Odette New York is a collection of sculptural jewelry by designer and founder Jennifer Sarkilahti. Each design is carefully carved by hand in wax before being cast into sustainable metals. Dedicated to experimentation within the craft, Sarkilahti creates new limited editions each season in addition to a permanent collection of signature styles.

Raised in Virginia, Sarkilahti studied painting, receiving her Master of Fine Arts from George Mason University before moving to New York City to pursue the arts. As an extension of her art practice, she began working in lost wax, blurring line between art and craft in creating the body of work that would eventually become Odette.

In 2019, after 15 years of living and working in Brooklyn, Sarkilahti moved to Bedford in the lower Hudson Valley, where she currently designs out of her studio in a converted barn from the 1800s.

 

Mona Lipson from Miss Mona Makes Ice Cream

Mona Lipson is the founder of Miss Mona Makes Ice Cream, a small-batch, big-hearted ice cream venture rooted in community and purpose. Launched in Brooklyn in 2021 as a monthly subscription service during the pandemic called a “CST: Community Supported Treats.” (like a CSA but for something sweet!), the business has since evolved into a beloved local brand focused on online sales, pop-ups, and community events throughout Northern Westchester, NY.

Known for inventive, community-inspired flavors like With Love from Yellow Studio and Responsi-Bubble Pop, Miss Mona Makes Ice Cream blends culinary creativity with social impact. Each pint tells a story, featuring locally sourced ingredients for swirls and chunks, inspiration from other small businesses, and often benefiting causes close to Mona’s heart.

Named Best Treats of 2025 by Connect to Northern Westchester Magazine and featured in The New York Times by Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Jodi Kantor, the brand celebrates nostalgia with a conscience. Mona’s mission is to use ice cream as a vehicle to unite neighbors, strengthen communities, and amplify voices through the power of ice cream.

Drawing on 20+ years of experience in nonprofit leadership, equity, sustainability, and mission-driven marketing, Mona proves that dessert can be both delicious and deeply meaningful.

 

Vanessa L. Seide from Very Lovely Soles

Effortless style meets all-day comfort. Thoughtfully designed flats and sandals for women on the move.

Vanessa spent over 13 years at Nine West Group, learning the ins and outs of the footwear industry—from sales and merchandising to design and sourcing. That’s also where I built the manufacturing relationships in Italy that I still use today.

After being laid off during the recession, Vanessa took it as a sign to go out on her own. Vanessa has always been a flat and casual kind of girl— always searching for that perfect pair. A trip abroad sparked the idea, and when she returned, she launched Very Lovely Soles from her apartment in Westchester, NY.

Megan Oliver from League of Friends

Megan Oliver is the founder of League of Friends, a joyful and mission-driven kids’ clothing brand dedicated to sustainability, quality, and clothes that truly keep up with childhood.

With over 15 years of experience in the fashion industry, Megan began her journey studying apparel design before going on to work with known brands such as Cynthia Rowley, Tommy Hilfiger, and DKNY. Through these roles, she cultivated a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, practicality, and design that lasts.

League of Friends was born during Megan’s maternity leave with her first daughter, sparked by a simple frustration: she couldn’t find kids’ clothing that checked all the boxes—well-made, ethically produced, playful, and affordable. That gap led to a bigger idea and a growing brand.

Originally launched in Brooklyn and now based in Goldens Bridge, New York—where she’s lived with her husband and two daughters for nearly three years—Megan leads League of Friends with a clear vision: to make everyday favorites that are worn on repeat, hold up to real-life messes and adventures, and are designed to be handed down again and again.