This past week, I had the opportunity to interview one of University of Michigan’s very own entrepreneurs, Allison Haney (pictured on the right). Allison is currently a junior studying business, but she also just so happens to be the current brand ambassador of Heart Graffiti, a fashion jewelry company started by recent Michigan MBA graduate, Sara Jones. It is always inspiring to hear the story of how a vision becomes reality, and that appears to be the theme behind Heart Graffiti. It’s one thing to dream big, but it’s another to see an idea through to the end to the finished product. I was excited for a chance to ask her a few questions in hopes of getting a better feel for what types of products Heart Graffiti produces while learning more about Allison’s involvement with the company.
What exactly is Heart Graffiti?
Allison:Heart Graffiti is a new jewelry company started by Sara Jones, a recent Michigan MBA graduate. Heart Graffiti started with fashion jewelry, but now has the Ecole line, a line of fashionable class jewelry for college women. The first school in the line was the University of Michigan, but the collection now includes Michigan State, with plans to expand to other universities.
What inspired your involvement with Heart Graffiti?
Allison:When I saw the line I knew I wanted to be involved with the company. I am so proud to be a Michigan Wolverine, but I had no intention of buying a class ring. I thought that the Ecole collection was the perfect way for college women to rep their class “bling” in a fashionable way. I am currently a brand ambassador, so I work to get the word out about the line on campus. I also interned with the company last summer.
How many people are involved with Heart Graffiti?
Allison: There are two brand ambassadors at each school right now, plus Sara, the president. But, this is subject to change in the future.
How did you get the idea for the name?
Allison:Sara came up with the name of the company while she was on a run and saw graffiti in the shape of the heart. The name of the class jewelry line, Ecole, is French for “school.”
Where can products from Heart Graffiti be found?
Allison:The class line has its own site http://www.ecolecollection.com/and all the jewelry can be found at www.heartgraffiti.com. The Ecole line is also sold at the M Den.
What is the typical price range for your products?
Allison:The regular collections range from $45-$325. The class jewelry ranges from $150-$435. Each piece is made from the finest sterling silver 925 and 950. Members of the manufacturing and design team have worked with notable industry leaders such as Tiffany & Co.
Lastly, what are any fun facts or interesting details that I may not have asked about?
The class ring was invented in 1835 (a time when few women attended college) for the West Point Military Academy. Today, women make up 57% of all college students.