Behind The Brand - Editorial Q&A
How did you both first meet and how did working together on Sadie + Jean come about?
We actually worked together at a content creation company where Ilana was Nikki’s boss. We always clicked and had very similar aesthetics, work ethics and views on how we would like to run a business from a personal point of view.
Nikki approached Ilana with an idea and there was no hesitation that we were going to take on this brand together. It’s been a very natural, organic fit and we are so fortunate to have one another in this crazy, beautiful entrepreneurial journey that has been S+J.
What was the inspiration behind starting a jewelry brand? Did you always want to work in the fashion and design space?
We noticed a gap in the jewellery market in South Africa where there was very little fine or demi-fine jewellery being sold. Most brands were either offering costume jewellery or were very expensive boutique stores, so there was nothing in between. We wanted to bridge the gap here with Sadie + Jean and offer timeless, minimal pieces at fair prices.
We both have backgrounds in fashion, PR and content creation along with a natural passion for jewellery. Nikki used to do jewellery classes, but on a very part-time basis, so we really have taught ourselves everything within this industry from manufacturing, to learning about the processes of different metals and starting an online store and we just can’t get enough.
Sadie + Jean is all about embracing a minimal and timeless aesthetic. How did this vision come about, and how does it translate into your jewelry designs?
As individuals, we have always been drawn to minimal, considered and timeless design, which translates a great deal to our daily lives. We wanted to create a brand that incorporated well-made products that embodied a relaxed lifestyle where simplicity and effortless living was key.
Sustainability and ethical sourcing are important to Sadie + Jean. How do you ensure that these principles are integrated into your design and production processes?
All of our pieces are designed and hand made in South Africa with our materials and gemstones being ethically and sustainably sourced. Our pieces are made to the highest quality so we know they will last a lifetime and not become a part of the fast-fashion cycle.
Can you share some insights into the inspirations behind your jewelry pieces, particularly those rooted in family heirlooms and traditions? What is your creative process?
All of our jewellery pieces have been influenced by much loved, treasured heirlooms and vintage designs within our families that carry deep meaning and of course, in true Sadie + Jean style, always adding a modern reinterpretation to them allowing them to be passed down to future generations with love.
We believe in an ode to the past while celebrating the present day with items that will last for years to come. We want all of our pieces to bring up the feelings of sentimentality and nostalgia as we truly believe that jewellery should make you feel something!
Jewelry can be personal: initial letters and personalized engravings are recurring features in your designs, and many pieces are made to order. Why do you think jewelry is such a great tool for self-expression?
We feel that jewellery has a wonderful way of sparking joy and bringing comfort to the wearer through its sentimentality. Most of our pieces have been designed with customisation and personalisation in mind allowing for the creation of meaningful, one of a kind keepsakes to be treasured for years to come.
Every individual has their own story to tell and we love that they have the option of making an item their own by adding their own personal stamp to a piece, whether it be with engraving, a significant date, letter or personal mantra to hold close to their heart.
Jewellery allows individuals to showcase their personal style and preferences. Whether it's bold and extravagant, or delicate and subtle, the choice of jewellery reflects an individual's taste and aesthetic. It can also act as a way to connect with one's roots or communicate important aspects of one's identity.
