In the Spotlight Designer of the Month: Melanie Maggio
What career did you have before starting Jacto?
Before Jacto, I was a designer for industry-leading global fashion footwear companies building collections for top retailers.
How did the concept of Jacto come to be?
During my time as a footwear designer, I grew concerned about the massive amount of waste we were creating throughout the design process. I wanted to start a company that could deliver the same level of excitement for consumers while using upcycled materials to eliminate the waste.
You teamed up with Poull Brien at Wild Fish Direct, tell me why fish? and how does this help our oceans?
I met one of the spearfishermen Poull was working with at Wild Fish Direct and saw this beautiful tooth from a snapper he harvested. When I learned that the jaws, bones and skin from seafood are thrown away I was inspired to turn them into something that would start conversations and show the value of what we take from the sea.
Its amazing that all your pieces are Nickle-Free! Why do you use recycled metals for your jewelry?
Recycled metals reduce the need to mine new metals and align with Jacto's mission to reduce waste. My top priority is to ensure that every component and step in Jacto’s design process is ethical and sustainable.
How do you like to spend your free time?
With family and friends.
Do you have any New Year's resolutions or hopes for 2021?
To spend more time enjoying recreational sports, and taking a weekend trip to Vermont to go snowboarding with friends.
What is your favorite food, and drink?
- Favorite food: pizza
- Favorite drink: Cabernet
What is your current favorite song to listen to?
Favorite song at the moment: The Teskey Brothers - Hold Me
What is your favorite quote?
Favorite Quote: I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. - Maya Angelou
People Love Us On Yelp
2018 Award Recipient
