Name of business: L.Marie Designs

Type of business: Handmade jewelry

Location: Turlock

Contact information: @l.mariedesigns on Instagram

Specialty: One-of-a-kind pieces

History of business:

Turlock resident Lauren Olson has always loved accessories — so much, even, that she began making her own. Now, her impeccable taste in jewelry and talent for creating unique pieces has led to a successful business endeavor she never could have predicted.

Olson first began her jewelry-making business, L.Marie Designs, in May 2019 after she realized some of the accessory offerings throughout town weren’t quite her taste. After making jewelry for herself and friends, her family encouraged her to create an Instagram account for her creations. Since then, that account has earned nearly 3,000 followers who all have a taste for Olson’s handmade, one-of-a-kind necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more.

“My business just took off from there,” Olson said of her Instagram account. “My name just started spreading because I make a lot of unique jewelry that no one else has.”

Olson currently runs her business on Instagram only, but is in the process of creating a website where she can sell her inventory. When she isn’t busy fulfilling orders through social media, Olson spends her time at pop-up shops throughout the Valley where customers can look through and purchase pieces she has available.

“I love meeting new people. Even if they don’t like jewelry, I love to chat with them and see what their style is,” Olson said. “I don’t just stick to one specific style — I like to see what other people like and make things I know they’ll enjoy, too.”

From large statement pieces to dainty necklaces, L.Marie Designs offers something for everyone. As far as current trends with local customers, Olson said her bold coin chokers fly off the shelves. While she usually sells to local customers at pop-up events, her online Instagram shop has allowed the young entrepreneur to reach people from as far away as New Hampshire.

Pieces from L.Marie Designs are usually never more expensive than $50, Olson added, allowing her to provide on-trend jewelry at affordable prices.

“It means a lot to me when I get messages from people saying they got compliments on something I made,” Olson said. “Just layering a piece of jewelry can make a whole outfit. It makes me feel really good that I made their day — and my own.”

For those who may be nervous about beginning their own business endeavor, Olson offered encouraging words.

“Just go out there and do it. like I’m the type to get nervous about making a change,” Olson said. “I would tell anyone that has any idea to just go for it. Just make your Instagram or make a website or anything and just try it out. You’ll probably succeed.”