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Scottsdale — This is not the first time Cassy's Sassy Jewelry has caught my attention. I first interviewed Cassy Saba a few years ago when the jewelry designer was 16-years-old. Now, as a 21-year-old, the entrepreneur has a blooming business, that even includes accessories for men. I recently caught up with Cassy to discuss her jewelry collection. Here's what she had to say:
The Chic Spy: When did you launch Cassy's Sassy Jewelry?
Cassy Saba: I started Cassy’s Sassy Jewelry at the age of 13. My business has grown significantly from when I first started.
TCS: What did you do after high school?
CS: After high school, I attended ASU [Arizona State University] to pursue my Bachelors degree in Marketing. I will actually graduate next month. I am so excited to finish and continue my career in the jewelry industry.
TCS: How has Cassy's Sassy Jewelry evolved since our last interview?
CS: First off, my pieces have evolved. I only design my one-of-a-kind pieces using the finest semi-precious stones, crystals, pearls, and sterling silver findings. Every time I design a piece of jewelry, I try to top the next one to make it even better. My business has become more popular nationwide. I sell my jewelry online and in stores throughout the country. I also do private trunk shows and design custom pieces.
TCS: How do you feel you have grown over the years as a designer?
CS: I feel like I have learned so much about the jewelry industry and the business skills it takes to be successful. I have grown to be a harder worker and always motivated to do better. I am a more mature designer as I get older as well.
TCS: What are some of the accomplishments you have had as a young designer and entrepreneur?
CS: I have been featured in over 40 national magazines. I also appeared on the Montel Williams show when I was 17-years-old. The segment was called, “Young Millionaires in the Making.” I have judged many fashion and jewelry events in the past, and have won different contests for my designs. The two awards I am most proud are the NFIB Young Entrepreneur Award and the Guardian Life Company Girl’s Going Places Award. Sometimes I think of myself as more of an entrepreneur than a designer.
TCS: You now design jewelry for men. What made you expand your collection to include men?
CS: Well, I had husbands starting to come to my trunk shows with their wives saying, “We both came together to buy some jewelry and she can get something, but I can’t!” I never really thought men were in the market for my style of jewelry, but I have definitely incorporated some great looks for guys. I don’t have a huge collection, but just enough chain and stone pieces to make guys happy.
TCS: What challenges have you met in growing your business?
CS: My biggest challenge has been balancing my education and my business. It has been very difficult to try to manage both of those priorities in my life, but college is almost done.
TCS: What is your favorite piece you have ever designed and why?
CS: My favorite piece I have ever designed was the necklace I wore on the Montel Williams show. The stones I created the necklace with were called Sleeping Beauty turquoise, which are rare stones. I designed a two-strand necklace with big turquoise stones and big clear crystals. It was so eye catching that a lady called me after the show and wanted to buy it off me. It was hard for me to sell it because it was my favorite piece, but I knew somebody would enjoy it just as much as I would. I suggested that she wear it with a bright color because the contrast of the jewel tones together would look amazing.
TCS: Have you spotted any celebrities in your jewelry?
CS: I have designed jewelry for a few celebrities and a couple of local news anchors.
TCS: If you could design a piece for anyone past or present, who would it be?
CS: Princess Diana in my eyes epitomized style and grace. She is a classy and influential woman that would model my jewelry nicely.
TCS: Where would you like to see your business in 5 years?
CS: I would like to continue to do trunk shows, and sell my pieces to stores nationwide. I can see myself doing most of my business on the east coast. I love New York.
TCS: Describe your jewelry designs in three words.
CS: Classy, Sassy, and unique.
TCS: List 5 tips in accessorizing for readers?
- If you are wearing a simple black dress, put on a statement necklace and you can turn your outfit from ordinary to extraordinary.
- You don’t always have to follow the trends if it doesn’t flatter your features.
- Don’t get rid of accessories very often, because the look usually comes back in.
- Your colors don’t always have to match perfectly, have fun with it!
- Allow two minutes in the morning to take a full look at your complete outfit and then at that time you will know whether or not you need to add something.
TCS: What accessory can you not live without?
CS: I can’t live without my diamond hoop earrings.
TCS: What's playing on your mp3 player?
CS: I am really into Mandisa right now. She is an amazing Christian singer and her music is so inspiring.
TCS: If you were a Chic Spy, what would your agent name be?
CS: Sassy Cassy
I look forward to seeing more from this designer on the rise!
Chicly Yours,
The Chic Spy
(Images courtesy of Cassy Saba)
