We know you'll love this maker just as much as we do. Scroll down to meet Sarah March and learn about Louie Prior Upcycled Jewelry.
Makers:
Sarah March of Louie Prior Upcycled Jewelry
Neighborhood:
I live in Washington, PA, I’m originally from the UK and I’ve lived here since 2002. I have a genuine love of Pittsburgh for many reasons- I love that it’s contained by such a cool confluence of river systems, I love the skyline especially on a warm summer’s night, I love the gritty resilience of the people and I love both the music and the food scene. Every city has issues but few have as much pride as this one
Tell us about your brand and why it’s the best
I believe my ‘niche’ in the large world of jewelry design is that I create (often co-designing with a client), unique pieces using upcycled objects/ jewelry (that hold for the client nostalgic meaning) at an affordable price.
What is your background and the story behind why you started Louie Prior?
My Mother had an antique shop at the front of our home, so I grew up going to auction houses and antique markets; hunting down, cleaning, repairing and marveling at antique treasures. I started beading when my kids were young as a creative outlet, alongside working for an auction house in the evenings. That’s when I had the idea of combining the glorious glut of beautifully produced costume jewelry in the world with my beading into contemporary designs that can be enjoyed again.
What one product do we need to know about and why?
I am very happy to have a collection of shell jewelry at Love Pittsburgh- Shell jewelry is one of this Summer’s hot looks- in the past this style has been primarily in the Boho domain; this year it’s had a sophisticated make-over. All of my pieces use vintage shell jewelry from the 70’s that I have broken down or shells I’ve picked up from the beach with naturally eroded holes and I’ve combined these with metal upcycled components. Some in particular have pieces from a gorgeous necklace I found at the Washington Antique fair. It has all the qualities I love- simple lines, a matte, burnished finish and looks great alongside natural elements such as shells. Here’s a pair of earrings that are similar to the ones at the store, these combine those beautiful matte links with 60’s shell montages recycled from clip-on earrings. (Modelled by Tupelo)
In three words, Why do you love Pittsburgh?
Yinzer pride rules.
How can people find out more about Louie Prior?
New improved website coming soon. You can find me most actively on Instagram @Prior1969 and Facebook at Louie Prior. Email me at sarahmarch29@gmail.com if you would like to be added to my Mailchimp mailing list for upcoming event etc.
