Conversations with the Inspiring Alexis Palmer

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexis Palmer.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am inspired by nature and have a creativity within that has been waiting quietly throughout my adult life to get out.

After college and graduate school, I jumped into the corporate world and was amidst a whirlwind of people, process, travel, and demand. While I found it to be exciting and challenging (in mostly good ways), I got burnt out as I craved more in my personal life. After doing some soul-searching, I landed in Colorado, where I took metalsmithing classes for fun and happily discovered just how much I enjoy creating jewelry, AND I’m lucky that other people love my creations as well. I posted a few things on Instagram as I took the classes and was surprised to get a number of questions on when/where I would be selling my pieces, so I thought I’d give it a shot!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It is not always easy to learn a new skill, so starting out and learning as many techniques as possible with metalsmithing and jewelry making coupled with figuring out how to set up and run your own business, including acquiring tools and materials, figuring out marketing, in-person and online selling, budgeting, and having time for actually making things is a serious amount of time and energy. It hasn’t been easy, but it has been fun overall!

When chasing after a passion, it’s hard to feel negative despite struggling along the way. Each bump in the road is a learning opportunity, and though I do sometimes wish that I had started earlier in my life, I am also grateful to be in a place where I can enjoy the process because I didn’t find this passion right away.

Advice to others who are just starting out would be to go for it! Things can be overwhelming and scary, but if you commit and keep going and following the feeling inside that makes you want to chase after your passion in the first place, you WILL figure it out. Mistakes are tough, but keeping a clear head and responding as calmly as possible will get you through. Also, ask for help, there are so many others out there in the same boat or who have been in the same boat, most are more than happy to offer their insight.

So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Lex Metals story. Tell us more about it.
I work out of my garage and work primarily in sterling silver, copper and brass. Using hammering, soldering, and stone setting, I enjoy creating one-of-a-kind pieces that appeal to all styles, genders, ages, etc.

I specialize in handmade pieces designed for simple elegance but with a rustic edge. Jewelry should be fun and personal, I love to create pieces that speak to the wearer. I also do custom designs (using conflict-free stones) and love working with individuals to come up with special pieces just for them. Whether someone is looking for his/herself, a gift, bridesmaid gifts, or even engagement and wedding rings, I love working together to create something special and one of a kind!

I have always loved and been excited by unique jewelry that isn’t just like everyone else’s. I would get frustrated with not being able to find something that I had in my mind, and being able to actually just go in the shop and create it is so rewarding. I want to be able to make things that appeal to a broad range of styles but that are affordable and appreciated for being handcrafted.

For good reason, society often focuses more on the problems rather than the opportunities that exist, because the problems need to be solved. However, we’d probably also benefit from looking for and recognizing the opportunities that women are better positioned to capitalize on. Have you discovered such opportunities?
I do! Being a business that is women-owned and provides a service or product that resonates with other women is huge and can be more approachable for other women.

Because of the many challenges, women are teaming up to empower one another and love to have a physical representation of their cause, challenge, and/or celebration. A piece of jewelry (in my case) can be just what someone is looking for to carry that bit of power on their body. Whether it’s a name/word, a date, a gemstone, or some other symbol, I can be a part of a bigger story and help create a source of strength or memory that someone can wear as a daily inspiration.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/LexMetals
• Phone: 6034996330
• Email: lex.metals@yahoo.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lex.metals/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lex.Metals.Handmade/

Image Credit:
I took all the photos except the one of me and my daughter hiking – that was taken by Erica Simone – www.ericasimone.com

Getting in touch: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.