about laurel & Co.

MEET THE MAKER

Hi, I am Allie Rodriguez, the creator and maker behind Laurel & Co. With a long history in working with mixed metals and precious stones, I founded Laurel & Co. in 2019 to bring my love of accessories and everyday, wearable art to life.

I first started studying the art of metalsmithing in 2009 and later went on to earn a degree in Jazz Performance as a vocalist, but never stopped pursuing my passion of working with metal. After college, I stepped away from the arts and took the initiative to travel throughout Central America and eventually found myself teaching English in Nicaragua, later taking on a position to help encourage and support others in their quest to travel internationally. I firmly believe travel and the ability to immerse ourselves in a culture other than our own enables us to be more empathetic, culturally aware, and can often times provide the opportunity to take a more critical eye towards our own culture. I have no doubt my time spent in Nicaragua influences my aesthetic as I design pieces for Laurel & Co.

After my time abroad, I came back to Denver to pursue a career in the non-profit world, but ultimately learned that that was not where my heart laid. I missed my creative outlet - working with my hands everyday and turning something flat and lifeless into an intriguing, wearable piece of art. So, in March of 2019 I took the plunge and started making jewelry again - at the time, not completely understanding that this new “side hustle” of mine would turn into a full-time job and business that I am now so proud to have built.

As I continue to live in Denver, I am still working to build Laurel & Co. and notice myself finding inspiration in my southwest upbringing and love of antiques - drawn to shades of turquoise, tarnished metals, and the contrasts of color and textures found through day to day life.

There will be more to come for Laurel & Co., but I thank you for being here, in this moment, and supporting this small, woman owned business.

Artist statement:

Laurel & Co. was inspired by Laurel - an always fashionable, well accessorized lady, whom I am fortunate enough to call “mom”. The pieces I’ve created for this shop are for fellow accessory lovers - those of you that want a pop of color to contrast your hair or black dress, or a unique statement ring to draw attention to your hands and newly manicured nails.

Contrast is key at Laurel & Co., as well as the importance of well-made, comfortable jewelry. The way a green patina contrasts brass and copper, as well as the contrast of silver and gold, are some of my favorite styles when designing jewelry.

While I am inspired by Laurel, I hope you are inspired by Laurel & Co. - mix and match colors, wear bold jewelry, and feel confident and comfortable while doing so!