a little about me...

Laura Verses and Five and Nine Designs

What started as an after school job at 16 turned into a love for the jewelry industry and a passion for helping people.

Growing up, I loved to play dress up. Of course, the more accessories, the better.  It came as no surprise when I declared Apparel Marketing as my major in college.

After graduating, I felt at first like I was taking a step backwards when I ended up at my high school job working retail for a family-owned jewelry store, but after attending my first jewelry show in Las Vegas, quickly realized that I was part of an industry that was so much bigger.

It was amazing! Walking aisle after aisle, for miles. My feet killed but I didn't care. There were sparkles everywhere and I wanted to wake up the next day and do it all over again. As I looked, I spotted the new trends and got to hand select which styles to bring back to the store, always with specific customers in mind.  My skills were transferrable. This was perfect for me. I was meant to do this!  

5 & 9 have been my lucky numbers since I was a kid, but they have a slightly different meaning to me now.  The numbers signify inspiration, taking a risk, and doing ‘something for me’. I have an amazing husband and 2 amazing daughters (who happened to be 5 & 9 at the time) that needed me more than ever, so it felt like the right time for a new chapter. A chapter that would afford me the flexibility to be a more present mom to my girls and the flexibility for my customers to work with me beyond the traditional, and at times limiting ‘9 to 5.’  In the summer of 2021, I left to pursue my long-time curiosity of starting my own business.

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So, after more than two decades from that first inspiring jewelry show, Five and Nine Designs began - a private jewelry concierge where I work with my clients by appointment, bringing my years of expertise and vast network of designers and manufacturers with me. I offer a personalized shopping experience, where I will consult with you to understand your individual needs and either present a curated collection of options or create and deliver a one-of-a-kind custom design, tailored to your individual style.