Conversations with Danielle Beaty

Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Beaty.

Hi Danielle, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I began my business in 2004 with a passion for creating, being a military spouse, and needing a portable career. I initially started in graphic design and, after having my first child, decided to choose a field that allowed me to stay at home and continue to use my artistry more personally. I wanted to make art to touch people and remain part of their family history. Having spent most of my life along the shore, I connected to sand and sea throughout my design process. There is something cathartic about the water, an element that none of us are strangers to. It draws all of us back to its side- for play, work, relaxation, and healing. As a sailor, I also have a profound love and respect for the ocean, wanting to stay connected to conservation efforts and maintain its longevity. My jewelry collections touch on various coastal regions across the globe, and I enjoy delving into and highlighting the unique cultural influences of those areas in my work. Historically, jewelry has always told a people’s story, customs, and environment. I strive to continue creating fine jewelry with that same purpose and old-world craftsmanship.

You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
The life of an entrepreneur is always a challenge. We wear many hats and must be well-versed in all of them and resourceful. As a jewelry designer, the challenge is remaining unique and authentic to your voice and avoiding trends. The jewelry market is highly saturated, so staying true to who you are and your beliefs can help you stand out. Continued education in our field can be a financial challenge, as mental arts are costly in acquiring skills and equipment. Because of that, I also instruct with the College of the Albemarle at their Dare County campus and privately in my home studio. I want people to have access to information that came at a much steeper learning curve for me.

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Living along the Outer Banks, I can work with other like-minded organizations and directly impact our community positively and relevantly. Sea turtle conservation, coastal study organizations, green initiatives & outdoor enthusiast groups are part of my deeper focus. It is important to me that I design jewelry that has a purpose, tells a story and brings people to the table to discuss something meaningful.

Recently, I’ve been featured with Our State Magazine, having won Honorable Mention in the Made in NC Awards for a commemorative ring that features the Mountains to Sea Trail. It’s a journey of almost 1200 miles across the entire NC state on a trail volunteers maintain. Highlighting the challenge of that journey and the trail itself, and the people connected to it was a deeply satisfying accomplishment.

At TurtleBay Jewelry, I spend much of my time creating custom designs. I’m blessed with a roster of clients who allow me to use my voice in my work but still build pieces that meet their needs and speak to the heart. I strive to cultivate a personal connection with each person I create jewelry for. Of all the things I do, I’m most proud of my dedication to those relationships and my commitment to continual growth in both skill and evolution of work.

So, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you before we go? How can they support you?
I love collaborating with those who share the same mission for conservation and dedication to precision and design quality. To reach me, visit my website at www.TBJStudios.com. You can register for Metalsmith instruction, request a custom design, message me, or purchase current work.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.TBJStudios.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/TurtleBayJewelry
• Facebook: www.Facebook.com/TurtleBayJewelry
• Other: www.TikTok.com/@tbjstudios