I began creating jewelry when I was a child, collecting sea shells and sea glass from the beach near my home in south Florida and using them to create jewelry to give as gifts to my family and friends. In 1999, looking for a creative outlet from my corporate job in entertainment marketing and public relations, I found a way to combine my creative talent with a love of fashion and started my own jewelry line for wedding parties and special events. It wasn't long before people were recognizing my unique style of using an artistic combination of quality materials and detailed graphic patterns to create one-of-a-kind jewelry. After a great response to my designs, I decided to take the next step and start selling to local boutiques. The business grew rapidly and after only a few months, I decided to pursue it full time.
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina prompted me to move from New Orleans to Atlanta. When I began looking to purchase a home in Atlanta, I decided to search for a property that would allow me to continue my home-based business, but have a distinct area where I could meet clients who were looking for custom pieces while also being able to sell my jewelry in a retail store. The work-live townhomes at Kirkwood Station on the eastern side of downtown Atlanta were the perfect option.
After permanently moving to Atlanta, I expanded my business by experimenting with new techniques and materials, became a certified PMC (Precious Metal Clay) instructor and continued my education, taking classes through the Gemological Institute of America.
As of 2023, things have changed for me. Instead of focusing on my career, I need to step back and focus on my health. After years of declining lung function, I am currently waiting for a lung transplant. People always asked me if I was a smoker and no, I never was. My situation was brought on through an autoimmune condition that I have had since childhood.
I don't really know what the future has in store for me, so I am choosing to focus on the present. For now, I am stepping back from creating and I am spending my time waiting for an organ match. I am trying to keep in the best physical condition through a pulmonary excersize regime and paying extra attention to my diet. Being as fit as possible is one of the only ways I can contribute to a positive outcome after transplant. It will be a long and difficult recovery, but I am blessed with support from family and friends to help me on my journey.