Christian Keesee has a keen eye for both jewelry and business. The entrepreneur launched his company, Beekman New York, to cater to clients looking to borrow exceptional high-end jewelry pieces to complete their look for a special occasion.
The past decade has made it easy and accessible for anyone who loves fashion to rent an incredible outfit for a night, a weekend, or a week - perhaps even that six figure gown that really impresses. But to truly look special occasion-worthy, an exquisite jewel is the finishing touch that will take it to another level. Beekman New York offers pieces by all the greats - Cartier, David Webb, Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, to name a few - and original pieces by emerging designers discovered by Keesee’s keen eye.
Christian Keesee
"The reason I started Beekman was because I saw that there was a need," said Keesee. "It’s a new, niche idea riding on the sharing mentality which has become so popular in the United States and has become so successful. Our model has always been focused on jewelry rentals and an elevated client experience. Though we first launched in February 2020, just before the pandemic, we have since seen a resurgence in demand, particularly tied to special events."
Keesee expounded on his vision for Beekman, how it works, and his near-term plans for the company.
Bulgari Necklace
Have you always been interested in jewelry?
I’ve always been interested in jewelry because the people around me have always been interested in jewelry. There were jewelry stories I remember growing up – such as a special delivery from David Webb that once arrived on a Sunday, a day when typically, the postman wouldn’t deliver - or a wonderful emerald necklace of my grandmother’s, which she would bring out for what she called ‘State Occasions’. These memories are part of what makes me excited to share our special jewelry with clients to make their own memories.
How does it work?
Essentially the process is: Browse, borrow, wear and return. Guests can browse the user-friendly platform to discover the perfect piece of jewelry they are looking for. Our concierge is available to provide styling advice or assistance. First-time users can register to borrow, and a membership option exists, which allows for greater access to the collection. Rentals range from $15/day, and up to $1,500/day, all with a minimum 3-day rental.
The Beekman in-house styling team works with clients by phone, by video call, and email, to talk through your options. Members can even email outfits to our in-house stylists, and we will send back a lookbook of suggested pairings within 24 hours of the request. The concierge team is available to ensure a seamless experience from start to finish.
Umrao Gold Earrings
Who is your target customer?
We see our customer base as super-educated, successful, and interested in the best jewelry. The core client is between 25 and 45. We also appeal to an older clientele that owns their own collection of jewelry but is savvy, stylish, and wants to see new things.
Can a customer choose online or is necessary to go to the showroom?
Beekman was designed to be completely digital-forward, with a seamless client experience. One of the features that we offer is our digital consultations. Our members have the opportunity for on-site fittings or off-site fittings (in the Tri-State area for now). Anybody can come in and schedule an appointment to speak to a stylist online.
Do you own your pieces?
Yes, we own the collection. We started building it in 2018. The collection has been expertly sourced and authenticated. Since sustainability is at the core of our brand ethos, and we emphasize the circularity of these timeless jewels, we focus on buying archival pieces directly from the jewelry houses, though there have been a few pieces that have been commissioned especially for us and for our customers. The inventory will keep changing, and we will always be looking at bringing new and interesting pieces into our collection, depending upon what it is that our customers are looking for. We just bought some new earrings from an Indian designer named Akshat Ghiya. He’s bright and he’s young and his jewelry has a contemporary vibe which I think will resonate well.
Diamond and Platinum Riviere Necklace
How do you choose to acquire the pieces?
We look for pieces that fit our vision - which is to be artistic, to be design driven, and most importantly to be pieces that our clients would love to borrow. We appreciate the heritage of the iconic houses that have made jewelry and important jewelry over the years… though there is a lot of beautiful jewelry that isn’t signed.
Do you have an expert on staff?
Our entire staff are experts. Keith Rosen, the company’s President, has more than 25 years of experience in the luxury sector, specializing in fine jewelry and timepieces. Several of our staff are GIA-certified and all have experience with fine jewelry.
Do you foresee expanding to other cities?
When I started Beekman I wanted it to have a very New York vibe. Beekman is a place; it’s a family. The name conjures up the idea of New York, which is one of the reasons why we use it. However, anybody from the United States is a potential Beekman customer. We're very happy with where we are right now because anyone in The United States can rent from Beekman with ease.
