Founded in 2006 in New York City, Odette's journey began with founder Jennifer Sarkilahti, an artist initially drawn to the vibrant painting scene in Manhattan. She soon discovered a new passion that would transform her career and life. "I fell into jewelry design almost by accident," Jennifer recalls. "After earning my MFA in Painting from George Mason University, I was drawn to the vibrant energy of New York City. During that time, I began buying jewelry supplies out of curiosity and started experimenting with assembling pieces."
This exploration evolved into a profound fascination with the lost wax technique, a method that allows for the creation of intricate sculptures in wax, which are then cast into metal. This discovery was the catalyst for the birth of her brand Odette, leading to the establishment of a Brooklyn studio and a decade-long journey of selling jewelry.
Jennifer's artistic background has played a crucial role in her approach to jewelry design. Each piece starts as a sketch, inspired by her surroundings and experiences. She then meticulously carves the design into wax, refining every detail before it is cast into metal. This process allows her to create intricate and unique pieces that stand out in the world of jewelry.
"Over the years, I've been fortunate to see Odette worn by notable figures like Taylor Swift and Tracee Ellis Ross, which has been amazing," Jennifer shares. "A standout moment for me was when Michelle Obama wore Odette earrings during her book tour for 'Becoming.' It felt like a significant milestone and a validation of the hard work I’ve put into my craft."
The bustling city life eventually gave way to a yearning for tranquility. "While I appreciated the hustle and bustle of city life, my husband and I had two small children which made us seek a quieter environment," she explains. "We had friends who had moved to the area, and we often visited them on weekends, drawn in by the area’s stunning beauty—it truly felt like a hidden gem."
The move did not cause Jennifer to sever ties with her NYC showroom but instead provided a harmonious work-life balance. While the move to Bedford was primarily driven by a desire for a better quality of life for her family, it also had a profound impact on Odette as a brand.
"The sense of community here is unlike anywhere else I’ve lived," Jennifer notes. "I’m continually meeting interesting people up here and have formed meaningful connections with a group of creative women. Collaborating with them has been incredibly inspiring and has pushed me to think outside the box."
This new setting allowed her to balance her roles as a mother and an artist more effectively, leading to a renewed passion for her work.
Looking to the future, Jennifer envisions expanding Odette's reach while maintaining the integrity and craftsmanship that define the brand. "It’s hard to believe I’ve been making jewelry for 18 years! Each time I see my designs transformed from wax to metal, I still feel a thrill," she admits. Always seeking innovation in the jewelry space, she is excited to continue pushing boundaries, as her creativity drives the brand.
In her free time, Jennifer enjoys spending time in Upper Westchester with her friends and family. You can find her playing tennis, visiting farmers markets, or stopping by some of her favorite local businesses like Folkways, Tavern at Bedford Post Inn, LMNOP, Duchess, Be Well, and Our North.
"Each time I see my designs transformed from wax to metal, I still feel a thrill."