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

Hi Pat, how did you come up with the idea for your business?

Miggie+Lea was conceived as a way to upcycle vintage jewelry that I’d inherited from my mother and my aunt. I wanted to wear their classic pieces without looking dated and find a way to salvage the broken jewelry that had sentimental value. I solved the problem created when more than one relative coveted the same piece by combining old elements into new designs. By separating one piece of vintage jewelry into multiple elements I was able to create contemporary wearable art and give each relative a momento from my mother’s collection.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

Miggie+Lea specializes in creating one-of-a-kind and very limited edition pieces, so each customer knows that they’re wearing something they won’t see on anyone else. As a visual artist, I love the process of creating wearable art but it’s a balancing act to find a price point that honors the amount of time, effort and experimentation that goes into making each piece. Artists generally see everything they create as precious and sometimes it’s difficult to part with an item because it’s the only one in existence.

I’ve learned that I need to educate my clients, tell them the backstory and make them part of my creative adventure. For instance, if I explain that I found the stones for a necklace during my morning hike, or that the ring they like was inspired by a vintage piece my aunt wore on special occasions, it becomes more meaningful and they become part of my extended family.

I’ve also had to learn that mistakes are inevitable and to be patient with myself as I transition from visual artist to entrepreneur. I’m grateful I was able to participate in the USC Bridges to Business because it gave me the foundation and ongoing support I needed to make my business successful.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Pre-pandemic, the stop for my female guests would be the Olympic Spa in Mid City or the Century Spa, which accepts both men and women. It’s a perfect way to decompress after a long plane ride, and both spas offer delicious, healthy Korean food.

I would definitely take my guests to Kenneth Hahn Park and the Stoneview Center in Culver City. Most people don’t think of LA as a place to enjoy nature but these urban oasis are full of wildlife and activities like yoga and fishing. And now that my two favorite parks are joined by a footbridge across La Cienaga Blvd my guests can enjoy panoramic views of the city while exercising.

I’m also very fond of the Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens in the historic Adams corridor. This stunning Italian Renaissance villa is a Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Monument was once owned by Hollywood director and choreographer Busby Berkeley, and in addition to the labyrinth it boasts an amazing garden with multiple water features.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are many people who have contributed to my success but my sister Kathleen has been a strong supporter since Day One. Her constant encouragement keeps me going when I want to throw in the towel and she inspires me every day.

Instagram: @patpaynecreatrix

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