Trinidadian-American designer and artist Shae Rogers has always had a love for maximalism and jewelry. This love led her to start Paper Papayas, a line of Caribbean-inspired jewelry that doubles as wearable art.
Paper Papayas was born in 2020 after Shae was laid off as a purchasing agent in Hospitality Purchasing. The brand quickly took off and now has a loyal community of fashionable women on social media. Fashion lovers add Paper Papayas earrings as the finishing touch to their look.
Shae releases earring collections based on different aspects of Trinidad and Tobago. The twin island’s ethnic background, food, land and music are her inspiration. Each collection is the result of personal experiences and extensive research of the country dearest to her heart. The end result is a beautiful, vibrant and sculptural pair of earrings made of polymer clay.
We had a chance to chat with Shae about the influence Trinidad has had on her career and her process as a designer. She also blesses us with her insider tips on all things Trini.
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TN: How much has Trinidadian culture influenced your entire life, career and entrepreneurial journey?
SR: I was raised in part by a strong, hardworking mother who is an immigrant from Trinidad. Despite the hardships, my mother always made sure my brother and I had what we needed – we always felt loved and supported.
She always made sure to encourage us to use our natural talents. Although I was born and raised in the United States, all I am and all I know is Trinidadian culture. Because of this, I have felt a unique sense of pride in being able to share a bit of that culture and personal background with others. This has been the mission of my small business.
TN: What inspired you to start Paper Papayas?
SR: I have always been a maximalist at heart. Really big on statement jewelry. I have been an artist for as long as I can remember and have been familiar with polymer clay as a medium for years.
I wanted to try my hand at creating pieces that could be considered “wearable art”. However, between my job and volunteer work, I didn’t have time to fully explore it. At the start of Covid, I was laid off – so I finally had the time and motivation to start something new.
That’s when Paper Papayas was created.
TN: Your pieces are inspired by Trinidad and Tobago, how is your process of creating your collections?
SR: Yes. The themes behind the various collections are inspired by the different aspects of the land, music, ethnicity and food that make Trinidad and Tobago the rich cultural haven that it is.
So I not only draw on my personal experiences, but I also do a lot of research to make sure I’m representing these aspects as accurately as possible in my art.
I try to allow myself to feel through the process, and what comes from the combination of emotion and knowledge is usually what makes the pieces so interesting. I also use the beautiful woman in my family as my biggest inspiration.
TN: What advice do you have for entrepreneurs or people aspiring to create their own brands?
SR: It sounds cliche, but be your authentic self. Whatever you are passionate about, do it! Don’t just start for the money. This will not ensure the longevity of your business/brand. But when your heart is in it, people can sense that and want to be a part of that.
TN: Where do you see Paper Papaya going in the next five years?
SR: Man, I’d just be grateful to still be in business in five years. But honestly, my ultimate goal is to grow. I always want my pieces to be handmade, so I don’t want to mass produce or anything like that. But I want the Paper Papayas name to be known to the fashion and design arena.
TN: Ok, now let’s talk all things Trini – what are the must-see places in Trinidad and Tobago?
SR: OK. First up, Richards Bake and Shark at Maracas Beach.
I’m not big on tourist attractions, however, I really enjoy the natural history of La Brea and the sulfur baths available there. Next time I visit, I would like to go to the Caroni Bird Sanctuary.
Tobago’s beaches are certainly beautiful, my favorites being Englishman’s Bay, Pigeon Point and Rock Rock. Exploring Tobago’s coral reefs is a must!
TN: Favorite Trini foods that everyone should try?
SR: DOUBLE!!! If you try nothing else, please try Doubles. Pelau is essential! Corn Soup and Roti. I love Aloo Pies. And of course, no curry is complete without bus up shut roti.
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TN: You currently live in Las Vegas – are there any Caribbean or Trinidadian locations we should know about?
SR: Unfortunately, Las Vegas doesn’t have many Trini outlets that I know of. My house has become my favorite place for Trini cuisine! But we enjoy House of Dutch Pot, it’s a newer Jamaican restaurant in town. I would also recommend DW Bistro, it is a popular Mexican-Caribbean fusion restaurant.
TN: How can we keep up with you?
SR: Well, you can always follow the girl on Instagram @paperpapayas! I would love to hear from everyone!
Also, you can stay updated on my new styles through my website shoppaperpapayas.com.
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