Today we’d like to introduce you to Andi Rothfeld.
Andi, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Sophia James Designs began in October 2019 with a simple idea—creating something meaningful and personal. I started making bracelets with my daughters’ names on them, just for myself. But soon, friends and coworkers started asking if I could make one for them too. What started as a single name bracelet quickly turned into a collection, beginning with gold beaded designs and growing from there.
The name Sophia James Designs holds deep personal meaning—it’s a combination of my daughters’ middle names. From the beginning, this business has been rooted in love, family, and connection.
In the early days, we shared our pieces solely through Instagram, connecting with customers one-on-one. About two years in, we launched our website to keep up with growing demand. During the pandemic, we found our community—other small businesses, loyal customers, and new friends—who supported and championed us through it all. Our business has been built entirely through word of mouth, and we’re so proud of the genuine connections we’ve made along the way.
Now, six years later, our line includes charm bracelets, our signature SJD charm necklaces, a full kids’ collection, and a boutique partnership. At our heart, we’re about creating beautiful, personal pieces that tell your story—and we love meeting new and returning clients who continue to be a part of ours.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Owning a small business comes with many challenges, especially as a solo entrepreneur. I design and handcraft all my jewelry while also managing marketing, social media, photography, shipping, customer service, and website updates. Since my business is primarily online, one of the biggest hurdles is getting my jewelry in front of the right customers and standing out in a crowded digital space. I also work outside of my business, so managing everything—from designing to daily operations—requires constant juggling. Much of my work happens at night and on weekends, which makes it difficult to maintain a clear balance between work and home life.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Sophia James Designs is a handmade jewelry brand inspired by personal connection, thoughtful design, and timeless style. I started the company in 2019, naming it after my daughters’ middle names. What began as a single name bracelet made just for myself quickly evolved into a full collection of gold beaded bracelets, charm necklaces, a kids’ line, and thoughtfully curated accessories.
Each piece is designed and handcrafted by me with care and attention to quality. We’re best known for our personalized and meaningful jewelry—especially our signature name and charm bracelets that allow customers to tell their story through beautiful, wearable pieces. What truly sets us apart is the heart and soul behind the brand. This is a one-woman business, and every order, photo, and package is touched by me. It’s a labor of love, driven by connection and creativity.
Our assortment includes both handmade designs and a curated collection of non-handmade pieces that reflect our brand’s aesthetic—providing more ways for customers to express their style. We also love creating custom jewelry and work hand-in-hand with our customers to design pieces that are truly unique and personal. From names and dates to special charms, every detail is thoughtfully chosen together.
What makes this journey even more meaningful is the involvement of my daughters. They’ve helped shape Sophia James Designs—not just in name, but in spirit. From joining me at markets and bracelet-making birthday parties to helping design our kids’ line, they’ve brought their own creativity and energy into the business. It’s truly a family affair.
We’ve grown organically through word of mouth and social media, building a loyal and supportive community. I’ve also had the joy of connecting with other small business owners along the way, and that spirit of collaboration has been a cornerstone of our growth. While we’re primarily online, we strive to create a warm, personal experience for each customer—one that reflects our values of connection, authenticity, and heart. We also organize fundraisers whenever possible to support disaster relief efforts or individuals in need.
I’m most proud that Sophia James Designs is more than just jewelry—it’s a brand rooted in family, storytelling, and community. When you shop with us, you’re not only supporting a small business, you’re becoming part of a story that celebrates meaning, memory, and love.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My family has been at the heart of my business from the very beginning. My husband and daughters are my biggest cheerleaders—whether it’s sending me off with encouragement before a show, helping with bracelet-making parties, or even being my fit models, they’ve been there every step of the way. My mom and sisters (and sis-in-law) have also played a huge role. From spreading the word about Sophia James Designs and proudly wearing my pieces around town, to jumping in to help with social media, they’ve supported me in more ways than I can count.
I also feel incredibly grateful for my friends, who have been some of my most loyal advocates. They constantly show up for me—sharing my work, referring new customers, hyping me up on social, and shopping every new launch. Their belief in me and in my brand has given me the confidence to keep growing.
And beyond my inner circle, the support from other small businesses has been invaluable. We’ve built a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who understand the ups and downs of running a small business. We lift each other up, whether it’s through collaborations, sharing each other’s products, or simply offering encouragement and advice. That sense of camaraderie and mutual support has been a key part of my journey, and I’m so grateful to be part of a community that celebrates one another’s success.
It truly takes a village, and I’m so thankful for mine.
Pricing:
- Name Bracelets $38 & up
- Necklaces $48 & up
- SJD Charm Necklaces $78 & up
- Paperclip Bracelets and Necklaces $54 & up
- Kids Necklaces $18 & up
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sophiajamesdesigns.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sophiajamesdesigns?igsh=bTM2eTE1a215Ynlt&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sophiajamesdesigns/
