Have you always known deep inside that you wanted to be a jewellery designer?

I’ve always loved the craft of jewellery, but when I started my career in Marketing I never thought I would abandon it 10 years later to start my own jewellery brand. While in my early thirties I decided to take some time off work and reconsider my priorities and goals in life, which were in conflict with the job I had. During that time I kept myself busy by taking some jewellery classes and gifting the pieces to my friends. One of them asked to feature some in her boutique and to my surprise they all sold quickly! The Museum of Cycladic Art and the Athens Music Hall proposed collaborations soon after, then one thing led to the next and I opened my own brand in 2014.

Has it been easy getting to where you are today? Would you say your background in marketing has helped you along the way?

The brand makes big steps every year and has beautifully evolved since its establishment, and so have I, as a designer and entrepreneur. However, this does not come for free. Running a business is exhilarating, but it also involves giving it your true commitment and wholehearted devotion. Many days have been difficult, but we can all agree that failure and hardships make us improve in ways we never knew possible. Looking back, I can confidently say that my background in marketing has played a major role in taking the brand to where it is today. My knowledge and skills have helped me shape my vision, define my goals and then execute them in a sophisticated way that would not have been feasible without them.

How did you experience the change in career path? Was it an easy decision?

Changing careers may have been one of the hardest things I’ve done. I remember the nights I stayed awake doubting myself, not knowing what was next. Many people thought I was out of my mind leaving a secure job to explore uncharted waters and a world unknown to me. But my husband supported and encouraged my decision all the way and empowered me to take the risk. 

I am so grateful to him. I soon realised that I would rather fail trying than give up pursuing my passion.

Which do you think are the key elements for success? 

There is no specific formula for success. However, I do believe that enthusiasm, devotion, hard work and determination are key. Luck and good timing can also play a role. Moreover, it is important to trust people and create a team of collaborators. Realising that you cannot do everything on your own will save you a lot of energy, time and money!

What inspires you to create a new collection?

Generally, I like to try new ideas and exit my comfort zone as part of my creative process. It helps to keep my creativity flowing and prevent designer’s block. Occasionally I look back to my roots. I am originally from Mytilini and the island’s nature and tradition have often provided me with inspiration. Some of the shells I collected there myself feature in my first ever collection. My subsequent collection was a healing process for me after my mother’s loss. I revived some family heirlooms and vintage pieces that were received very warmly by my audience. This is the most sentimental collection to me, and no words can describe its value. More recently, I designed Paradiso Perduto, which emerged through nostalgia for old-fashioned romance and was inspired by the film Great Expectations. Each of my creations is a reflection of my inner feelings and dreams, which at some point get triggered by external stimuli.

Being a mother of two, do you think that women can juggle motherhood and a career successfully?

Yes, it is definitely possible but it requires good time management and a well-functioning support system in place. Some of us are lucky enough to have relatives close by who can help, others may need to turn to day-care. Of course, balancing the two will require some sacrifice, but it is important for a woman to have the choice to follow her dreams. One shouldn’t have to choose between the two. To me, both the role of motherhood and that of a career-woman are important, and each one fulfils me in unique ways. Both my job and my family fill me with energy and teach me new things every day.

Looking forward, what do your imminent plans look like?

My major goal at the moment is to expand abroad and introduce my brand to international markets. This is a personal challenge and I am very excited to see what the future holds. After years of hard work I can confidently say there is a place for the brand in the global scene. I am proud to show the world the strength and potential of Greek design.

Wrapping up, what advice would you share with our audience?

Focus on finding the thing that fills your heart with happiness and makes you wake up every morning, and then why not try it out? Work hard to accomplish your dreams. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, discover your true capabilities and excel in what you do.