jewelry using mostly reclaimed metal. I try to design pieces that blur the line between modern and classic, so that they can be worn for years without looking dated.
Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?
I'm using my name, which I actually hate. I couldn't come up with a good name when I first started, so I just used my name. I didn't think I'd still be doing this five years later, so I definitely wish I'd found a better name at the beginning.
What is your signature style / item? How did it become so?
I sell more stacking rings than anything else, mainly because they're so easy to mix in with existing jewelry.
What makes your business unique to the industry?
Like any handmade product, I think my individual style and methods of fabrication make my pieces unique. Handmade objects have a genuine warmth, that goes along with all of the charming variations in appearance - mass-produced objects can't replicate that.
Photo Credit: Mol Goodman
What’s been your biggest roadblock when it comes to business and how have you been able to overcome?
My biggest challenge is definitely production. I make everything myself and I also sell wholesale, so I need to be careful not to burn out. It's an ongoing issue and I definitely haven't mastered it yet.
How has your business had to adapt amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic? What are you doing to navigate the situation?
I've actually been busier during the pandemic, which was a real surprise. I'm happy to see people supporting local, handmade businesses
What is your favorite part of what you do?
My favorite thing to do is design new pieces and make them. After they're made, I wear them and decide if it's a viable design or not.
What is your *must do* local activity?
Oliboli Donuts in Tustin is a great spot for a coffee and donut treat
Where to find Raegen Knight Jewelry:
Website: https://raegenknight.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raegenknight
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raegenknightjewelry