A coffee with Fotini
Hi Fotini, welcome to the Lepelclub journal. We’re so happy to have you here with us! First thing’s first, can you tell us a little more about yourself?
So, I grew up in Glyfada, a seaside suburb of Athens- Greece. I have been living here for all my life, and would not change it to be honest!
What was the inspiration for your jewellery brand, Mathe Jewellery?
I started Mathe 5 years ago, as a part time hobby, (I have been experimenting with making my own jewelry for a few years) and pretty soon I left my everyday job to focus on growing the brand! (I was working for several years as a visual merchandiser at a fast fashion brand, and quitting that job is a decision I will never regret!)
All your pieces are handmade, which is incredible! From where do you draw design inspiration?
Certainly living in Greece with all the sea and sun has been a major inspiration for my designs , but generally I would say I don’t draw inspiration from one particular theme – I also change my mind really really often , so you will see something different from us every season – but everything is centered -of course- around pearls!
What have been the most challenging, and most rewarding, parts of founding and growing your business?
For the most challenging parts I would definitely say it’s handling all things that have to do with finances and accounting – thank God we have people for that!
And for the most rewarding, my heart is full when I see people all around the world wearing our jewellery, or whenever we receive good feedback, it is still hard to believe that a piece of jewelry made by my own hands has traveled the world to reach a customer, and I am so thankful for that everyday!
Mathe Jewellery is worn by many big names, such as influencers like Matilda Djerf. How have you drawn such attention to your pieces?
Working with influencers has been a true blessing for Mathe!
When I started the brand , it came to my notice at an early stage, that working with these girls is essential for grow so I started reaching out for PR packages.
It was not easy and there was a lot of rejection too!
Matilda holds a special place in my heart, after she wore The Surf’s Up Necklace our business blew up and I will be forever grateful for that!
I am so grateful to each and every one that they have supported us through the years and helped make Mathe what It is today!
What is your go-to drink to accompany a jewellery-making day?
I always work with a cup of coffee by my side!
And finally, how are you planning to stir things up in the future?
In the future I am looking to grow the brand even more, and who knows? Maybe next summer if you visit Greece, you can shop from us IRL!
Thanks so much again for having me Jill!