Claudia Grundman

Little did she know that when Claudia decided to pursue her life long dream of designing jewelry that her designs would be coveted by celebrities and entertainers across North America. 

Noted for their raw, edgy design, the collection is swarming the press in fashion mags from coast to coast.  Winner of best Canadian Jewelry Designer in 2005, it was only a matter of time for New York, LA and Miami to want a piece of the action.   

As a young child, Claudia had always known she wanted to design her own line.  What she didn’t know was that a personal tragedy would be her opportunity to launch her dream. Claudia’s grandmother, Helene Teblum, was a haute couture designer in Montreal and as a young girl Claudia loved to watch her work in her shop.  Her grandmother was such an inspiration that Claudia couldn’t wait to run home and sketch her own creations after their visits.  Sadly her grandmother passed away when Claudia was just 9 years old but the impact of those precious moments watching her work would last a lifetime.  Claudia’s desire to become a designer was not only in her genes but also in her blood.   

A graduate from Lasalle College in fashion marketing, Claudia began her career as a manager at several retail locations before landing a job designing for stores like Wal Mart and Zellers.   An amazing opportunity for someone fresh out of school.   Six months after beginning her new career Claudia suffered a work related injury.  It was January 1999 at the age of 23 Claudia was poised to start a new and successful year.  At the age of 23, Claudia suffered a severe concussion after falling and hitting her head on a metal fedex box.  Doctor after doctor prescribed the devastating news that her life would never be the same. 

Bed ridden for two years she was advised that she could only work a few hours a week and her reading capabilities would be permanently damaged.   Claudia refused to believe the doctors’ prognosis. To this day her eyes are quite sensitive, they simply shut down after being taxed for too long and she often suffers from migraines but that wouldn’t put the brakes on this creative force.  

Young and armed with an indomitable spirit Claudia was not going to put her life, nor her career on hold.  She started to make bracelets and key chains and people started to take notice.  She was then asked to design a line of belts for a friend’s company.   After one season she knew that this is what she wanted to do!  She came up with a business plan and proposed it to her mother (and now business partner) and Claudia Accessories was ultimately born!   

Not being one to be influenced by the masses, Claudia prides herself on creating what she feels.  Her vision consists of designs that are both edgy yet elegant.  Her celebrity fans include the likes of Sharon Stone, Rhianna, Kelly Clarkson and Melissa O’Neil. 

Claudia is a big believer and a living testimony to the old adage -  everything does happen for a reason.  Had it not been for the accident, she would never had started her own company at such a young age. What many would consider a huge set back, Claudia considers an invaluable gift.