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If there’s one thing we’ve learned from exploring different individuals’ career paths, is that nothing is ever linear.
Case and point, Abu Dhabi-based Lana Nassar (LN). What she describes as a somewhat “disjointed” career, there’s been one common thread throughout the different roles she’s held – creativity and art.
This led her to found her very own fine jewellery brand, Atelier Lïya. Having always been drawn to the world of jewellery and fashion, it was only natural that she would enter the space, especially coming from a family of well-renowned third-generation jewellers.
But what exactly was the inspiration for Atelier Liya, which was founded in Beirut, with all its pieces made in Lebanon. “One of daydreaming and words, combining yesteryears and today,” Lana describes in this latest edition of the GRAZIA Career Edit. “It is modern vintage jewellery with meaning.”
More than just a brand, Atelier Lïya tells the story of family, designing pieces which are meant to be part of your life, which add to your own story.
In this edition of the GRAZIA Career Edit, we explore Lana’s “eclectic” career, what it takes to build a meaningful brand and the power of storytelling in jewellery.
My current role is…
LN: Creative and artistic director of Atelier Lïya, as well as founder of the brand.
When I was younger, I wanted to be…
LN: A pop star, a singer. To this day, I still love music, but I am very aware of my lack of talent in this field, and so I have resigned myself to concerts in the shower only.
My favourite subject at school was…
LN: Literature, languages, and sports. I was fascinated by poetry and used to read and write a lot of prose. I find the power and meaning of words so mesmerising, and to be able to say exactly what you mean is a gift. Words can take people on a journey, make them dream, and live in magical worlds.
My first job was…
LN: I worked with the Chalhoub Group as a perfume marketing assistant. I loved the branding and creative side of the job, but wasn’t so keen on everything operational and sales-driven.
My career path so far has been…
LN: Quite eclectic, from marketing to a stint in consulting, then owning an advertising agency, to finally arrive at where I believe I always should have been: designing jewellery. My background may seem disjointed, but there is a common thread that links it all, which is creativity and art.
The role the UAE has played in my career is…
LN: It has been my home since birth and my biggest platform. I would not be who I am today without the love and dynamism the UAE has shown me. My grandfather moved here in the 1970s, and my family has called it home ever since.
The story of Atelier Lïya is…
LN: One of daydreaming and words, combining yesteryears and today. It is modern vintage jewellery with meaning.
I was inspired to enter into the fashion & jewellery space because…
LN: I have always been drawn to it. Even as a little girl, I would travel around with a pouch of accessories, albeit they were plastic bobbles at the time, but to me they were everything. I would wear my doll’s necklace and crown, and would feel unstoppable.
My daily routine consists of…
LN: My days are split between work, my kids and myself. Mornings are mine, and afternoons are more kid-centric. Being a working mom is a constant juggling act, where each ball is as important as the other. It can be a little overwhelming sometimes, but there is beauty in the chaos, too. It might even be fuel to the fire that drives me.
My role as Founder & Creative Director entails…
LN: Everything! From conception to execution and sales, I try to be as involved as I can be. My passion is definitely focused on the creation and design side, but I am slowly learning to appreciate all aspects of the business.
The biggest hurdle I have experienced in my career…
LN: Being taken seriously. As a newcomer to the industry, it is hard to carve out space for yourself with so many talented designers out there. The trick is to never give up, not forget what your message is, and just keep going no matter what.
The biggest milestone I have achieved is…
LN: Being stocked in one of the most reputable stores: Harvey Nichols Dubai. When well-established buyers appreciate your work and decide to carry the brand, it is a very rewarding achievement. Another milestone has been my consistent appearance at Paris Fashion Week year after year.
A quote I live by is…
LN: “Live and let live.” I think it says it all.
What I hope for 2025 is…
LN: A kinder world. I want my kids to grow up believing in the beauty of humanity.
