Erika Lynn McKelvey of Erika Lynn Studio and Boutique

CW: When did you decide to go into the business you are in?
“I own Erika Lynn Studio and Boutique in Belle Hall Shopping Center. I graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design with a bachelor’s of fine art in accessory design and started making handbags under my line, Erika Lynn, right after graduating in 2012. I knew I wanted to start my own business rather than give my ideas and designs to another designer. A few years after selling at art shows and selling wholesale to other galleries and boutiques, my dream of owning my own boutique became real.”

In addition, I recently opened Fly High Bungee Fitness in Mount Pleasant. A lifelong passion for gymnastics, choreography and fitness led me to the bungee workout after desiring a workout in my adult years that combines fun with a great workout but is easy on the joints.”

CW: What inspires you?
“Traveling has always inspired me. When I travel, my brain and body rest, allowing me to take in new cultures and experiences without the constant need to get every day’s work tasks finished. When I am doing day-to-day tasks, it’s hard to gain new inspiration for handbags, but when I travel, I always come up with new ideas that I’m ready to make as soon as I get back home.”

CW: Tell us about your family.
“My family is still very close, and that is special to me. My mom works with me daily, and my dad is always on call when I need something heavy lifted, help in the studio or something built. My brother and sister-in-law are great cheerleaders, and some days you can find my very special niece ‘working’ with me in my studio.”

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