Interview: Lindsay Halladay from Wonders of Wanderlust

We recently gave away six gorgeous travel necklaces as part of our Mother’s Day ‘Travelher in Training’ competition. The necklaces were supplied by Lindsay Halladay, a talented jewellery-maker from America. We recently caught up with Lindsay to find out more about the woman behind her fabulous online store, ‘Wonders of Wanderlust’.

*Before we get into the interview, a quick note: Lindsay is generously offering Travelher readers 15 per cent off her beautiful creations. Simply enter the code ‘Travelher’ at checkout to claim your discount!*

Hi Lindsay, thanks for taking the time to chat to us about your gorgeous travel jewellery. Could you start by telling us a little bit about yourself, and how you got to be to where you are today?

First, I want to say that I’m happy to have been a part of your Mother’s Day contest; I very much enjoy sharing my creations with fellow travelers.

I’m actually a research scientist by trade, but I’ve always had a passion for expressing myself creatively. Several years ago I traveled to Europe for work, which really kick started my addiction to traveling. I find that I’m happiest when I’m planning my next adventure - which I think is a fairly common feeling for many people! I have a connection with others who are fond of wandering to new and exciting places, and somehow it just made sense to direct my creative energy toward expressing this passion for travel.

What inspired you to start a travel jewellery shop on Etsy?

My inspiration really was a result of me searching for unique travel-themed jewelry for a friend. It all started with the silver wanderlust airplane necklace in my store - I had an image in my head of what kind of necklace I wanted, and after not finding anything like what I was envisioning, I decided to make one myself. After some trial and error I created the necklace as it is listed in my shop today. My friend’s reaction to the necklace was pure joy, and I knew immediately that I wanted to share my creations with other travelers as well.

Your jewellery is stunning. Can you talk us through your creative process? 

Thank you! As far as my creative process goes, I usually wind up collecting different charms and beads and whatnot wherever I can. I have quite a collection of travel-related items now, so a lot of what I do is piecing together various items in a way that just makes sense. One of my favorite things to do is figure out what kind of unique items I can hand-stamp text onto, whether it be a charm, an airplane, or even bottle openers.

Where do you see the business going in the future (#dreams #goals)?

I’d like to see Wonders of Wanderlust grow insofar as continually offering additional new and unique jewelry pieces. In addition to my online store, I plan on expanding to local craft fairs and perhaps independent retail stores.

What are your favourite pieces from your collection?

I’d have to say that I definitely favor the wanderlust airplane necklace since that was the piece that started it all.   

How often do you get the chance to travel? Where was the last place you visited, and where is next on your wanderlust wishlist?

I travel often for work, but definitely make time for ‘pleasure’ trips as well. The last adventure I took on was Peru - as a kid I always wanted to visit Machu Picchu, and it was even more majestic than I’d imagined. In the near future I’d like to head back to Europe for a bit because I was somewhat of a novice traveler last time I was there, and I want to do it right!

Travelher is a website for women who love to travel. Have you ever travelled by yourself, and if so, how has this experience been for you?

I travel quite often by myself actually. It can be a bit lonely, but it forces you to interact with locals and meet new people, which is invaluable as far as experiences go.

Do you have any advice for other wanderlusters, about how they can see more of the world?

My only advice is don’t wait - just plan it and go!

What does being a ‘travelher’ (female traveler) mean to you?

It’s all about independence really. I’m proud to say that I don’t let much hold me back from taking off and wandering as much as I can.

Any final words about your love for travel?

Seeing the world really changes your perspective on life in ways you don’t realize are possible. I can’t think of a better goal in life than a journey that never ends.

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*Don't forget that Lindsay is offering Travelher readers a discount for her  online store - simply enter the code 'Travelher' at the checkout! ​*