Lexitori: The next generation

When Keri Henry’s parents Norris and Sonia started their business over 30 years ago, it was with the expectation that their artistic children would continue the line.

“My father was always good with his hands, moreso when it came to wood. And so was my mother, especially when it came to handling a sewing machine,” Henry told All Woman.

“And so with the passion that both of them had for making things with their hands, my parents started the business — SN Krafts Ltd — out of our garage at home. Over time the business expanded to the point where my mother was able to quit her job. My father was next in line to join the company.”

With over 20 years in the industry SN Krafts Ltd, located in Linstead, St Catherine, specialises in woodworking and designing with signature pieces being antique clocks and souvenirs.

After obtaining a marketing degree from studying abroad, Henry came home and joined her mother, father and now brother full-time in the business.

In 2013 she took the plunge with the help and support of her family and launched her bold and intricate jewellery line.

“Lexitori Designs is my accessories business which is essentially a branch of the family business,” she said.

“At that time I felt as if I wanted to diversify the offerings of our company. I didn’t want to limit the offerings of our company to souvenirs.”

She said what sells most is her hand-painted wooden earrings and her multi- coloured leather cuffs.

Also, with jewellery boxes made from mahoe and cedar, Henry focuses on using mostly Jamaican raw materials.

“I find that wood is durable, resilient and easy to work with,” she said.

With hopes of her brand becoming international, now Henry is focused on ensuring islandwide distribution of her products.

“I would love for Lexitori to be a household name,” she said.

“My pieces are like wearable art; they make a bold statement all by themselves. Not only can they be stand alone pieces, but they can complement whatever you decide to mix and match them with.”

Lexi and Tori are the names of Henry’s twin girls.