Rileyhaus

We would like to introduce to our readers a singular force in unique bespoke jewelry unlike anything else we know.  Amy, working under her brand Rileyhaus, is a profoundly inspired designer and maker of intensely researched artisanal pieces which exude authenticity and nostalgia. Amy’s creations are rare and explore how new stories can be written with vintage elements. Read our interview to learn more and see some of our favorite pieces.

Tell us about Rileyhaus and how did your journey begin? 

Rileyhaus began as a destination unknown passion project. At that time in my life I was in need of a fulfilling escape without limits, so I decided to build my own mini dream world. Rileyhaus as a platform started off as my own visual diary filled with all that brought me joy — photography, art, design, poetry, and the world’s wonders of beauty. I have a colorful background in many fields of creative training and influence, but I found myself feeling lost and was struggling to pick a single path that thrilled me most. When I began exploring design, it felt like a fire was lit within me. I am a very nostalgic person and I noticed that the jewelry today is very clearly lacking nostalgia. I was someone who was seeking to invest in designs that had depth and found the jewelry market to be overwhelming and frankly, kind of boring. Nothing had a heart, was innovative or unique. It was difficult to determine which brands were authentic, and I could never clearly tell who was actually physically making the pieces — doing the labor and design. In a world of rising designers like Bode, Rodarte, and Wiederhoeft I am proud to follow their paved path of sustainable design that embraces vintage qualities and sincerely loves the work. I am proud to be pursuing thoughtful and unique design for the fellow art lovers in the world like me.

What was your biggest influence and inspiration to make jewelry?

Jewelry making felt like a magnetic pull, but the biggest influence and inspiration inadvertently came from my mom. When my parents moved out of my childhood home, my mom handed me bins and bags of her old jewelry, not knowing what to do with it all. Much of it was mismatched, broken, and out of “style”. It became fun to reimagine those pieces. I gave them a new story with a new life and immediately fell in love with designing jewelry. The name Rileyhaus is a blend of my own and my dear late grandmother Katherine’s maiden name. Riley means "valiant and brave" which is what this brand means to me.

Each piece is so unique and intricately crafted. Can you tell us about how you approach each design?

Thank you! Each unique Riley piece is intricately designed and handcrafted by me stemming from up-cycled vintage and antique materials that bloom into luxury, often one-of-a-kind pieces. My vision for Rileyhaus is continuously influenced by nature, art, high fashion, and the unique human experience. My process, like my pieces, is unique each time. I love beginning with a visual mood board, sometimes I sketch out some raw ideas. Most often however, and I might add, the most fulfilling times are when I sit down at my desk with no agenda, no prompt, no idea what materials I’ll use or how the design will be executed and I know it’s finished when I feel it is distinctively captivating to my own eyes.

What materials do you use and where do you source them from?

I take pride in executing design with quality materials and techniques that have longevity, rarity, and natural beauty. I do a lot of research, I always wished I had studied art history so Rileyhaus has embraced historical influence within its composition. My search for materials often begins online through various venues, but doesn't stop there. Almost like an archeologist uncovering artifacts, I scour through in-person markets, spend hours peering through antique store glass cases, and eventually the perfect elements with beautiful character — often kismet — find their way to me. 

What are the core values of Rileyhaus?

Rileyhaus values authenticity, character, art, history, exploration, and emotion. My designs embrace historic artisanal elements while offering a new meaningful story. With an emphasis in slow fashion and sustainability, my work aims to communicate, inspire and evoke feeling when worn. I am a one-woman owned brand committed to creating avant-garde, soulful works of art with intense care. 

What advice would you give to someone picking a piece of jewelry for their event / wedding?

You deserve to feel the most special on a most special day of your life. I think the advice is similar to what I’d give to anyone selecting a wedding gown! For this one day of your life you are the main character, the belle of the ball, there are no rules, so why not indulge in wearing whatever you want? Why not wear what you feel great in, why not wear what excites you? Relish in the opportunity to select pieces you cherish, that feel unique to your own personal style and the journey that got you to this celebratory day of love. 

Do you offer custom designs? 

Yes! I do quite a lot of custom designs — often for brides! A wedding is such a monumental moment in a person's life that is so deeply personal. Custom work allows me to connect on a richer level with each client and I can therefore better understand the unique individual I am designing for! The goal with custom design is to create something heartfelt and special beyond each person's own wildest dreams.

What is your hope for the future of Rileyhaus?

I hope to continue to bloom, learn, and explore on my design journey. I hope my work continues to resonate with people that value and appreciate the unique work I am doing. And I hope to continue to find a sense of community with other creatives that want to lift eachother up.

A favorite quote?

I can’t lie! I don’t think I have one! (EEK!) But what comes to mind are two things my late grandmothers have famously remarked: “I feel so special and loved” and “when I come back, I’m going to do what I want”. These life lessons feel like important reminders I am constantly coming back to whenever I am seeking guidance. I want to continue to lead a life I am proud of where I am lucky to pursue what I love to do. To genuinely love and feel liberated in life — what could be better than that? It is difficult to succeed as a woman in this world, I have chosen to feel fearlessly and pursue my dreams! I hope people can relate to that.

To find out more @rileyhaus_ / rileyhaus.com