Just by being herself, trying to make her way to Keri, she made that happen. “We got to talk about dreams and the future before I actually gave her the earrings,” Kendrick said. She then let her try on a pair of earrings she made and Keri fell in love with them.
Kendrick is the designer and owner of a jewelry line called Deleay Lashay. Deleay Lashay, which is Kendrick’s middle name, is a collection of necklaces and earrings handmade and painted by Kendrick herself. She started making jewelry in high school with beading just to relax, and she also made pieces for herself. She really got into it once she came to Chicago though.
Kendrick began Deleay Lashay a year ago and has so far been successful showing at fashion shows, hosting events and has had her work featured in magazines.
At the moment, Deleay Lashay has three different collections: Bossy, Essence and Conversation. According to the designer, each piece makes a statement of its own.
On the Deleay Lashay website, it says the Bossy Collection is designed to dominate. When wearing them, you are reminded that you are in charge, you are the boss and in control of your independent beauty. The bossy earrings demand respect and acknowledgement from all.
The Essence Collection was made for the sheer beauty of a woman’s style. These pieces can relate to anyone’s style and personality. It adds an extra touch to who you are and what you stand for, which is beauty and grace.
The Conversation Collection was designed and created as an emotion or outer expression of one’s self. These pieces give women the opportunity to make a statement that also holds the ability to express an opinion.
By these descriptions, you can tell that you are ordering a one of a kind piece of jewelry. When looking for inspiration, Kendrick says: “Everywhere I find inspiration. Mostly it has to do with motivation and encouragement, because everyone I feel has a dream and you always need something to remind you or encourage you. So most of my inspiration comes from just 'what can this piece give to a person?'”
As a junior in college, it’s almost time that chapter to end for Kendrick. She hopes to expand Deleay Lashay and continue to make it a lifestyle. She also hopes to work in film, makeup artistry and hairstyling––planning to work behind the scenes as a stylist. With Deleay Lashay, she hopes to expand to clothing, one day creating custom made dresses, purses and shoes.
To aspiring jewelry designers or someone that just has a passion for fashion and art Kendrick says, “It’s hard work but if you love it enough you want to do it, you’re going to continue to do it. Don’t do it for the money, that’s the wrong way to go. If you do it for the money you only think about money. Money comes and goes but your love and passion for something stays.”
Following her own advice, the young designer says of her passion: “It’s more like a lifestyle than just jewelry.”
You can check out Marissa Kendrick’s jewelry, Deleay Lashay at www.deleaylashay.com.
