Dark Laydee Designs is handcrafted by mixed Stó:lō artist, Andee Jasper in her home studio located on the traditional, unceded territory of the Semiahmoo First Nation (White Rock, BC). Combining her background in fashion with her heritage of crafting, she started Dark Laydee Designs in the Spring of 2019 as a way to connect with her culture and community. Andee has a degree in Fashion Design & Technology, and has worked in the fashion industry for many years until she was drawn into jewelry making. Shortly after that, Dark Laydee Designs was born. Andee is continuously looking for ways to push the boundaries to come up with innovative pieces that have never been seen before, while still including authentic techniques and materials. She puts a contemporary spin on traditional beadwork and incorporates reclaimed leather into her work, making her jewelry dynamic in texture, playful in colour and magnificent in size. Andee hopes for customers to embrace the power of adornment when they wear Dark Laydee pieces, to never be afraid to stand out and make a statement!
Question: How are you supporting other local businesses?
Answer: I try to shop local as much as possible, whether it’s for personal purchases or for Dark Laydee Designs. Almost all of my supplies come from local businesses, which include Beazu, Hand & Sew Leather Goods, Strung Out on Beads, and Eddies Hang-Up Display, just to name a few. Some of my favourite shops that carry local artisans include Good Omen and Raven’s Veil (Dark Laydee Designs is stocked here), and of course, I love supporting artisans directly through pop-up shops around the city! As small business owners, I believe it’s important to support one another, especially knowing first hand how much time and effort goes into creating products AND running a business. Having this knowledge gives us a deeper appreciation for the products we are purchasing. Choosing to support local businesses means building a sustainable economy and establishing strong community connections.
Question: What social and environmental practices are you proud of?
Answer: When it comes to environmental practices, my pieces have always used reclaimed/upcycled leather. For those who may not be familiar, upcycling is the process of transforming waste or unwanted products that may otherwise be thrown away, into new materials or products. So for my jewelry, I reuse and take apart pieces like leather clothing and interior design swatches to transform them into wearable art, which keeps them from going into the landfill! Most local leather shops have a scrap bin section that I pick from as well instead of buying large new pieces of leather. I also love doing trades with other makers for supplies they may no longer need & vice versa, preventing them from going unused. As far as social practices go, my vision and long-term goal for Dark Laydee Designs from the beginning was to be able to sell my jewelry and give back to the Indigenous community. It’s been a few years since I started this journey but I can happily say now that I’ve been able to raise money for U.N.Y.A (Urban Native Youth Association) this past Holiday season, by donating a percentage of my sales to the organization. Keeping Indigenous programming alive and well, especially youth programs, is so important to me because as I started reconnecting in my teenage years, many of the Indigenous youth programs I was a part of never lasted that long due to funding shortages. I saw the effects that it had on the community and how many kids weren’t given the opportunity of having those safe spaces to flourish. Connection to culture is so powerful, no matter what your background. As I continue to grow my business, I will continue giving back to the community.
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Woman Owned, Indigenous Owned