Meet Sam Reid | Creative Director of SELFbysamreid jewelry, model and bartender

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sam Reid and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sam, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I honestly never thought about it until I moved to LA and needed a little extra money. One of my friends saw a necklace I was wearing when we were out and was like, “omg I want one of those, are you selling them?” and that was the initial spark in my mind, making me realize that I could really do this. All I had to do was make a bunch of cool pieces and sell them, so that’s what I did and it has been so fun so far. And truly when I am creating a piece, there is no thought at all, it’s just do.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is one of kind…literally. I’m sure every artist says that though. My jewelry is me. Each piece is a little piece of me, but also so many other little pieces with their own journey and story. See, almost everything is repurposed so where they come from is unknown but if I resonate with it, its gets used. I am very proud of myself for finding a way to make such cool things out of what other people thought were trash or not worthy anymore. I am so excited to discover what else is out there. I feel like when I source for new materials I am a pirate digging for gold, literally digging through piles of old jewelry to find hidden gems. I have learned that even the pieces that I think won’t sell, there is something for everyone and if that right person finds it, it will sell. I want people to know that this brand is not just promoting jewelry but emphasizing the importance of being yourSELF, trusting yourSELF, expressing yourSELF and doing what you want to do. That will always pay off. At the same time this brand is trying to minimize waste and create mindfulness about the health of the planet. Our beautiful earth is the only reason we breathe everyday so we must honor her. I feel good knowing that I can play a part in that and hopefully inspire others to as well 🙂 My story has just started and I am so excited for the rest of this unknown novel.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
OOOOoo I love this question.

First, we would go to my favorite coffee shop (obvi) Bolt on Sunset, the breakfast sandwiches are to die for. Then still that day I would take them to Topanga. To me that is one of the craziest places I’ve seen in California. I grew up in Gaithersburg MD so there were no mountains like that at all. I would love to thrift there and maybe take some cute pics.
After that if we could go to the beach to catch the sunset that would be sick. El matador state beach or one of the beaches near it would be my choice, so fucking cool there!
After that we would feel the vibes and if we are down to party, a concert or club on a rooftop is always fun. If we are tired maybe a hot tub night is better lol.
During that week I would make sure to check out one of the hiking spots like the observatory or Hollywood sign. Also shopping is very important and very fun. Rodeo would not be a place to purchase, but to manifest, people watch and admire the craftsmanship that goes into the garments in the window. It’s also just a beautiful place to walk around.
I know a couple of these things are still very touristy but hey I just moved out here 5 months ago so I am still exploring and discovering new things.
I think I would also take them to my bar, it’s a fun place on Sunset and I know everyone would have a good time.

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?
Omg where do I start, so many people! First and foremost shoutout to my friends and family for always being so supportive of me and seeing and believing in the vision. Rhianna Cooper for hiring me at such a crucial time in my time, shoutout to Cierra Belinkie for making my transition to California so smooth. Also big shoutout to Caroline Tyson and Britni Freidman for believing in the SELFbysamreid vision and kick starting it with me. Shoutout to Diamonds Productions for giving me the confidence I have now and shoutout to every art teacher, teacher, dance instructor, and creative I have worked with that allowed me to be myself. I feel like I should also credit myself just a lil bit for having the courage to act on my ideas, not being afraid to take big risks, and trusting my gut.

Website: selfbysamreid.com

Instagram: @samreid16

Youtube: Sam Reid – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMB3p4y7YY3MG0RM9twzVDg

Other: Tiktok – https://www.tiktok.com/@samreid16