Briony Raymond ’99 is the founder and CEO of Briony Raymond, a boutique jewelry atelier specializing in bespoke creations and fine estate pieces. In an exclusive interview, the art historian and gemologist shared favorite memories, the parts of her job she loves most, and how her time at the school helped shape her successful career.

Why did you decide to attend Hotchkiss?

I looked at several schools, including Exeter, Loomis, Choate, Deerfield, and Kent; but Hotchkiss spoke to me. The strong photography, theatre, and swimming programs matched my interests, and I felt at home. Hotchkiss quickly became my top choice, and I was thrilled when I got in.

What are some of your favorite memories from your time at the school?

My favorite memory has to be sitting with my best friends on Senior Grass during our Senior year on a perfect bluebird day. We reflected on our time at Hotchkiss—some parts were awesome and others anxiety-inducing. We felt such a sense of accomplishment, but it was mixed with sadness, as we were going to have to leave one another and head off to college soon.

I’ve been a creative person for as long as I can remember, and photography was always interesting to me. When I was little, I would take roll after roll of film, and my mom would take them to Costco to print the photos for me.

But taking a photography course at Hotchkiss was the first time I got to have real experience. I received formal training on how to use fstops on a camera and develop film, and it was just so amazing to me. Photography has remained a big part of my life, as I use it to build my brand on Instagram.

What did you do after you graduated?

After graduating, I interned with a fashion designer in New York, which was an exciting, fast-paced summer. I went to Rollins College in Florida, but after two years I transferred to the American University of Paris to study art history, with a focus on fine arts, photography, and sketching.

In Paris, I got my first job in the communications department of Société Générale [a bank and financial services company], where I wrote speeches for the CEO. I later worked in finance in London and New York.

However, I eventually realized that finance wasn’t my passion. I joined Van Cleef & Arpels to learn about jewelry. About ten years ago, I left to start my own company, Briony Raymond.

What do you enjoy most about running your own company?

There are many things about my job that I love, but being a founder, especially a female founder, makes me feel very proud.

The jewelry industry is quite male-dominated. It’s wild to be a woman in an industry surrounded by men. That was also the case when I worked in finance, but in this iteration of my career, I am the one creating the narrative, because it’s my business. My name is on the door.

I have had the unique opportunity to found a major American luxury brand that speaks to quality, craftsmanship, and ingenuity of design. I feel so excited to go to work every single day!

What does a typical day look like for you?

I start my mornings early in Darien, Connecticut by getting my kids ready for school before heading into New York City.

My day revolves around reviewing collections and orders and meeting with clients. I often do photoshoots and media interviews, and sometimes I’ll meet clients or editors for drinks in the evening.

Travel is also a big part of my job, whether it’s attending vintage shows or doing a suite for the Oscars in LA.

I work with a talented and dedicated team. We collaborate on design, client service, and the business side of things. I also work closely with editors, the media, and public relations professionals to ensure our brand reaches the right audience.

We have an international presence, so I often collaborate with partners and clients across the globe.

How did your time at the school help shape your career?

I learned the importance of independence. So much of the independence and the drive I have was honed at Hotchkiss. It has been invaluable throughout my life.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I love to go fly fishing with my son. I took a class with Mr. Charlie Frankenbach in my Senior year, and it made me fall in love with fly fishing.

I absolutely love to travel with my kids all over the world.

I also love to cook because it allows me to be creative.