[masterslider id=”137″]

JA New York: How would you describe your brand to someone who is not familiar with it? Give us your “elevator pitch!”

Nataly Aponte: I begin with my Matchstick collection because that’s the core and DNA of the brand. Jewelry and inspiration merged together. We all have an internal fire that lives inside of us. The matchstick pendant allows you to personalize what that fire looks like. You select a metal, and then a gemstone. The gemstone is the color of your fire. There are inspirational taglines relating to fire that you choose to have engraved on the back of your matchstick. They serve as a subtle reminder of someone’s past or future aspirations. A personal message to yourself. Matchsticks are for everyone. Start-A-Fire!

JA New York: Do you have a particular wearer in mind when you’re designing?

NA: I let my aesthetic eye, and the moment lead me. I choose shapes and colors that I’m attracted to. Every creation I want to wear, and the “wearer” will connect in their own way. My biggest focus is how the piece feels and looks when it’s on. Paying  attention to function, weight, and of course beauty are key. Jewelry is an adornment. Its and extension of you. It should accent you in the best way possible. You really don’t want to be wearing pieces that are uncomfortable, and especially ones that don’t suite you.  

JA New York: What is your biggest source of design inspiration?

NA: Architecture and Interior design. Fabrics, patterns and textures. Art deco and vintage hollywood glamour.

JA New York: What is one thing that can always make you smile?

NA: Music. My music collection is  very eclectic, with an expanding catalogue of vinyl records. The first thing I do when get home is drop my bags, light a candle, press play and the mood is instantly changed. Music is very powerful.   

JA New York: If you could be a TV/ Movie villain who would you be and why?

NA: Any Joan Crawford character. Her movies were so over the top dramatic. The dresses, jewels, and furs-amazing. I would welcome the script.      

JA New York: If you could spend one day in somebody else’s shoes, whom would it be and why?

NA: Probably someone less fortunate than me. We are all guilty of taking things for granted at one time or another, or not being satisfied with what we have. I think a little wake up call every now and then is good, and keeps things in perspective. 

JA New York: Do you have a “special skill” that people don’t know about?

NA: I would hope that my special skill is being revealed through my designs.