Sally Han is on a mission. The jewellry designer for Psalms 91:1 has found a way to balance her spiritual beliefs with her business. Derived from a Bible verse, her brand's name is a reminder of Sally's dedication to her faith and of her purpose: to use her gifts to help others. I talked to the designer about her line, and the upcoming event on Saturday, February 6 at Swish by Han which previews the Spring/Summer collection, "Be Fruitful", with an evening of Korean-style tapas, live music, and swag, with a portion of proceeds from sales benefitting Haiti.

Laura: Why did you name the line Psalms 9:11?

Sally: When I first started jewellry making, I wanted to wholly dedicate it to God who blessed me with the gift and inspiration, and I also wanted the name to constantly remind me of my purpose: to use the gift for others rather than myself.

Psalms 91:1 is the verse I chose because the whole chapter talks about how we as His children can trust Him and He will rescue us when we are in trouble. Also I saw it as God rescue 911!

L: Many in the industry hide their faith in God. Why did you decide to state your beliefs in the most public way: your brand name?

S: I am aware of how easy it is to become swayed and get lost in the materialism of the world. I knew that if I boldly stated my belief and faith in public, it will challenge me to stay rooted to my faith. I launched Psalms hoping it would be a ministry more than a business, so it made sense to have an unconcealed name.

L: Have you encountered any controversy over the name?

S: I have had investors and business people approaching me suggesting I should change the name if I want to grow as a business. I never considered it, and God has opened up so many doors for me, and Psalms is growing more and more.

L: What inspires you?

S: Every collection is inspired by my life experiences. When I went to Namibia, Africa, for three months on missions, I came back and launched the "Himba" collection. Timing was perfect because safari and Africa was the "in" style that season! I also went on a mission trip to the native reserves and launched the "Bow and Arrow" collection. I like to use my jewellry to tell a story so the audience too can become inspired. This season, our SS10 line is called "Be Fruitful" inspired by John 15:5. It may not come from a mission trip this time but it still relates to my life and what I am learning.

L: Who is your clientele?

S: Mothers, teenagers, young professional women, even Grandmothers, have all found something to love about Psalms. Psalms appeals to a variety of women. Soon we are launching a men's collection which is already being showcased at The Red Carpet Room and has been featured on the LG Fashion Week runway for House of Lizares.

L: And, finally, practical matters...what are your price points and where do we find your jewellry?

S: Our price points are affordable compared to the high quality and design we offer. We have prices ranging from $12 to $600 depending on the collection! Customers can make an appointment with me to come in and view our showroom, or purchase online and there is a list of stores in Toronto, Vancouver and New York on our website.

Meet Sally Han and preview her SS10 collection while donating to the Haiti relief effort. Saturday, February 6th from 6-10 pm at Swish by Han, 38 Welllington Street, Toronto. RSVP (rsvp@psalmsaccessories.com) and get a free swag bag!