An Interview with Kelsi from Myrra Jewelry
/Kelsi Yuanyuan Xi is the founder and designer of Myrra Jewelry. Read below on how she started her company in 2013 and opened her second pop-up shop in New York.
SPACE38: What inspired you to start your own jewelry company?
Kelsi: I always liked wearing jewelry ever since I was little. I loved wearing gemstones and real silver and gold. In 2013 I was working as a photographer and I decided to learn how to make jewelry because it is a more hands on process.
S38: What is the meaning of your brand name, Myrra?
K: I was looking for a female name to represent the brand name. I looked at mystical names and found Myrra. Myrra is derived from the name Mira, meaning "Wonder" in Latin, "Ocean" in Sanskirt; as well as Miriam, meaning "Light" in Hebrew.
S38: Where do you find influences for your designs/ what influences you?
K: I like feminine delicate styles and european design. Things that are easy to wear and are subtle. I also enjoy a lot of symbolism like the hamsa, horseshoe and evil eye.
S38: What made you decide to open a pop-up?
K: I like interacting with people and creating a space that is inviting, warm, and cozy.
S38: Any advice you would give to emerging brands that want to open a pop-up?
K: You have to be relaxed. There are always unexpected events, like deliveries not being on time. There is a lot of work that goes into setting up a pop-up, so planning ahead and being organized is key to making the process go smoother.