Chic Spotlight: Tobey 1 Originals

Cincy Chic: What is Tobey 1 Originals?
Tami Seurkamp, Founder of Tobey 1 Originals: Tobey 1 Originals is a line of one-of-a-kind, original, handmade necklaces, earrings and bracelets. I’ve added pieces from my personal vintage costume collection and refurbished pieces, and these I have redesigned to make them original.

Cincy Chic: What’s the inspiration behind your business?
Seurkamp: This sounds silly, but my dog, Tobey, who I lost in 2011, is the inspiration behind the business. He was with me through so many pivotal moments and brought happiness, joy, laughter and love into every life he touched. He was a one-of-a-kind original so when it came time to name my business, it was easy. My originals are inspired by an original.

Cincy Chic: When did you launch Tobey 1 Originals?
Seurkamp: As a business we launched in late 2010, but it’s been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember.

Cincy Chic: What makes Tobey 1 Originals unique?
Seurkamp: Each piece is a one-of-a-kind original. I pride myself on not duplicated anything unless there’s a special order. From my days at Giddings and the clothes line, I learned that no one wants to see themselves coming and going. About 2 years ago, I incorporated necklaces without clasps, long enough to wear as one strand or even as a double strand. I did this because of the request for something for the elderly, or someone with arthritis or any other impairment, so they could still be stylish yet not have to mess with clumsy clasps and awkward closures. My mother was the first to point this out and it is a growing part of my business. I decide prices and my items are extremely affordable, so several pieces can be purchased without breaking the bank. My line is jewelry for the fun of it. One thing that gives me great pleasure is hearing from someone who says the piece they purchased 3 years ago or 3 minutes ago is their favorite item in their jewelry box and the compliments they get every time they wear it. Wow! Now this is what motivates me.

Cincy Chic: Our Seasonably Chic Showcase is coming up! What will you be bringing to the event?
Seurkamp: I’ll have necklaces, bracelets and earrings that are bright, fun and festive. There will be lots of pearls as well in addition to Southwestern touches, feathers, from chunky to dainty and color, color, color. There will also be some handmade as well as refurbished vintage pins. All of the pieces are made to be multi-seasonal so what is purchased for that special holiday party can also be worn on the boat next spring.

Cincy Chic: Is there anything new on the horizon for your business?
Seurkamp: Yes, I will be branching out into original hair accessories, belts and small handmade fabric clutches. I have also been pursuing small boutiques to find just the right one to carry my pieces. I am searching for someone whose passion is equal to mine in keeping it original, fun and always caring about what it is the public wants. I have contacted several fashion publications to find out where my little business might fit in. I would love to partner with or at the very least be part of the Arthritis Foundation, and to take my wares to local senior housing so the ladies can have fun and fashion come to them.

Cincy Chic: Where can readers go to learn more about Tobey 1 Originals?
Seurkamp: We’re currently on Facebook. There’s a website under construction and I’ll keep everyone informed of the progress of that through Facebook.