Nicole Zusi has been creating jewelry for the past decade, with the process serving as an expressive channel to her busy life. It is her goal to create pieces that provide a polished everyday look. Her business, Forlanya offers carefully crafted pieces that are demi-fine jewelry consisting of gold-fill vermeil, sterling silver & semi precious stones. All findings are globally sourced, handcrafted & artisanal. Forlanya offers an array of bracelets, necklaces, and earrings as well as beautiful collections for customers to choose from. Darien Lifestyle spoke with Nicole to find out more about her unique, powerful jewelry company.
DL: Can you tell us a little bit about your business.
NZ: I believe all women have both a playful and sophisticated personality and my designs reflect bringing out both. I love the juxtaposition of beautiful amazing quality precious metals and mixed media. I started my entirely handmade artisanal jewelry business to celebrate and elevate women. I truly feel if you make an effort to look good, you feel good about yourself, and the simple act of accessorizing makes you look effortlessly put together.
DL: What makes your business unique from others?
NZ: Each and every collection is entirely handmade from design concept to packaging. I draw ideas from my proximity of the streets of Manhattan to worldwide travel. There is nothing more inspiring than women owning their look and having confidence!
DL: What is something shoppers/readers might not know about your shop?
NZ: Forlanya means "for my daughter" in Hungarian. My grandmother, Eva, was a cosmetologist for elite socialists in Budapest and passed on her love of beauty and fashion to me, and I hope to pass that on to my daughter Alessandra.
DL: Tell us a little bit about the services you provide.
NZ: My website (forlanya.com) shows my most popular best sellers in each of the categories with some fun surprises coming up for Spring and Summer 2022, but I love working individually to create and design one of a kind custom pieces with customers. I am accessible at email (Nicole@forlanya.com) or through direct message on instagram (@forlanyajewelry) for a truly special piece!
DL: The importance of local businesses, is more vital than ever at this time, why should people shop at your store?
NZ: Each piece is carefully and meticulously sourced globally for quality and durability. There is a lifetime guarantee on each piece, and I can always resize or fix any piece, so you are shopping with confidence. I make each piece to order (customizable on the website!) and some designs or pieces are one of a kind and not even alike within pairs. You know you are getting or gifting an artisanal piece of work that starts conversations!