Leslie Lawton Biography

From There to Here

Leslie Lawton was born in Kentucky and raised in Texas. The first major life transition came for her at the age of 14, when her family moved to Del Mar, California. Let’s just say that she lost her Texas drawl in two weeks, as the life of a cool Southern California beach bunny beckoned. She began cultivating a tan, a love of body surfing and the certain knowledge that she could win new friends and influence people. From there, it was only natural to attend UCLA, study English literature and embark on a career in advertising.

As it turns out, Leslie spent much of her adult life as an advertising copywriter, working for ad agencies and companies all over the country. While it was a wild, creative ride at times, her work required a focus on linear thinking and staying in tune with business goals. All of which, somehow led her into another life transition, and this one’s major.

The Next Big Thing

Over the last five years, Leslie has decided to explore the pleasures of creating visual beauty and the art of adornment, working with her hands and heart, even more than with her head.

“The difference between writing advertising and designing jewelry is the difference between expression with a business agenda and pure artistic expression. I’ve been very blessed to be able to make the transition. ”

Of course, having a business background has come in very handy, in building her jewelry business, which, she says, is quite a business challenge:

“I’ve grappled with the need to track inventory, establish viable pricing, manage my accounts, identify markets and stores, analyze and track my Web site activity, etc., etc., etc. I’m running a handmade production business today, without compromising the work. Because I bring skills from my previous career to the business. And because I’ve attracted some remarkable people to work with me. They’ve set up systems that run smoothly, keeping my Web site fresh, reaching out to my customer base, opening sales channels and allowing me to focus on the rich, complex and expressive art and design that will set my work apart in a crowded marketplace. And that’s the biggest challenge of all.”

Where Is This All Going?

The next transition is coming up fast. Leslie is translating her vision into sales because her jewelry stands for something more than wearing something well made or pretty. It’s about the women who wear it, their willingness to shine, not just in what they wear but in all the ways they show up in their lives. By honoring the essence of these one-of-a-kind women, Leslie is helping them express their sense of accomplishment and authenticity. By keeping these women in the spotlight, she is preparing to step up and take her business to the next level.