Spotlight Series: ALAT Jewelry

Hello, beautiful people! Happy 4th of July to you all! It's also time for another episode of the Spotlight Series, whoop whoop!

*Just in case you missed the last episode or are totally new to the series, you can check out the link down below:*
http://scarsofshe.blogspot.com/2014/07/spotlight-series-detroits-soldier-for.html


Alrighty, now time to reveal this week's special guest: Ronya 'Yaya' Osman!  Ronya is the owner/proprietor of A Lily Among Thorns Designs (ALAT, for short), a jewelry business based out of New Jersey, where she currently lives. Ronya's love of wearing accessories that grab attention, giving another opportunity to share the love of God and a discovery that others wanted to accessorize the same way led her to begin selling ALAT Designs creations on Etsy in 2013 (I recently sent her an old necklace of mine and will include a pic below when I receive it back). The concept of ALAT comes from her much-loved passage of the Bible, Song of Solomon 2:2, "....that God finds us most delightful, while some may not appreciate us much more than the lily is appreciated among the thorns". Also, her enjoyment of searching for charming elements among common places inspired her to creatively turn them into beautiful works of art, much like what God does with us! She hope to also stir up hidden talents within herself and others. Now, I'ma step to the side and let Ronya break it down just a wee bit more: 

1) What is the purpose of ALAT Designs?

The main purposes of ALAT are;

·        Deliver unique meaningful jewelry that is affordable and beautiful

·        Encourage people to actively pursue a relationship with God

·        Support in-need groups through volunteering, prayer, mentoring and fundraising.

2) Why did you create ALAT Designs?

The idea of ALAT was sparked when my mom took up the craft of making jewelry. She started teaching me some techniques and I fell in love with the creative process. I started making cross bracelets and everyone loved them! Then, I started experimenting with other materials. My mom has always been a vintage jewelry collector so I started incorporating vintage pieces into our designs. From day one it has been a fun creative experience, so I thought why not combine jewelry design with my never ending thirst for God. I wanted a way to express my faith, with style, and allow others to do the same.

3) Where do you see ALAT Designs going in the future?

Although accessories play a vital role in completing a look, there is a more profound driving force behind ALAT.

Since I have went into business I’ve been able to work with organizations and advocates in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors. Leading workshops, mentoring individuals, and fundraising has been an amazing experience. I want ALAT to continue to grow and be an organization that focuses on others, one that creates positive change by addressing the vital needs of the communities and truly loving with God’s love.

4) Who or what inspired you to create ALAT Designs?

God inspires me to create, in general, not only concerning ALAT Designs.  As I am made in God’s image, His creativity is in me, and in all of us! I share His impulse to create. I cannot see living my life without creating or without sharing the Gospel. ALAT is motivated by both.

5) How would your life be different if you didn't have ALAT Designs?

ALAT has been a wonderful learning adventure and a way of self expression for me and others. I suppose if ALAT didn’t exist I would find another outlet to learn new things, express myself and share God’s Love, but my outfits would be pretty boring!

Before I sign off, I wanted to tell Ronya thank you for allowing me to showcase and promote the greatness that is ALAT :) if you're in search of some gorgeous jewelry OR trying to think of an idea to do with that old broken beaded bracelet that you've had since childhood, you can get in contact with Ronya via Facebook: [Facebook.com/ALATDesigns], as well as Instagram [@ms_ronya & @alilyjewelry].  Trust me, you will not be disappointed! 

Whomever shall be featured next?? Want it to be you?? If you'd like to be the next featured guest on the Spotlight Series or know someone that may, feel free to tweet me (@ambition4life_), follow me on Instagram (@rubiesandpearls_)  or email me at thomas.jazmine@gmail.com. 

 Stay tuned for the next episode! Over and Out!

*Update: this is a preview of my necklace that Ronya did for me! it's absolutely beautiful :) I can't wait for it to get here

This is the full necklace!! I absolutely LOVE it!!!!! Thank you Ronya for taking my janky pearl necklace and making it beautiful and new!