Established in the spring of 2005, Sumi's has become a destination for unique jewelry, gifts and more. Owner, Sumi Siegel, has been in retail in some capacity since the 80s. In 1999 she helped her mother Carita start a handbag company called Carita Viola Designs. All the bags are designed and made by Carita in her Helsinki, Finland studio. At Sumi's, you'll find an exclusive selection of her mother's work, from purses to table runners.
"Before opening the store, I was selling my mom's bags to other stores as well as at art festivals all over California. One day in March of 2005 my husband Max and I were taking a walk in our neighborhood, when we came across a vacant store front for rent. I was already selling my mom's work, so it just made sense to open a store." Sumi and Max built and designed the store themselves. The architectural salvage used to create much of the space makes for a visually stimulating atmosphere. The six large jewelry cases in the store make for an impressive selection. "Though my mom's bags started it all, we're best known for our jewelry. The range of price and style is really broad. I wanted to have a store that everyone could shop at. So, you'll find the classic conservative piece as well as the edgy bold piece. The main criteria I use for selecting jewelry for the store is that it be handmade and that the source be the artist themselves. Being special is important too. This philosophy goes for the rest of my merchandise as well."
In March of 2011, Sumi finally did what her customers suggested she do... start her own jewelry line. Emma Lou by Sumi's is made by Sumi herself. It's affordable, pretty, and the focus of jewelry for sale online. Everything is made to order and if you want something customized, Sumi can do that too.
See the store in person at 3204 W. Sunset Blvd, Silverlake, CA 90026