Love at First Sight: Erin Hakansson

Today’s love at first sight post is slightly different for me. Rather than focusing on one item, I’d like to focus on a shop owner- Erin Hakansson. Erin makes one of a kind jewelry using sterling silver and 14k gold, as well as precious stones. She got her start by creating jewelry for her bridal party because she wanted them to have a “personal stamp.” LOVE that!

Here are some of Erin’s pieces that I am head over heels in love with!

This necklace would be the perfect ‘something blue’. And for $300 it totally doesn’t break the bank! The coolest thing about this necklace? It’s reversible! So one day you can wear the blue, the next the silver. I’m lazy, so a two in one piece is a definite must for me!

These earrings would be the perfect touch for your bridesmaids, as they are totally wearable again and again! I love the simplicity of them. And the best part? They are $35! Seriously, what a steal!

If you live in California you can find a sampling of Erin’s jewelry at these stores.

Erin was kind enough to answer some questions, enjoy!

1. What was the very first piece you ever created?

The first pieces I designed were for the bridesmaids in our wedding.  I thought it would be fun to select the stones and design something that matched their personalities and the style of their dresses.  It allowed me to add a more personal touch to the bridesmaids’ ensembles and incorporate my love of creation in to something so dear to my heart. 

2. When did you realize this was something you wanted to do for a living?

I decided to start a namesake collection during our honeymoon.  I had so much fun creating the bridesmaids’ pieces and they were so well-received that I just wanted to continue to create and share it with the world. 

3. What is your favorite material(s) to work with?

My favorite stone is the London Blue Topaz because it is the perfect deep hue of the ocean, a blue that sparkles in the sun and goes with almost anything you wear.  

4. If a bride were to ask you for the perfect piece, which one would that be and why?

The perfect piece for a bride is one that is custom, a special piece that only she will have.  Each dress and each bride is unique, and the jewelry should be as well.  I have designed jewelry for brides using freshwater pearls, rock quartz crystals, sterling silver and gold filled beads, each one creating an entirely different look for a new personality.

5. Which is your favorite piece in your collection?

Right now, my favorite piece is the pyrite coin and gold tag reversible necklace. I love the dichotomy of the feathery gold tags with the chunkier pyrite coins.  You can choose which side to wear to match your mood or occasion, these days it is all about multi-function and ease. 
http://www.erinhakansson.com/collections/necklaces/products/pyrite-and-gold-tag-reversible-necklace

Thanks Erin!