Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Finestone.
Hi Ashley, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I started this company out of a need. Ever since this pandemic struck, I would notice all the ways in which people would try to improvise on where to put their mask when they weren’t using it: walking with it in their hand, having it under their chin in 95 degree heat, hanging off of one ear. I was having the same struggle myself, and as a pretty germ-conscious person even before all this, I certainly didn’t want to throw my mask in my purse, belt bag, around my car or any other surface where it can potentially become contaminated.
Once masks became mandatory in Miami and nothing like this existed yet, I thought to myself, ‘Okay, NOW there really has to be a better way’. I just wanted a simple and convenient way of having my mask with me wherever I go. My first time wearing my own Miami Mask Chain, I was stopped by a number of people and asked where I got it, I knew I was onto something.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been a relatively smooth road. I am very fortunate that early on when I launched this business, the concept itself, along with the unique designs, garnered a lot of attention, including features in prominent news outlets and publications. From there, demand just grew and grew. The main struggle I experienced from that point on, was I would have to say – keeping up with the increasing demand while simultaneously launching new collections.
As you know, we’re big fans of Miami Chains & Co. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
Miami Chains & Co. offers high fashion chains that are as fabulous as they are Functional. Crafted from the finest materials, we design and create obsession-worthy chains. From 18k Gold plated links, hand-painted enamel evil eyes, pearls, and strands of 100% suede, Miami Chains & Co. offers the most unique and stylish pieces you won’t want to take off.
Originally, we started with a simple ‘OG’ Collection of Mask Chains and have grown into what has become a full-blown company, with over 100 different styles amongst 12 collections. Each of which doubles as gorgeous necklaces. Our chains epitomize ‘fashion meets Function.’ A single chain can be worn in many different ways and our customers LOVE that! An 18k gold plated chain can be worn as a mask chain, a sunglass chain and also be converted into a beautiful necklace. We keep expanding our product lines – introducing other jewelry categories and, most recently, Crossbody Phone Chains that attach to any cellphone regardless of phone or case!
While the online direct-to-consumer business thrives through our online store www.miamichainsco.com, a large part of our business has evolved into wholesale. Miami Chains & Co are now sold in over 300 retail stores throughout USA, Canada & Mexico. We have partnered up with some major industry players. We have signed with a Canadian Sales Agency who handles all retail stores across Canada, as well as two showrooms in the States who represent the brand & coordinate much of our wholesale orders. Demand has been global – I have even become accustomed to seeing orders placed from abroad like Paris, London, Israel, Mumbai & Kuwait.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I am originally from Montreal, Quebec. I attended McGill University and received a Bachelor of Commerce with a Major in Marketing & Entrepreneurship. Even as a young girl, I was always into fashion, so I just merged my fashion sense with my entrepreneurial spirit and marketing background to launch this idea and turn it into a business.
Pricing:
- Prices range from $18 to $60
Contact Info:
- Email: miamichainsco@gmail.com
- Website: www.miamichainsco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miamichainsco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MiamiChainsCo/
