We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexandra Krus and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexandra, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I had no intention of forming BRIGHT when I first started making jewelry. I only became interested in jewelry-making because I had a pair of earrings I wanted to redesign. Once I realized how satisfying the creative process is, I started making earrings for friends, who then encouraged me to start my own business.

What should our readers know about your business?
I didn’t give too much thought to the challenge of establishing my own business – I knew I wanted to keep it as small as possible and did not have any deadlines. However, I wish I had a better understanding of just how much time it would take to set up my business, especially creating my website from scratch.

While a number of my earrings currently for sale were created from box store parts/pieces, I am working towards a sustainable line by using one hundred percent upcycled materials. I don’t know if that’s possible, but I am doing everything in my power to get there. I want to show people that new, beautiful life can be given to used items when shown a little love and creativity.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Thursday evening: Rice Village — Tapas at El Meson, walking tour of Rice campus, drinks at Valhalla

Friday evening: Westheimer — Patio dinner at Brasil, bar hopping (ie Poison Girl, Present Company, Anvil Bar)

Saturday: Farmer’s market hop (ie Montrose, West U, The Heights), ride bikes along Buffalo Bayou trail, BBQ at the Pit Room, evening movie at Rooftop Cinema Club Uptown

Sunday: See an exhibit at MFA, go shopping in Montrose (ie Quarter Price Books, Whole Earth Provisions, Buffalo Exchange), evening coffee at Agora

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
A big thank you to Ruth Diaz, who nominated me for this story!

Website: shopbright.online

Instagram: @shopbright.online

Facebook: @feellightfeelbright

Image Credits
Alexandra Krus

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.