Ladyboss Of The Month: Lexie Rundquist

Written by: Ladyboss Lifestyle

Photo provided by Lexie Rundquist

In collaboration with Ladybosses of Fargo-Moorhead, we feature different ladybosses across the community. Follow Ladybosses of Fargo-Moorhead on social media to stay up to date with them.

Lexie Rundquist

Artist and Owner of AEROW

Ladyboss Lexie Rundquist

Q: In a brief summary, what do you do?

A: I am a studio artist and a teacher. I specialize in electroform jewelry, utilizing gemstones and metal to create large, one-of-a-kind statement pieces. Electroforming is a process in which electricity is pulsed through a copper coil, transferring the copper onto the conductive surface of my jewelry, molecule by molecule, building a thick plate of metal that can look smooth and sleek or rough and organic. This process can take anywhere from six to twelve hours. I also teach workshops at Unglued and art classes for adults with Traumatic Brain Injuries at Heartsprings in Fargo.

Ladyboss Lexie Rundquist

Q: Where does the name AEROW come from?

A: There are really two answers to that question. First, I wanted a strong, simple symbol for my brand as I was getting started, something that spoke to how I view myself as an artist and my art. To me, an arrow symbolizes perpetual forward motion. After some word play, I realized spelling it AEROW would allow me a more personalized touch: AER are my initials and OW is Original Works. So, I get the two-for-one of a tie to my name and a powerful personal symbol.

Q: What’s your favorite part about what you do?

A: I love creating. I love making something from nothing–having an idea and bringing that idea into reality. It’s pretty satisfying. I also really love challenging myself. As my own boss, I really enjoy that I have the opportunity to challenge myself and to reflect on previous works to see my progress.

Q: How did it feel to see your pieces worn by Lily Tomlin on “Grace & Frankie?”

A: It was pretty surreal. I’m honestly still a little in shock. I felt so lucky, and I cried the first time I saw Lily Tomlin wearing my jewelry in the trailer.

Ladyboss Lexie Rundquist

Q: What has been the scariest/most challenging part of being an entrepreneur?

A: I kind of fell into this business. The hardest part for me has been finding a balance between the creative side of AEROW and the business side. I’m also working on learning that sometimes I have to say no to opportunities when they arise. As a creative, I get excited about projects and ideas when they come to me, but I have to work on setting boundaries for myself and my business and focus on what needs to get done. It’s actually something of a goal I’ve set for myself this year.

Q: What advice would you give to Ladyboss entrepreneurs just starting out?

A: Be brave and be bold when you’re making decisions for your business. A lot of good things have come my way from having the courage to just jump in. Also, as a creative person, there’s a lot more of the business side of things than you might expect when you’re just getting started as a creative business person. So, take a business class, or tap the nearly infinite resources online to make sure you know what you’re doing. There are also a lot of great creatives in Fargo-Moorhead and in the Ladyboss community who are great resources!

Ladyboss Lexie Rundquist

Q: What are you most looking forward to in 2019?

A: I’m really excited to continue to streamline my wholesale process and to meet future AEROW wearers at shows. I’m also eager to see how my design process continues to evolve, as it sometimes surprises me as much as anyone else. I just can’t wait to see what 2019 has in store!

What are your top must-read books for Ladybosses?

  • “Yes Please” by Amy Poehler
  • “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert
  • “Milk and Honey” by Rupi Kaur
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