Designer of Storrow answers a quick 15 in our latest installation of Small Talk.
Hi! Do you mind introducing yourself?
I'm Jennifer Koche and I'm the designer and founder of Storrow Jewelry!
Where are you currently?
I live in Brooklyn, right outside of Prospect Park.
How did you arrive at designing your line?
I spent over 15 years as a jewelry buyer for retailers such as Barneys, Nordstrom and most recently Saks Off Fifth. Towards the last years of doing so, I found myself wanting to fulfill something more personal and yearned for a creative outlet that was truly mine. While I loved curating and guiding other brands' collections, there was always a void and a desire to build something that felt unique and deeply reflective of my own aesthetic.
I’ve always been drawn to antique jewelry, not just for its aesthetic, but for its craftsmanship & detail. I knew from the start that I wanted my own line to echo that same spirit with pieces that feel one-of-a-kind, rich with detail, and made to last. Creating Storrow has been a way to transform years of industry experience into jewelry sparks joy (thank you Marie Kondo). First for me, and hopefully for others as well.
What are three words that best describe your designs?
Vintage-inspired, whimsical, heirloom worthy quality
What does a typical work day look like for you?
One thing that's the same is that it's never the same! I wear many hats during the day (and often into the nights & weekends) and bounce between every aspect of running a small business. From product development, designing, marketing, answering emails, working with customers & retailers to photoshoots and sourcing materials & supplies. I dabble in it all.
What about jewelry is so exciting to work with?
Everything? I love that it allows for endless creativity and is essentially wearable art with limitless design potential. I love how personal it can be. Designing with precious metals & gemstones also never gets old. I love finding new ways to use centuries old materials & techniques but with a new, modern take.
Who is your ultimate jewelry muse?
Iris Apfel always & forever. She was the queen of maximalism and so fearlessly individualistic. What I also appreciate was her ability to curate & layer. Her jewelry really reflected her taste and experience and came from a lifelong journey, not just from a runway.
Do you have a favorite stone?
Rhodochrosite has always been a favorite of mine. I love the hues that blend pink to a more dark raspberry color that make it feel super warm and feminine. I am also drawn to the striations of each, the banded/swired patterns that are unique per piece that make each feel one of a kind.
What is your favorite piece available at Broken English?
It's so hard to answer this question! But the fruits from my fruit collection are a seasonally appropriate answer :) They all have hand-carved gemstone with emerald baguette leaves. The cherry and strawberry are made of rhodochrosite, and we know I love this stone.
Is there anything new and exciting you have coming up?
I've been working on a new collection that I'm planning to launch this fall, and couldn't be more excited to see it come together. The two best parts are the tangible, finally being able to hold the finished product after months of designing back and forth, and then second, introducing it into the world and to customers.
Best place to find inspiration?
I find most of my inspiration in Victorian antique jewelry, but also combine with designs I find along the way in my travels, while mixing with modern day colors. I am constantly saving images of inspiration on my phone that I either defer to right away, or find my way back to years later.
Best soundtrack for designing?
This is usually the TV on low volume for me. And on a show that I can listen to but not intently watch. Most likely a reality show of some sort.
Best book you’ve read lately?
I just read Expecting Better by Emily Oster. I am expecting in November and trying to prepare however I can.
Best movie or show you’ve watched recently?
Not so recent but I loved Nobody Wants This. Such a feelgood show. I am eagerly awaiting the new season!
Best way to wind down after a busy season?
Taking my dogs for a walk in the park is a go-to for me and just going for walks in general. It's my favorite pastime and stress reliever.
