Meet Leslie Herbert | Fine Jewelry Designer

I have always loved jewelry since I was a young girl and always thought of it as wearable art. More importantly, jewelry should be intrinsically unique to the wearer and should silently provide a window into their soul. I also feel strongly that jewelry should be worn and enjoyed on a daily basis, rather than only on special occasions or tucked away indefinitely for safe keeping.

When I began my business, I felt I had something to contribute for the modern woman. My personal style would best be described as edgy, rocker chic and I wanted a collection of jewelry to exemplify that look, but with a more refined tone that one typically does not see in the marketplace. I created The Haviland Collection for those who love the edgy but glamorous style, one that walks the fine line between rebellion and refinement.

I worked very hard to create a collection of jewelry which would be easy to wear, had pieces that would coordinate and layer seamlessly, and that could be worn on the weekend, to work or to a formal occasion. I wanted to create exceptionally well made, handcrafted, affordable fine jewelry for the woman with an edgy, unconventional spirit. Hard and soft edges, strong but feminine lines with gemstones, leather and pearls. I am quite pleased with the results of The Haviland Collection.

Since my company’s inception, I have expanded to a few men’s jewelry pieces, fine jewelry belt buckles with hand tooled leather straps and to bespoke jewelry. I especially love the custom designed process as it is a bit of a fun challenge for me to take a client’s request for a piece of jewelry and make it become a reality. It’s magical for me. I absolutely adore being part of my client’s special occasions and to help the vision come to life. Occasionally, when the commission is completed, it is very hard to close the lid on the box and deliver it to the owner! Custom pieces spend a lot of time with me throughout the design and fabrication process—-it’s hard to say good-bye to them. But it gives me a great deal of happiness and satisfaction when I hand deliver a piece of bespoke jewelry and to see the client wear the piece for the first time. It is very gratifying to know that my work will be a special and treasured item for the rest of their lives. It really is enchanting!

Purchasing jewelry is a different experience than other fashion items—-it is very special. Whether you order something for someone special or even just for yourself…..All of my jewelry arrives in a black lacquered box, beautifully wrapped in my signature black and white paper with a red satin ribbon. Fine jewelry is not simply a commodity, it’s a luxury experience. I work very hard for my clients to deliver exceptionally well made fine jewelry and create a memorable and pleasant experience for them. Often times, my jewelry marks a very important moment in my client’s life, and this means a great deal to me. The personalized approach I have towards creating custom designed jewelry is what I am known for, and is what sets me apart from other jewelry brands.

Being an entrepreneur is a leap of faith and certainly not for the faint of heart. The risk takers, the daredevils, the dreamers, the believers, those who throw caution to the wind….We are the ones who create businesses, who take an idea and carve it into a reality. I imagine there are those out there who have an easy path paved for them when they begin their business. However, from my observations, most do not experience the unobstructed road.

I feel it is even more daunting for those who launch businesses within the arts, focusing on a creative base. Those entrepreneurs are not selling products which are registered in most people’s minds as necessary commodities such as food, transportation, shelter or clothing. Purchasing art is a discretionary activity and can be categorized as a luxury item. It is very difficult to make a living in this field and sadly, many artists are not able to do so.

The most difficult aspect in the beginning stages of creating a business is to keep a safe distance from the naysayers. There are so many people who will gladly offer their opinion why a business will not work, rather than why it could! Those who said they tried it, but failed and that you will fail too. A new business venture is a mixture of pixie dust and white knuckled fortitude…magic and moxie.

Building a jewelry business is a daunting endeavor full of lessons by trial and error, emotional highs and lows, sleepless nights, tests of patience and perseverance which in turn, render the victories and successes oh-so-sweet. For those considering launching a business of their own, I feel it is essential to fill your life with those who are uplifting, encouraging and who cheer you on from the sidelines. Listen to your heart and start a business with something that you would love to do and pay no mind to those who have nothing to offer but negativity. I am very grateful to those who were supportive of me, very proud of my accomplishments, how far I have come in the last ten years and I am excited to see where the path takes me going forward.

I was very fortunate to have grown up in San Diego. It is a spectacular place to call home—-stunningly gorgeous, exceptional weather and so many wonderfully interesting and unique neighborhoods within the city to enjoy. Each area of the city offers it’s own flavor and there is literally something for everyone here!

If I have a friend arriving at the San Diego airport, I would traditionally take them for a quick bite at El Indio. This restaurant has been a long standing favorite of mine for many, many years. Sitting outside on the patio on a sunny day, enjoying wonderful Mexican food, after a long flight is such a simple treat. Also nearby is the Aero Club Bar, which is a fun, festive, charming neighborhood hangout where I love to have a dirty martini and a basket (or two…) of popcorn after returning home from a long international flight. I-Bar on Naval Air Station North Island is an iconic bar that I love going to when in Coronado. The quirky and “enforced” bar rules, people watching and nightly games of Fighter Dice is something you won’t experience anywhere else in the city.

La Jolla Coves is a terrific place to stroll and take in views of the Pacific Ocean. I love getting a group of friends together to have picnics on the bluff overlooking the water, watching the sunset. Ordering a Whaler at the La Valencia Hotel and dinner at Piatti with their warm basket of bread dipped in the delicious garlic, balsamic, olive oil they serve is always a favorite of mine when in La Jolla.

For outdoor activities, I love walking Torrey Pines State Beach, climbing Cowles Mountain where on a clear day, you can see all over the city. Potato Chip Rock is a great hike and provides a unique photo opportunity at the summit. I play tennis about four times a week——there are dozens of wonderful tennis clubs around the city to choose from and no shortage of excellent players. Mission Bay is still amazing for enjoyment on or off the water. We are blessed with wonderful weather all year round which allows us to enjoy being outside as much as we would like.

I am so grateful and very much appreciate those who encouraged me along the way. My mother was a huge advocate for taking a chance, to try something new and she was my most loyal and ardent cheerleader along the early path of starting my business. I owe so much of my success to her, for always looking at challenges with optimism and for keeping me positive when I was having difficulties and doubts.