Spotlight on Local: Allyson Lea Designs

Why did you develop the brand you did? What does it mean to you and what do you think it means to your clients?

Lots of brands cater to a small niche of people by making things that only one type of woman or person can wear. I wanted to find a way to create things that are universal for everyBODY. Pieces that exist in the middle of genders and outside of the norm. My brand allows my customers to express themselves freely without restrictions and make any statement they want. My hope is that whatever piece my clients walk away with gives them a boost of self-confidence and inspires them each time they wear it.

What is the favorite piece you make or sell? Why does it stand out?

I’m a sucker for a statement earring! I love when my double arch rainbow earrings go to a new home after a market. The process of making this collection taught me so many new techniques with metal forming, as well as lots of patience!

How has being an entrepreneur affected the way you view the world?

It’s a big endeavor to start a business. It can be time consuming and you can second guess yourself. There are sleepless nights and early mornings. It’s a lot of work! And it’s hard maneuvering from the bottom, starting small and truly creating something that lasts. It’s humbled me and given me role models and mentors to learn from. Trying to pinpoint what makes one small business successful and the impact it can have on the local economy.

Does being a business owner impact your personal life? How?

Absolutely! The amazing community, full of female-identifying and non-binary makers, has taught me new ways to love myself and express myself with intention. Being surrounded with confident creators who are open with their art and themselves empowers me to do the same!  Many of them are building spaces that allow us to grow and thrive together — spaces I might not have found myself in if it weren’t for my business.

What do you hope will change about your business in five years?

It will have a greater impact within the community and locally. It can sustain not just myself, but a partner, a collaboration, collective, or just a bad-ass group of femmes with similar visions from all sorts of backgrounds and skill sets. Community over competition!

What do you hope will be the same about your business in five years?

It’s still is flexible and growing, not on a rigid route to success. One of my favorite parts about making is that the beginning design or concept has a life of its own. The beauty is sometimes never in the original plan. I want to always remember that and strive to be open to change and influence.

How do you try to support Austin women?

I love shopping local women’s wares at markets or in the handful of boutiques we have around town. I have a box full of treasures that I collect and save to give friends and family throughout the year. Getting our art, designs, and livelihood outside of our community remains so important. Reaching those customers who do and don’t typically seek out Austin women owned businesses is key!

What can the city government or local community do to support your business?

Work with us to close the gender gap in business. Partner with female and non-binary individuals to sustain the fight to do this, as well as highlight and honor the successes of local female and non-binary business owners. Having access to those platforms could change Austin’s economy and get more people to support us. Also, having a program similar to HAAM for all artists would be life changing!

What about your brand or yourself do you most associate with Austin? How does it reflect Austin?

Like Austin, my brand is eclectic and constantly evolving. I am proud of where I am today, but I strive for designs and products that can be more accessible and relatable for EVERYONE! I think that reflects what a lot of people and communities are working so hard for in Austin.

If you were allowed to only eat one food every day for the rest of your life, but it provided you all the nutrition you need, what would the food be and what do you love about it?

That would 100% be eggs benedict! Nothing is more satisfying to me than popping a poached egg and watching it melt over scrumptious veggies and an english muffin — not to mention, the creamy golden deliciousness of hollandaise sauce in every bite!