Good taste runs in Lauren Woodward’s family. Her grandmother was a painter and one of the first founders for the Los Angeles Museum of Art, alongside Lauren’s grandfather who was a successful clothing manufacturer in Southern California. They were a stylish and dynamic duo, so it was only appropriate that the idea for Billy Sky begin on a beach in Malibu, CA. “It popped into my head sitting there that I wanted to resell vintage clothes and one day own a clothing boutique,” Lauren reminisces. Her journey began at the famous Rosebowl Flea Market in Pasadena where she had a booth selling a variety of clothes and niche accessories. Her handmade feather jewelry became so popular that focus quickly shifted from selling vintage clothing to creating distinct jewelry pieces. Always at one with her beloved beach and the outdoors, Lauren started using natural stones in her necklaces and earrings. “I think that in a world of adversity, nature is one release to get away from all that,” she says. Eventually, Lauren moved to Chico, coined the name Billy Sky, and started selling jewelry at local boutiques. Shops like Syllabus and Harlow & Heart provided the perfect backdrop for her trendy yet timeless pieces to shine; and inventory flew off the shelves. Locals loved the bohemian chic look and unique variety from piece to piece.
WRITTEN BY ALYSSA WORLEY PHOTOS BY ERIN HANSEN & COURTESY OF LAUREN WOODWARD
The Sky’s the Limit
Ideas for new projects can come to Lauren anytime, anywhere. Whether she’s walking out the door in the morning or dreaming designs, she has had many sporadic moments drawing out new looks whenever convenient. “Raising two young girls, I try to fill in any nook and cranny of the day with creating pieces, reordering supplies and shopping,” Lauren says. And she believes it’s really not about buying success, but building it. Lauren’s business has grown organically using all her own money and self taught branding tactics. With a retro look and ultra hip vibe, all it takes is one peek at @billysky on Instagram or scroll through her online Lookbook to see why Billy Sky fans are numerous and passionate. Always grateful for the never-ending support given by the community, Lauren says “I love that Billy Sky has truly grown in Chico. A lot of businesses start here, and expand, but stick to these roots. Chico people love Chico!” Billy Sky Jewelry is designed for the “modern bohemian” but really these pieces are for anybody who wants to make a statement. The delicate chains, sparkling rough stones, turquoise accents, and seasonal colors all make for unforgettable wearable art. Layer it on boldly, or wear one stand out piece: this jewelry was designed so that it would be eye catching either way. In the future, Lauren Woodward envisions big things for Billy Sky but doesn’t feel the pressure to rush. Maybe what lies ahead looks like trade shows, focusing more on online sales, or even transitioning to an entire lifestyle brand. The sky’s the limit!
FIND BILLY SKY JEWELRY ONLINE AT WWW.SHOPBILLYSKY.COM AND ON SOCIAL MEDIA @BILLYSKY 73