A Sparkling Debut- Westhaven Wires new jewelry drops Wednesday
Westhaven Wires, a new jewelry collaboration by creator Ethan Watkins, is hosting a special jewelry drop this Wednesday, October 2nd, from 5–7 p.m. at Westhaven Wines.
If those two names sound similar, it’s because Ethan’s mom, Casey Watkins, is the co-owner of Westhaven Wines. In fact, if you’ve visited Westhaven Wines in the past year, there’s a good chance Ethan was the one pouring your drinks as the bartender.
The Drift caught up with Ethan to learn more about his exciting new venture as a jewelry maker.
Westhaven Wires jewelry by Ethan Watkins
Hi Ethan! Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Ethan Watkins, and I’m the creator behind Westhaven Wires. I’m 22 years old and originally from Aberdeen, but I moved to Westport five years ago. I graduated from Ocosta High School in 2020, right when COVID hit, so I actually graduated in a parking lot! These days, I’m the regular bartender at Westhaven Wines and recently started managing their social media. Besides making jewelry, I love exploring the Pacific Northwest and spending time with friends.
Ethan Watkins, creator of Westhaven Wires
How did you get into making jewelry?
Well, if you know my mom, you know she’s really crafty. She was always making something when I was younger. As a kid, I loved drawing, but in my teenage years, I drifted away from that artistic side. This past year, I started reflecting on how much of my day was spent just working, sitting at home, or scrolling on my phone. I noticed my friends had all these cool hobbies—like video gaming, crocheting, or painting—and I realized I was too afraid to try something new. I always wanted to learn how to make jewelry, but I thought I’d be terrible at it. Eventually, I pushed past that fear, bought supplies, and taught myself. Now, instead of being bored at home or stuck on my phone, I’m creating something, and it’s been incredibly fulfilling.
Where do you turn for inspiration for your designs?
Living in Westport, I draw a lot of inspiration from the beach. I love anything ocean or marine wildlife-themed. When I’m not creating something beachy, I often turn to Pinterest for ideas. Some celebrities who inspire me are Lana Del Rey and Sabrina Carpenter. But most of the time, the inspiration just comes from within. I’ll sit at my desk, brainstorm, and try out different ideas until something clicks. Then I build on that until I’m happy with the final piece.
What are the price points for your pieces?
I try to keep the prices fair- the range is $25 to $50. The materials aren’t cheap, and my boyfriend Sage Busser—who makes beaded trees—and I like to visit crystal shops and gem shows to handpick quality beads and pendants. It makes them pricier than if we were ordering mass-produced materials online, but I feel better knowing they’re high-quality and chosen by us. There’s also the cost of tools, wire, charms, and other small things that go into each piece. One way I keep prices low is by selling everything myself.
Wire wrapped tree made by Sage Busser for Westhaven Wires
How long does it take to create a piece, and do you have favorite colors, beads, or crystals?
It really depends on the piece. Earrings can take anywhere from five minutes to half an hour, depending on how intricate they are. If I’m just attaching a charm, it’s quick. But if I’m beading a hoop or making something with a lot of loops or chain work, it can take much longer. Necklaces take even more time, especially the ones with little crystal chips and pendants. They’re tricky because I have to cut the chain, make individual links for each crystal, and reattach the chain. It sounds simple, but it’s time-consuming. My favorite crystals to work with are amethyst, green aventurine, and rose quartz. I don’t really have a favorite piece because, honestly, every time I make something new, it becomes my favorite—until I make something else!
What can people expect at the jewelry show on Wednesday? And where else have you sold your work?
The show this Wednesday at Westhaven Wines from 5–7 p.m. will feature a lot of autumn-inspired pieces, perfect for fall. I’ve also sold jewelry at Pirate Daze and the Westport Wine Festival. You can follow my Instagram for updates on new pieces and future shows.