We’re so excited for the first installation of Perfectly Strong Women, our new series featuring women who work with the hands, meant to inspire women to fulfill their dreams. We recently met with Lauren Behning at Dune Jewelry‘s Boston, MA studio.
What is your definition of a Perfectly Strong Woman?
A perfectly strong woman doesn’t stop when she has to take two steps backward in order to move forward. She knows what she wants in life and will go after it. A strong woman will never give up on what she believes to be right and will always stand up for herself.
Who is one woman who has been influential in pursuing your craft?
Holly Daniels Christensen, Founder & CEO of Dune Jewelry has been such a positive role model and influence to me in my personal and professional life. I admire her dedication, hard work and passion for Dune Jewelry. She has helped shape me to be the woman I am today and inspires me every day. Holly took a chance on me 4 years ago when she hired me. She has taught me so much about business and how to be a Sand Artist. Dune Jewelry captures some of life’s greatest moments with the jewelry we custom hand make every day, and thanks to Holly I get to be a part of those important memories for thousands of customers.
Tell us more about Dune Jewelry.
I love Dune Jewelry because it’s a unique and tangible way to capture important memories. You can send in your own sand from a special vacation or destination, or choose from our Sandbank™, which offers thousands of sands and locations worldwide. Your summers spent on the East End of Long Island, your honeymoon in Santorini… You literally can wear your special memory in the form of a custom, handcrafted piece of jewelry that can last forever. I think what we do every day is really very special.
What is one piece of advice that you would give a young woman aspiring to fulfill her dream?
There is no such thing as a recognizable magic moment of success. The road is bumpy and your nails get chipped! Hold on because if you have the drive and determination, you’ll look back at where you were a year/a month/a week ago and realize how much you’ve learned and how far you’ve come from when you started your dream. I always say no dream is ever too big to go after. You are in charge of your own destiny so I always say go for it!
As a busy woman, what is one time-saving technique or life hack that you would share?
Know yourself and think two steps ahead. I’d forget my head if it wasn’t attached, so I put things like a dedicated razor and toothbrush in my makeup case, because those are two things I always forget to pack when traveling. Stop asking yourself “Why do I always do that?” and make sure your future self isn’t left wanting!
What is one of your guilty pleasures?
I am a fast food connoisseur. Yo quiero Taco Bell!
Want to own some of this gorgeous jewelry? Enter for a chance to win a $125 Gift Card to Dune Jewelry!
Photos: Christa Smith Photography
Love the idea of this jewelry! Having grown up near water and still live close to water and beaches, I think this idea is perfect for capturing amazing memories!
Good Afternoon! How beautiful you’ve teamed up with Lauren for this! I’ve always loved handmade jewelry. I think it makes your main look that much more magnificent. Why? Because you put your own likes/twists into your mani, and that’s hobo feel what the Artist does with their rare and unique pieces for bus to wear! Kudos on this and many more to come!