Meet Amanda Lacey

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Lacey.

Hi Amanda, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started making my jewelry in 2012. It was hard finding items that fit my simplistic fashion sense. As I started learning new techniques and seeing the beauty in the materials, I became obsessed. As I wore my creations, I started receiving compliments and questions about where to buy similar items. I figured I’d share my unique creations with the world. I’ve worked with several mediums like effect paint, resin, and wire, but beaded jewelry has always been my favorite piece to create. I love to organize my beads, stare at them, feel them, appreciate their beauty, and envision what they’ll become; really, a wonderful form of therapy. Once I have brought my creations to life, I feel at ease and free to create more beautiful pieces of simply made elegance.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey started slow and tiresome, with several moments of feeling like I was wasting time and money. The main thing I had to unlearn was making jewelry pieces to my taste, expecting others to get with it, and learning the art of truly designing for others. In March of 2021, I was asked if I made apple watch bands, which I had seen but was hesitant to try. I wasn’t sure how they would be received. I moved forward with my client’s request, and my Pretty Wrist Wear line was born. At this time, I was also drawn heavily to the sparkle of various charm accents, with the designer-inspired ones highly requested. I found a supplier who offered multiple watch style attachments in bulk and a trusted charm vendor and started creating gorgeous smartwatch bands and stunning bracelet sets to match.

As the orders started coming, my designs caught the attention of Brandon and Trachelle Horsley, owners of It’s A Vibe Boutique, and the beautiful couple who gave Q&X Designs a real home. It’s my biggest business accomplishment and was gained based on my work alone; a proud moment money can’t buy. This opportunity has given me a place to showcase my work along with their beautiful inventory and have the chance to learn and grow from fellow business owners. It’s a wonderful feeling handing out business cards and being able to direct people to a physical location to shop; it makes me feel fancy! It’s A Vibe Boutique houses several local black-owned businesses, and I’m just honored and privileged to be in the collective.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
When buying jewelry from Q&X Designs, you don’t just get a pretty piece of jewelry, but you also get a service. I take price in my work, enjoy hearing how my clients love them, and constantly receive compliments on their jewelry art. I have pieces I made 2 years ago that didn’t sell until recently, it can often be discouraging, but when it finally sells, I feel the wait was worth it. For me, it’s never been about the money; I love creating and sharing them with others. My favorite things to create are full jewelry sets with elegant designs that I’ve always pictured being adorned by a gorgeous bride on her wedding day. Whenever I see a sweetheart neckline on a dress, my mind instantly starts planning pieces that would match and accentuate the dress’s beauty. Wedding decor is dramatic and scenic, and I feel like the bride’s accessories should also capture the day’s beauty. I have zero fashion sense regarding clothes, but I love accessorizing. Most people plan their outfits and then add jewelry; I, however, see jewelry and plan my outfits around it. I am a tee shirt and jeans girl, but the right jewelry can spice up the simplest outfit and make it stand out.

We’d love to hear what you think about risk-taking?
As a single parent of two growing and rambunctious boys, while funding my business with my resources, every move I make often feels like a risk. Sometimes trying to balance the two becomes stressful, but the rewards from both aspects of my life outweigh my fears in most cases. It’s about stepping out on faith, but you also must put the work into it, and I try to remember that every day. My cousin Kay Clark, owner of KC’s Wing Bar, has been a true inspiration to me, and I’m the oldest between us. Watching her never give up and keep pushing while doing her mommy thing makes it seem possible for me. Her accomplishments were magic to my motivation to keep going and remember someone is always watching. I’ve enjoyed watching her grow! She encouraged me to be more outgoing and have confidence in myself and my brand; I had to make sure she was a part of my story.

Contact Info:

• Website: Qxdsgns.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/qx_designs
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prettywrists