We had the good fortune of connecting with Leticia Matheus and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Leticia, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
I truly loved this question, because I believe that as an entrepreneur, this decision is not something that belongs to the past — it is something we must make every single day. We cannot go back and change yesterday, and we do not know what tomorrow will bring. But we do have full awareness that today is ours to live, to affirm, and to choose.

For me, the most important decision has been the daily affirmation: I choose not to give up. Just as crystals reveal their beauty through time, patience, and pressure, our journey as entrepreneurs also requires persistence, intention, and faith. Each day I remind myself that success is not a single moment — it is the continuous choice to keep moving forward, to keep creating, and to keep shining with the energy we carry within us.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What I want the world to know about me and about Lelê Reis is that this brand is more than jewelry — it is a bridge between beauty and meaning, between the material and the spiritual. Every creation is infused with love, energy, and the belief that when we adorn ourselves with intention, we are not just decorating the body, we are empowering the soul.

What sets me apart is my commitment to keeping crystals as close to their natural state as possible, honoring their raw elegance and unique vibrations. Each design is a dialogue between nature’s artistry and human craftsmanship, resulting in jewelry that carries both style and spirit.

My journey here was anything but easy. I left behind a corporate career and entered the uncertain ocean of entrepreneurship, carrying only faith, courage, and the dream of building something meaningful. As an immigrant, a mother, and a woman entrepreneur, I encountered countless challenges — from cultural and language barriers to the daily balance between family and business. Yet every challenge was also a lesson: resilience, intuition, patience, and the power of community.

Today, I am most proud not only of the jewelry I create, but of the stories they now carry — stories of women and men who wear my pieces as reminders of love, strength, protection, or hope. My art is not about perfection; it is about connection. And that, to me, is the greatest success.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I really enjoy the Design District in Miami, an open-air area with so many inspiring brands where you can explore the latest trends. I also love the art and illustrations in Wynwood, which always feel alive with creativity.

The ocean is very special to me — by the sound of the waves you find time to think, reflect, and dream about your next collections. I also enjoy the Aventura Mall, a place filled with energy and different events happening at its center.

For history and beauty, the Vizcaya Museum is always a magical stop. And in Coral Gables, I love visiting Books & Books, such a charming place to pause, read, and enjoy a little piece of calm.

Finally, Miami wouldn’t be complete without its seaside restaurants. From a sparkling glass of champagne to a refreshing spritz or even a simple coffee by the water, these moments by the bay are the ones that stay in your memory long after the trip is over.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely — my journey has never been a solo one. If I could dedicate a heartfelt shoutout, it would be first to my family. My daughter Chloe was the spark that gave me the courage to leave behind a corporate career and sail into the blue ocean of entrepreneurship. Without her birth, my story would have been written in very different lines.

To my youngest, Constantino, who fills my days with light and joy, reminding me that success is not only about achievements, but about the love and laughter we carry along the way.

And to my greatest foundation, my husband John — the one who holds our family steady while I run to events, conferences, and exhibitions. His support makes it possible for me to step into the world with confidence, knowing that at home, everything is anchored in love.

I am also grateful to the women who surround me — friends, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs whose wisdom lights the way. And to every client who chooses my crystal jewelry, thank you for believing that it carries not only beauty, but intention, energy, and dreams.

Website: https://www.lelereis.com

Instagram: @lelereisjewelry

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lelereis

Facebook: https://facebook.com/lelereisjewelry

Other: TikTok: @lelereisjewelry

Image Credits
Patrick Conway , and Chris H.

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