Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Jolly.
Hi Kristin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve loved making jewelry since middle school, but I focused mostly on beaded jewelry until the end of 2019. At that time, I decided to try incorporating clay into my jewelry and realized how much I enjoy it. I love combining metal findings, clay pieces, and beads to create unique pieces of jewelry.
When I decided I wanted to create a business, coming up with a name was daunting and overwhelming. Then I stumbled upon a poem by Rachel Clift (@r.cliftpoetry) and it resonated with me immediately. So much so that I got “remember both” tattooed on my arm. The poem reads: With every breath you take, every minute that passes, you are living and you are dying. Remember Both.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
One of the biggest struggles that I think most small business owners can relate to is comparing myself to others and feeling inadequate in some way. I fight thoughts of “they use more intricate techniques than I do” or “they sell out during every new launch” and those thoughts do no good for me and my mental health. I have learned that I need to do what I enjoy. Even if I don’t make a single sale this month, it is worth it because creating is what brings me joy, and that is far more valuable.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Clay jewelry has becoming increasingly popular in the past year. It can be difficult to set yourself apart from other clay-makers, but one thing that I have done that sets me apart is creating custom clay portraits. I love that people trust me to create these unique family portraits and it is so sweet to see the different personalizations that are requested.
I have become increasingly proud of the fact that through it all, I have stayed true to myself. I have surely had some “flops” but overall, I try out many different styles and feel that they all represent my personal aesthetic.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Clay jewelry showed up in the past year in a big way. Even in that time, I have seen so many amazing advances in techniques and even more advances in the tools and machines available to clay makers. I think that will only continue in the coming months and years, and I look forward to seeing the direction this industry takes.
As for me personally, I will continue to let my little business grow. I love this creative outlet I have found, and as long as it still brings myself and others joy, I will continue to create.
Contact Info:
- Email: Rememberbothjewelry@
gmail.com - Website: http://etsy.com/shop/
rememberbothjewelry/ - Instagram:Www.Instagram.com/
rememberbothjewelry/
Image Credits
Lauren Jolly Photography
