Story
La Vie Est Belle Is A SoWal Original
May 19, 2016 by Sarah Robertson
Leather and pearls go together like sand and sea. Just ask the legion of Wendy Mignot fans at La Vie Est Belle in Seaside. The small, funky, and lively shop has become the bohemian hot spot for beachy jewelry lovers from far and wide.
Make no mistake, leather and pearl jewelry has been around for thousand of years. But it's doubtful anyone has done it better than Wendy, or become more famous for it. She's become more than a jewelry maker. Her and her family have created a SoWal tribal movement, part savvy marketing and part true spirit.
Wendy's creations have become something of a trademark for the South Walton beach life. There are those who have copied her, even tried to imitate. But she has loyal customers who have adorned themselves for years with her art, and are proud to say, "it's a Wendy".
“La Vie Est Belle translates to 'Life is Beautiful' and that's always been my philosophy," Wendy says.
Wendy's jewelry beautifully represents the laid-back lifestyle of SoWal by combining leather with South Sea pearls. Since the opening of the store in 2008, it has evolved, but the beauty and quality has been a constant.
La Vie Est Belle in Seaside celebrates 13 years in Seaside this May!. As Wendy reflects on her journey, she is grateful and humble. Wendy lives and breathes to make jewelry and her artistry is supported by a loyal and devoted crew, who she calls her A Team.
“Everyone plays their part and has their unique strengths. They allow me the chance to be myself through my creativity; my art,” she explained.
One mantra Wendy seems to embody is that gifts also come from the act of giving. For someone as generous as her, spiritual dividends are rich in return. She thrills in this role of making others happy. Many times her pieces are the center of family traditions.
“I love to see customers return year after year to build on their collections and ultimately make memories,” she says. To be the creative force behind lasting, treasured keepsakes is a gift in and of itself.
We recently visited La Vie Est Belle to see the current Wendy Mignot collections. You need to come in for a visit to browse these original pearl and leather collections with many stunning pieces on display! The latest La Vie est Belle collection is full of one-of-a-kind designs including the Vagabond Necklaces. They are fashionable, fun, wearable art and feature different varieties of pearls, as well as sea glass and natural gems.
Wendy and husband Jean-Noel's philanthropic efforts are well known in the South Walton community, benefiting dozens of local and national groups ranging from Alaqua Animal Refuge, Boys & Girls Club of the Emerald Coast, to Lighthouse Family Retreat, Food For Thought Outreach and many more excellent organizations near and far. One of the recent campaigns was Life is Beautiful and So Are you, a collaborative campaign to raise funds and awareness on anti-bullying and suicide prevention.
So far in 2016 she's raised significant funds for those affected by violent crimes. Along with her sister Tamara, they recently presented a $4,000 check to The National Center for Victims of Crime. 100% of the proceeds from the sale of her “Shooting Star” designs benefit this very important cause. She hopes to build upon that first donation and add to it in the coming months.
Wendy's skillful hands and giving heart are precious on our emerald coast. Wendy Mignot Fine Pearls and Leather has gained an international market and ships all over the world. Visit the e-boutique at www.WendyMignot.com for a showcase all of the fine leather and pearl collections including new designs.
Wendy is a talented woman and chooses distinctive and skilled artists to join her at La Vie Est Belle. Look for Jean-Noel's line of leather cuffs made from alligator and snakeskins and embellished with pearls and stones. Jimmi wZ bags have become a must-have item for locals and visitors. Jimmi wZ Hand Wrought Bags are custom designed, one-of-a-kind creations utilizing the finest leathers available from around the world.
Jimmy Wz bags are at La Vie Est Belle in Seaside
La Vie Est Belle is located on Central Square in Seaside, Florida. Stop in to browse fine pearls and leather collections as well as one-of-a-kind creations by other artists. She has created a store that is both beautiful and comfortable with a friendly staff. Open every day from 10am til 9pm. If you don’t have a “Wendy” yet, it's time to join the tribe.
La Vie Est Belle "A Team"
Wendy sits down with SoWal writer Sarah at La Vie Est Belle in Seaside May 2016
Join the conversation!
Follow La Vie Est Belle and Wendy Mignot Designs on social media where you'll fall in love with beautiful photos, collections, places and people. You'll become an instant fan on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest as you follow the tribe. Watch for specials and giveaways on Facebook and Instagram channels.
Shout out to an excellent social media team for La Vie Est Belle and Wendy Mignot Designs!
Wendy Mignot Designs on Facebook
@wendypearls on Instagram
@wendypearls_fanpage
Tagged
After years of May and October visits to South Walton, Sarah Murphy Robertson and her husband and young son made the leap to become locals in March 2011. Along with long lazy days spent beachside, Sarah also loves watching documentaries, voracious reading, spinning a witty pun, and homemade bread just out of the oven.
