SD Voyager Interview - Rising Stars: Meet Esla Andrew of Escondido

Today we’d like to introduce you to Esla Andrew

Hi Esla, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Thank you for inviting me to speak about my business and creative journey.

I started making jewelry in 2015 while I was a stay-at-home mom of three. It had actually been years since I’d made jewelry—my previous attempt had been during high school when I enjoyed making beaded jewelry as a hobby. I revisited jewelry making when I envisioned a bracelet I couldn’t find in any store. So I decided to make it myself.

That one bracelet led to making gifts for friends and family, and before long, I realized I could turn this into a home-based endeavor. Entrepreneurship runs in my family, so starting my own venture felt like a natural step.

Since then, I’ve grown not only as a business owner but also as an artist. While I started with beading, I’ve spent years improving my skills and studying metalsmithing. It has become as much about learning as it has been about challenging myself to create all of the jewelry designs I envision.

The progression has been exciting and every day I am grateful for the opportunity to do what I love.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

It has absolutely not been a smooth road. As they say, if only I knew then what I know now. However, I know that’s what makes it a journey. All working mothers can likely relate to the challenges of prioritizing family and a career. It’s a balancing act I’ve yet to master. I struggle with the guilt I feel while spending time on something that feels “just for me.” It’s taken time to realize that working on becoming a better jeweler and business owner isn’t selfish.

This past year has been full of “aha” moments. One of the biggest hurdles I’ve overcome is actually believing that it CAN happen to me. That I CAN be a successful business owner and jewelry designer of a creative business that not only helps contribute to my family but also provides a space for all of my ideas.

I’m incredibly grateful for the supporters I already have who understand what I’m trying to do and like and wear my jewelry. They keep me going, especially on the days I doubt myself.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?

At the most basic level I’m a jeweler—creating gemstone bracelets and necklaces, and expanding into earrings and rings through my metalsmithing work. My jewelry evokes a bygone era in a modern way.

What sets my jewelry apart is my dedication to a custom fit and a desire to preserve history through my love of patterns, architectural details and Victorian inspired designs and colors. I bead using natural stones in their most delicate form, reminiscent of the historic narrow gauge railroads that still wind through the mountainous terrain where beautiful gems are found.

Whether a custom or standard design, each piece is carefully hand-strung with the wearer in mind. No two bracelets are ever the same, as the gemstones’ natural variations and my tailored patterns ensure each piece is truly one of a kind.

One of my favorite things to tell customers when they try on their new bracelet is “every person who sees it gets a different view.” It’s a small reminder of perspective and individuality.

Any big plans?
I’m most excited about a new collection I’ve been preparing—originally intended to launch for the holidays. However, as I worked through the designs, I realized my current skill level didn’t quite align with the vision in my head, so the collection has been delayed.

In the meantime, I’ve immersed myself in another project that has me absolutely inspired. During a recent visit to the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, CA, I was captivated by a particular window design. Since then, I haven’t been able to think about anything else but creating a piece inspired by it.

As a history enthusiast—especially of the Victorian era—I’m constantly drawn to the architecture and design of that time. This year, I came to a realization: what I truly love to create are “souvenirs” from the places I visit. When I explore historic sites, like the Winchester Mystery House or an old Gold Rush ghost town, I often feel this bittersweet longing for a way to hold onto a piece of their beauty. My work has become my way of preserving and appreciating the intricate details of these remarkable places—especially when I can’t physically take them with me.

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