Today we’d like to introduce you to Elena Mendez.
Hi Elena, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
lena Designs started in February of last year, at a moment in my life when I felt this deep need to create something meaningful with my hands. I had just, gone through a lot of personal changes, and I kept returning to the same thought: I wanted to build something that felt like me, something connected to my roots, my creativity, and the women in my family.
My grandmother Elena, who passed away shortly before, was a huge source of inspiration. We shared the same name, and honoring her became the heart of this project.
What started as a simple idea making jewelry for fun, with freshwater pearls and gold-plated details , slowly grew into something much bigger.
At first I was creating pieces at home, posting on Instagram, selling little by little, and learning everything, from photographing my work, to packing orders, to showing up at local markets. I didn’t know anyone in the Miami creative community when I moved here from Austin, so every market, every pop-up, every customer connection became part of the journey of building this dream from scratch
Over time, my brand took shape: handcrafted, intentional pieces that feel personal, feminine, and connected to nature. Pearls became my signature because they remind me of softness and elegance. Each piece is made by hand, one by one, and many are completely unique just like the women who wear them.
Today, Elena Designs has grown in ways I never imagined. I sell through my website, collaborate with local shops and creators, and participate in Miami markets almost every week. The most rewarding part has been seeing my pieces become part of someone’s everyday life or special moments. That sense of connection is what keeps me going.
I’m still a small business owner learning as I grow, but that’s part of the beauty of it. Elena Designs was born from love, nostalgia, and a desire to create something intentional and every step since then has been about showing up, staying true to my story, and building a brand that feels warm, personal, and handmade.
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 definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I think like any journey, there have been ups and downs, moments of doubt, and days where I question myself my talent, my designs, or the way I’m doing things. Starting this business completely on my own has been a huge learning experience.
I had to figure everything out from zero: creating the pieces, taking photos, doing markets, managing my website, talking to clients… all of it.
And honestly, there are times when I wonder if I’m growing fast enough or if I’m making the right moves. Being a one-woman business can feel overwhelming.
But then I see my clients the way they wear my pieces, the messages they send me, how they visit me at markets just to say hi and it gives me so much emotion and motivation. It reminds me why I started and why I love what I do.
So no, it hasn’t been easy at all. But every challenge has pushed me to grow, and every little win makes the whole journey worth it.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a jewelry designer and the founder of Elena Designs, a handmade jewelry brand based in Miami. I create delicate, feminine pieces using freshwater pearls, gold tones, and beach-inspired details. Every piece is made by hand, and many are one-of-a-kind or produced in very small batches.
What I’m most proud of is the intention behind my work. My brand was born in honor of my grandmother, and that personal story is woven into everything I create. I want my pieces to feel meaningful — not just beautiful, but emotional and timeless. What sets me apart is how personal my process is. I don’t mass-produce or follow every trend; I focus on creating pieces that feel special and unique. Many clients tell me that wearing my jewelry feels like having something made just for them, and that truly means the world to me.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I definitely haven’t done this alone. My significant other has been my number one supporter throughout this entire journey. He goes with me to markets, helps with everything behind the scenes, and honestly works for free most of the time . I couldn’t be more grateful for him.
I’ve also been lucky to meet incredible women who have played a huge role in my growth. One of them is Adriana Brito, a fellow accessories designer who became one of my best friends. We share the same passion, and having someone who truly understands this creative world has been such a blessing.
My coach, Vivi, who owns a beautiful flower truck business here in Miami , has also been a big mentor for me. I love how creative she is and how much she has taught me about trusting my ideas and expanding my vision. Livy, who helps me with social media, has been another key person — she brings so much talent and fresh energy to my brand. And Izzy came into my business like a little angel, helping me with PR and believing in me in ways I will always appreciate.
And of course, my family and my partner’s family have been my first supporters, my first clients, and the people who cheer for me the loudest. Their love has carried me through every step of this journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elenadesigns.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenadesigns.co/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Elena-Designs/100071473908038/
