In a special series, please check out our feature on these wonderful local businesses, non-profits and artists who bring local loveliness to us all! Please enjoy meeting Debra Fabian, owner of Debra Fabian Jewelry Design out of Arlington, Virginia.
Gypsy Dance
Tell us about yourself. (Who are you/ What is your business name?)
My name is Debra Fabian and my business is Debra Fabian Jewelry Design.
https://www.debrafabianjewelry.com
What has it been like with the Covid19/ Quarantine Scenario and how have you had to pivot your business?
The Covid 19 Q has definitely disrupted my business.
The boutiques I have jewelry in had to cancel spring orders and my jewelry shows obviously have been cancelled. I am especially disappointed in the Show at the Kennedy Center which
Has been a new and very successful venue for me. Also, Mother’s Day is a big holiday for me .
So, I made lemonade out of lemons…
I updated my website and my customer e-mailing format which has been on my “to do” list for years.
Finally had the time. This has already helped . Plus I have been engaging in social media more than I did.
Have you always had the entrepreneurial spirit?
I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit. I was head designer at a lingerie/sleepwear company in NYC. My late husband was from NYC and
He wanted to move to Washington/NOVA .I started my jewelry making hobby into a business when we came here.
I have a BS in Design, major was fashion design and minor in fine arts so have always been involved in fashion.
Do you have a morning routine?
In the morning I have to have coffee and read a few chapters of a book to get myself going. Since I can’t go to the gym I do Les Mills Barre and Body Flow classes on line.
How do you think your company is different?
I think my company is different than other companies because I hand make, stand by and love each piece that I make. I do not order from another country and claim it to be my work.
I consider my jewelry “Attainable luxury for everyday” that is hand made in America. I have a very eclectic group of clients-much like my friends:)
My jewelry and packaging is modern and classic with a twist . I try to appeal to a broad range .
What problem are you solving?
Since people don’t really need jewelry, especially now, I don’t know what problems I am solving! However, I am very good about helping people
Choose pieces for themselves or a gift. I customize jewelry for clients and people also come to me for styling and fashion tips. Also, I’m local so that means I
Am there for last minute procrastinating buyers.
Where is your favorite place to go in NoVa for a secret escape?
My secret escape is my patio which I love. It is wooded and still urban . I call my home the Urban Country Manor. I love getting THAI massages at Malee On Lee highway. That is another escape.
Tell us a secret about your company.
A secret about my company…hmmm….I sometimes ask my 14 yar old son Matthew for his opinion because he has a really good eye! And of course for some tech support.
If you weren’t running your business what would you be doing?
If I was not running my business, I would like to work at an eating disorder clinic. I suffered from anorexia and bulimia in my teens and twenties so I think I could help.
I jus do not have the Educational degree I would need for that, though. Otherwise, I would probably work in a boutique.
What is your life motto?
My life motto I guess would be perseverance. It is a quality I am so glad my son has as well. He lost his father at age 11 and all of his grandparents in the last couple of years
And he keeps plugging away. I am very proud of him. I have to gloat-he was accepted at Gonzaga College High School in WDC this fall.
When you started your company, did you have an idea about what would go into the day to day?
Since In went to design school and was a designer for my livelihood, I had a good idea what my day to day would be and it also worked well for starting a family.
Do you have a favorite instagram?
I like Bishop Boutique Instagram . The owner is very funny and has a great style .
Do you have a favorite hike and bike trail?
I walk on the bike trail with my beagle, Fiesta, every day.
What fitness regimen do you follow?
I am a Barre girl , like yoga and Zumba only if it is a fabulous instructor.
What trends do you think we should be looking at now?
I am definitely a shoe and jean aholic. I like high waisted crop , thong kitten heels and the clunky Birkenstock esqe trend right now. Of course with my jewelry.
What is your style?
My style is classic with a twist. If I wear something boho , I complement it with something tailored. If I wear something sexy I complement with preppy etc.
For instance a leather jacket I wear with pearls .
3What is your favorite food?
My favorite foods are quiche and truffle risotto. Need to have wine with it , though.
Do you have a favorite local hotspot?
I like the restaurant, SER. The food, décor and staff plus I can walk to it!
