Laguna Beach Jewelry Brand Stephanos Takes Inspiration from Around the World
Inspiration comes in many forms. It can be born from joy, beauty, travel, nature, and, in many cases, from the most intense challenges that make us see the world in a completely new way.
Miki Latimer, founder of jewelry line Stephanos, knows this all too well. Stephanos was the result of inspiration gained out of all of the above, namely her expansive international travel, as well as the challenges faced by her son, Kyan, who was born with Cerebral Palsy.
A search for alternative therapies took Miki, her husband, and their two sons all over the globe. “It was a fascinating time,” she remembers, “traveling the world, visiting countries, meeting wonderful people, experiencing cultures, and trying many different types of therapies that were not considered mainstream. The journey ultimately empowered and emboldened me to do something more.”
Miki, who comes from a creative family (her mother is an award-winning quilt designer and her sister a renowned architect) was inspired by the fashion, interior design, and jewelry she saw throughout her travels.
“After four years of charging around, we got Kyan to a position where he could attend preschool,” explains the entrepreneur. “For the first time, l had some time for myself and I had this passion, drive, and raw emotion that l channeled into my designs.”
“I created Stephanos’ original designs with a purpose and story, drawn from our journey and adventures we shared together in those first few years of his life.”
Stephanos, named after the handmade woven “garland” used for special occasions in ancient Greece, skyrocketed into popularity after launching, earning acclaim throughout Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, Europe, and Australia. When the family settled in Laguna Beach in 2016, Miki was eager to introduce Stephanos to the USA and incorporate a coastal vibe into her designs.
Today, Stephanos is designed entirely in Laguna, showcasing a life of wanderlust, exploration, different cultures, humanity, and discovery — with a sprinkling of endless summer days.
You’ll see it all in every necklace, bracelet, and earring.
Miki hand-picks ethically-sourced, quality materials such as freshwater pearls (a staple in a beach town like Laguna), 14-karat gold, and semi-precious stones from every corner of the globe, using threading and weaving techniques for an unmatched craftsmanship finish.
With the holiday season approaching and a time when shopping small is of the utmost importance, Stephanos makes a great gift.
Our Stephanos holiday picks are:
“Aphrodite” Baroque Pearl & Faux Leather Ribbon Necklace is their most popular piece for an effortless, boho-chic look that can be styled countless ways with a myriad of outfits.
“Leuce” Baby Pearl and Semi Precious Stone Necklace/Bracelet adds a beachy touch for a fun and flirty style, with a splash of elegance, worn as a necklace or as a wrap bracelet.
“Hebe” Baby Pearl Bracelet is the new friendship bracelet… perfect for your bestie.
And when it comes to mom, Miki recommends going for the “Calypso” Teardrop Baroque Pearl Earrings. Classic and timeless, just like mama.
Because Miki knows the holidays can get busy, with every order Stephanos offers complimentary environmentally-friendly wrapping — taking one less hassle out of the season.
In addition to being sold at such 5-star resorts like The Four Seasons and St. Regis hotels in Asia, you can find Stephanos locally at Anneliese Schools Store, Laguna Bridal Boutique, or in Wildfire Mercantile off the Ortega Highway.
Stephanos also has a few pop-ups planned, ideal for holiday shopping:
November 19th at Anneliese Schools Store in Laguna Beach.
November 20th-21st at Renegade Craft Los Angeles.
December 2nd at La Casa Del Camino’s Art Walk Night.
December 11th-December 12th At ROW DTLA.
To make every purchase that much sweeter, Stephanos donates a percentage of sales to a local special needs therapeutic riding and surfing organization, Surf & Turf Therapy. Near and dear to her heart, her son Kyan has found healing and joy in his visits.
“Giving back is something we feel strongly about,” shares Miki. “Wherever we are in the world, we see needs in our local communities and want to help where and when we can.”
Style and substance — it’s what fashion should be all about.
Charlotte Farrell is an Orange County-native, editor, writer, and editorial content strategist who finds a thrill in telling stories about the marvelous things humans have accomplished, in addition to topics such as wellness, food, climate change, sustainability, clean beauty, fitness, mental health, and travel. She has a particular interest in globe-trotting, finding the best matcha latte in each destination she visits, and petting every dog she meets along the way.
Photos by: Tiffany Perry Photography.