Meet Rahiel Desta | Jewelry Designer
We had the good fortune of connecting with Rahiel Desta and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Rahiel, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve enjoyed making jewelry for myself for years. I thought about creating a line to sell, but it wasn’t until recently that I decided to turn it into a business.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I studied textile development in college and have worked in the fashion industry for 15 years (and counting). I gained tools that are super helpful for my own business, especially at this level where I’m still figuring it out. A lot of my work is inspired by textures, patterns and shapes usually seen in African fabrics and art. I pull from my career and cultural backgrounds to create jewelry that can be worn everyday, but still feels special.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There’s an insane amount of places and things to do in NYC, but I’ll try and narrow down some of my favorites.
Good strong coffee is very important to me – Paris Dakar and Corto in Bedstuy are my go-to.
To eat: Saraghina Bakery and Pizzeria in Bedstuy. Evelina & Walter’s are great for dinner and a drink – all also in Brooklyn. Makina Cafe is a great Eritrean/Ethiopian food truck that pops up all over the city.
Hopefully, they like art and museums. I’ve wandered the Met a hundred times and it never gets old.
In the Summer, I like to go to Fort Greene Park. Try to catch the Layout or Soul Summit event where you just picnic and listen to good music.
For shops, Of The Cloth and Sincerely, Tommy are beautifully curated spaces you should definitely check out.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have so many supportive people within my family and friend circle. We motivate each other to do what it is we’re passionate about. I find it inspiring just being around individuals who are creating their own path.
Website: www.destajewelry.com
Instagram: @DestaJewelry
Image Credits
Janelle Jones
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
