Melanie Lester

I've been in the jewelry industry for over 30 years, and it's been an incredible journey that started right out of college. This became more than just a job - it helped me raise my kids and became a true passion that I never wanted to leave. I've had the opportunity to dabble in a little bit of everything in this field. I learned how to set stones and solder, so I really understand the background of repair work, which I think is very important when you're working in the jewelry industry. That knowledge helps me on the custom design side and also on the sales floor when I'm explaining things to clients. But what I love most is the people aspect - the passion of getting to know people, finding out their story, and building relationships with everyone who walks through the door. I've been with Mystique Jewelers since 2017, where I specialize in custom bridal design. I love creating engagement rings that are unique for each person, so they walk away with something that nobody else has. We have a CAD department that allows us to make bridal pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind based on what each client is asking for. Before Mystique, I worked at Jewelry by Designs in Woodbridge, and prior to that, I spent 17 years at TK Dodrell Jewelers in West Virginia - that was my beginning in this industry. I owe a little bit to each place I've ever worked for, because I've taken away something valuable from each business and grown with them. They've all been family-owned businesses, and I love that family-owned atmosphere. I have three daughters and one stepdaughter - a house full of women who all love that their mom is a jewelry designer. My daughter once told me that 'your network is your worth,' and I think that's so true. The more people you meet, the bigger your world gets, and the bigger you can grow your network, the bigger your wealth can grow - and not just in money, but in spirit and health and everything else.