About

Welcome! I'm so happy you've arrived. Since you're here I'm guessing you too are someone who finds deep connection at sea.

You live for long warm days, sun-kissed skin, and hair styled by the saltwater and tradewinds. That unmatched emerald blue sea. The silence when you slip beneath the water's surface. Nostalgic moments that touch your soul. In a place where you can just be - where no words are needed and time doesn't exist. 
Each time you meet the ocean, it's like a returning home.

If this sounds like you, welcome! You're in the right place.


Hey there, I’m Leslie…
and I make handmade jewelry inspired by the magic of the sea. It's the place where I feel most accepted and where my mind falls completely silent. A place of wonder, hope, adventure, and magic. And it's from this place that I'm most inspired to create.

I try to start each day in the ocean, then return to my bench. Before creating, I sit in meditation and set an intention daily to be a vessel for creation; to let each breath guide my hands to dictate what's created.

Before landing as a lost wax artist, I first became a GIA gemologist, dabbled in manufacturing abroad, and worked in retail for luxury jewelry brand Graff. But it was always back at the bench where I could really soften back into the feeling of magic...

I create for the ones who:
  • cherish slow moments and time in nature, disconnected from the digital realm
  • value comfort and ease in their dress and don’t follow fashion trends
  • love jewelry that makes them feel unique, radiant and empowered
  • live for moments when time disappears

Each day, I go to the sea and reconnect with the feeling of wonder and connection it brings.
I'm inspired daily by the process of recognizing the magic, and recommitting to self love - which I’ve learned are one in the same. It often takes some unearthing and exploring, but I believe we all have something that makes us feel alive, lucid, dialed into the now. That circles us back to the magic.
I hope to translate these feelings through my jewelry so that you may carry reminders of curiosity, wonder and magic with you whenever you choose to put them on.

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When I'm not in the studio, you can find me out freediving, surfing, making art, taking roadtrips with my partner, and trying out new recipes at home.
Studio Aki is just me, Leslie. It was born in Hawaii and is deeply influenced by the islands' healing turquoise waters, sunshine on the skin, and days spent with friends in the sea. I make each piece one by one and love moving slowly and intentionally. 

I'm so thankful you're here and I hope my work resonates with the part of you that, like me, continues to seek the extraordinary in the ordinary. 

With love,
Leslie
 
PS, I'd love to know what adventures you've gone on with your cherished pieces of jewelry! Come connect and share with me on Instagram at @studio_aki_