Local designer to open English Village jewelry showroom

Theresa Bruno’s jewelry line is carried by more than 70 stylists across the world, and it will now be available in her hometown. Her Jordan Alexander Jewelry showroom opens in English Village on May 10.

“I tell everybody that no matter where I go in the world, I’m very proud to be a southerner and proud to have my southern roots,” Bruno said. “I wanted to be able to bring some of the manufacturing for this business to my hometown so that it would have a positive economic impact.”

Bruno began designing jewelry for herself just four years ago when she couldn’t find the “look” she said she was searching for. She wanted pieces that were funky and gorgeous, as lovely as the pearls her mother once wore yet hip enough to be worn every day. Friends would comment on her jewelry, and she quickly approached by a major NYC showroom to carry the line.

Her pieces have been worn by everyone from First Lady Michelle Obama to dozens of A-list celebrities like Julia Roberts and Katie Couric. In addition, the line has been photographed and covered by almost every major magazine, from Oprah and Vogue to Women’s Wear Daily and Southern Living.

The English Village showroom will carry many of the pieces that have positioned her as a major influence in the fashion industry, from sliced pearls and raw gems, all set in precious metals and diamonds, to her 52-inch triple-knotted pearl necklaces. Unlike traditional strands of pearls that sit stiffly in one place, the knotting gives each piece movement and personality. They come in every essential color palate, from rich cocoa to shining silver, and can take a running-out-the door T-shirt look from rushed to chic.

“It turns out that pearls actually go with everything you own” Bruno said. “They may not look like your grandmother’s pearls, but they stand for everything your grandmother stood for. I am humbled and excited to be able to share my designs with my friends and family in my own town.”

The store is located at 2003 Cahaba Road, Suite 101. Hours are Tuesday – Saturday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more call 868-1391 or visit jordanalexanderjewelry.com.