Making bling a thing of joy
Chanuki’s eco friendly packaging
Finding extra time on her hands owing to the pandemic, Chanuki Menoli found herself experimenting and researching the art of making handmade jewellery, specifically earrings. Having always been passionate about accessorising and upping the bling factor with what she was wearing, she began her label ‘Ilaria’ which means joy.
“Whenever I buy new jewellery I feel over the moon! I wanted to share a positive meaning behind the jewellery I make and simply hope that everyone who buys and wears them will feel as much joy as it brings me when I make them,” Chanuki shares with us.
An event coordinator who has worked at one of Sri Lanka’s leading wedding planning companies for almost five years, Chanuki draws inspiration from the people she has met and the destinations she has travelled to. Although very much in love with her current career, Chanuki says that she is glad that this time has given her the opportunity to create and run her own label and calls it one of God’s blessings.
“I try to stay in line with contemporary trends by researching on social media, and getting feedback from my customers and friends. At the same time, I want my designs to be unique because personally, when I shop I go for designs which I have not seen much. I do a balance of both, so it’s a win-win for everyone,” Chanuki says.
Her designs ranges from bohemian chic and colourful to the sophisticated and casual. Her own personal style for the day depends on her mood.
Ilaria already has a range of collections to choose from with earrings made out of polymer clay, resin, beads and cotton thread. However she hopes to expand to materials such as recycled clothes, wood, and types of wire in the future.
“My mom has played a huge role in my passion for jewellery because she used to run her own salon, so we used to closely observe her whenever she got dolled up or dressed someone up. My sister and I also played dress up wearing my mom’s jewellery and makeup,” Chanuki reminisces.
Chanuki’s creations: Embodying her style and latest trends
It is this same family who has been supportive throughout Ilaria’s inception a few months ago. While Chanuki works on designing, purchasing supplies and making the earrings herself, her family helps with packaging, taking photographs and sharing inspirations found on social media, while also keeping a close check on quality.
Running a small business amidst a pandemic is not easy, let alone starting one. Chanuki’s main challenge during this time has been purchasing raw materials. Before, she used to use online platforms to purchase a variety of products. However, when it comes to her brand, she wants to ensure the product is of high quality and durable. Purchasing online always carries the risk of not receiving what’s expected and the difficulty of trusting the credibility of the vendor because the materials cannot be examined in person, she explains.
Even her packaging is eco-friendly. She also follows safety measures like wearing gloves, mask, eye protecting shields when creating her products due to the prevailing situation.
Chanuki has been receiving a positive feedback so far from customers and hopes the business will grow– having her own work office out of home being the first goal. “ I want to expand to other ranges of jewellery someday while exploring new methods and constantly challenging myself to deliver better than yesterday,” she says optimistically looking into the future.
Check out Ilaria both on Instagram and Facebook @ilaria.bychanuki and vamp up your accessory collection!