When crafting her jewelry, Boulderite Kacey Redwine draws inspiration from many places. From her time living in the Virgin Islands to receiving encouragement from family, friends and the community, Indigo Red Designs epitomizes so much more than just accessories.
Founded in 2020 in the midst of a global pandemic, a time where most businesses were shutting down, Indigo Red Designs was just getting started. Kacey drew on her visual arts background and love of gemstones to help initiate this new adventure. What began on Etsy developed into a local standout, appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds. One of Kacey’s main goals in developing Indigo Red Designs was to make the product widely accessible. “Gemstones are not exactly cheap. I’ve always tried to figure out how to incorporate it so that everybody can buy them,” she tells me. Confidence and self-expression are two elements at the core of Indigo Red Designs, both of which are ever-present in the gemstones Kacey selects.
Becoming an entrepreneur did not come without its difficulties. Once society began to adapt to a new normal with COVID, so did Kacey and her business. A kindergarten and preschool teacher for almost 25 years, Kacey felt the biggest challenge emerged when she had to resume work full-time. “I had established a business, and everybody expected certain things… It was like learning how to basically have two jobs and three kids and just keep going.” Kacey’s community following, however, rallied behind her in support.“ Everybody was very receptive. My Instagram went crazy… I was kind of like, oh okay, well I can do this!”
Indigo Red Designs is a Black, woman-owned business. Kacey cites women’s unwavering ability to show up for one another as one of her main sources of motivation and inspiration. A huge factor, though, in deciding Kacey’s purpose is her children. “As a mom of three young Black boys, I’m continuously striving to show them that hard work, determination, and positive thinking make all the difference in every aspect of life.” Kacey, her family, and business are examples of the importance of staying true to who you are and owning your story.
Stories can be found in the most subtle of places. Many of the stones Kacey chooses for her pieces have significant meaning and there are often cards in tandem with the jewelry, explaining the story behind each gem. There is moonstone for clarity, turquoise for protection and so much more. Kacey uses ethically sourced gemstones from all over the world, increasing the level of nuance of each intricate design.
Here at Jlounge, we value individuality, creativity, and self-expression. Supporting small and woman-owned businesses is at the forefront of our mission and we pride ourselves in promoting and selling brands like Indigo Red Designs. Jlounge carries a variety of Kacey’s pieces, ranging from earrings to bracelets and necklaces. We encourage the Boulder community to pay us a visit and shop small!
Be sure to check out Kacey’s website https://indigoreddesigns.com/ or visit her on Instagram @indigoreddesigns.