Lucile, jewelry designer, tells us about her brand MAMA HONUA

Mama Honua is a brand of handmade jewelry, made in France, with retro-bohemian accents, based in Normandy.

Honua means "planet" or "earth" in Hawaiian. Lucile chose this name to embody her commitment to an environmentally friendly approach.
The “Mama” was added to Honua for the human and feminine side of the brand.
@mamahonua

1/ When and how did you discover your love for jewelry design?

Coming from a background in lingerie design, I found my happiness in the meticulousness of this type of work, but not in its concrete execution (sewing).
It was while hunting for a few items to make bracelets and grabbing some pliers that I fell in love with it.
As I delved deeper into the subject and began to handle a filing cabinet, files and other blowtorches, I knew this was what I needed.

2/ What is the best thing about your job as a jewelry designer?

Freedom : to organize my days as I wish, to choose my work partners, my artistic direction, the universe and tone that I want to give to my brand.
Making decisions when you're on your own isn't always easy, but seeing yourself progress on a daily basis is also very satisfying.

3/ Where do you find your inspiration?

My inspiration often comes from trial and error. I begin with a crush on a stone that I imagine on a necklace, a ring, a bracelet, or earrings.
As the tests progress, the project is refined.
It can also come from a very specific idea to trace or shape on the metal. One thing is certain, I like lightness and finesse.

4/ What advantages do you get from Makk Design’s jewelry display concept?

I started using Makk Design displays for the various designer markets I attend, then for the boutiques and pop-ups where I display my jewelry.
I often pair them with vintage glass and brass boxes that go very well with them.
The wood of the displays highlights the “natural” side that I want to give to my atmosphere and which fits well with my brand identity.
I often get compliments on my overall presentation, and even customers who want to buy my displays ;) I like to explain to them that it is also part of my approach to source from another French designer.

5/ Where do you see your jewelry brand in 5 years?

In 5 years, I hope that Mama Honua will continue to grow, perhaps integrate other people into the adventure (I currently work alone from A to Z), and perhaps add other collections that are different from jewelry...
But shh! We'll see then!

6/ Do you have any advice for people who would like to embark on an entrepreneurial adventure?

Don't neglect your weekends and vacations. Living your passion is great, but to keep it a passion, you can't let it swallow you up!
Make sure you are also well surrounded by people who support you and are there for you.
And never say “never”! From there, you can go for it!

7/ And finally, do you have a phrase/quote or mantra that inspires you?

“FIRE NEEDS AIR” — a fitting quote when you’re creating jewelry and wielding a blowtorch, but one that applies to just about anything in life.
For me, it's a bit like praising moderation : not seeing everything in black or white, but realizing that for everything there are a multitude of nuances that fit together.

Thank you Lucile for this interview! :) Find her online store here .