23/03/2015
We recently got wind that billionaire entrepreneur and hotelier-turned-deejay Paris Hilton was on The Rock for a little R&R with her supermodel bestie Naomi Campbell. Naturally, the heiress couldn't resist a little retail therapy, which landed her in the GoldenEye Resort's gift shop.
Hilton splurged on a few pieces, but one in particular has been making a buzz on her Instagram page -- the red, green and gold breadfruit leaf earrings. Local jewellery designer Keri Henry was all too excited when she heard the news.
AW Fashion shares in the excitement.
AW Fashion (AWF): Who is Keri Henry?
Keri Henry (KH): I am the daughter of Norris and Sonia Henry -- owners of SN Kraft Limited -- a company they started almost 30 years ago manufacturing wooden souvenirs and gift items.
AWF: How long have you been designing jewellery?
KH: After completing my degree I decided to join the family business, which has branched out to do trophies and awards as well. At that time I wanted to diversify the offerings of our company and not be limited to souvenir products. I have always had a passion for fashion and enjoyed mixing colours. In 2013, I took the plunge with the help and support of my family and launched my bold and intricate jewellery line -- Lexitori Designs.
AWF: What products do you offer?
KH: Lexitori Designs currently offers a collection of hand-painted wooden earrings, unisex leather cuffs and soon-to-be-on-the-market pendant necklaces. The earrings are fitted with surgical steel and are nickel-free. Also available are wooden trinket boxes, some with fabric detail.
AWF: Why did you start designing jewellery?
KH: In addition to diversifying the product line of the parent company, I enjoy accessorising, looking different and having variety in my style. I wanted a line of accessories that reflect the vibrancy and versatility of our island culture, but still have an international appeal.
AWF: What raw materials are used in the production of your jewellery?
KH: I focus on using mostly Jamaican raw materials. Items are made from poplar, cedar, and mahoe. I find that wood is durable, resilient and easy to work with.
AWF: Explain the brand concept and the inspiration behind Lexitori Designs.
KH: Lexitori Designs is named after my twin girls Lexi and Tori. This brand is the next generation in our family business and aims to provide unique, quality-made accessories at an affordable price.
AWF: Where can your designs be found?
KH: Lexitori pieces are available now in stores locally, such as in Kingston at Rêve Jewellery -- Devon House, Jamaica Pegasus hotel gift shop, Craft Cottage -- Village Plaza, My Jamaica -- Liguanea, Carby's -- Twin Gates Plaza, Casa de Xaymaca -- Norman Manley International Airport. Also, GoldenEye Hotel, The Caves, Profumo gift shop in Taj Mahal, Ocho Rios, and Schatzie Boutique in Montego Bay.
AWF: How did you get into the luxury resort market?
KH: As a new designer I have been attending various shows/events introducing my pieces and networking. I wish to have my pieces in the hotels and have been making contact. As a result, I received a favourable response from GoldenEye Hotel and Resort.
AWF: Who has shown interest in your designs?
KH: My clientele consists of local and international persons, mostly females, who appreciate unique locally made pieces. We also do custom pieces for those clients who want to preserve their sense of individuality.
AWF: We saw a photo of Paris Hilton wearing Lexitori. Did she purchase other pieces from your collection?
KH: I was informed that Paris Hilton purchased three pairs of my earrings, but the red, green and gold leaves caught her eye immediately.
AWF: Where do you see Lexitori Designs in five years?
KH: My vision for Lexitori Designs is to become a local, regional, and international accessories brand as I expand the product offerings.
AWF: How can customers contact you?
KH: I can be contacted via e-mail at lexitoridesigns@gmail.com; cellphone number 876.297.5409; follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter .
Editor's note: Paris Hilton paired her Lexitori leaf earrings with a hand-painted silk chiffon caftan from Ntama Arts by local designer Tukula Ntama. Join us next week when we share Ntama's story.
The Business of Art & Fashion
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