About
From 9 to 5 to a
Jewelry Company
Yes, it is true, I took a chance, a leap of faith perhaps and left a successful career in IT to create a company where I make one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted jewelry. All because of a beginner jewelry class taken many years ago. While working in a high-stress environment for a well-known software company, a jewelry making class was offered. While sitting in a classroom with 40 or 50 other willing learners who were given very little co-design guidance, my idea ignited. Everyone’s project was pretty much the same and no real learning or creativity occurred. While the class was average, it renewed a passion for a well-loved hobby from my teen years. And that is when it happened. My spark for making jewelry part-time started as my IT career continued. That was 2002.
From making jewelry on my own, it seemed a natural progression to honing my craft and start teaching jewelry making classes too. By 2014 classes were available all over the Triangle and beyond. Ladies hired me to do private groups, teen classes and more. Varying in skill levels and extent of projects, each student designs and creates their own piece of jewelry – leaving with a unique, lovely and treasured creation. Emphasis on each student’s preferences in design.
Eventually, my part-time ‘hobby’ and teaching of classes evolved into a full-blown passion in 2016 – Carolina Pearl, LLC. That is when I decided to leave corporate America. My classes are taught at my studio in the Raleigh area, as well as the Town of Fuquay Arts Center, Town of Cary Arts Center, Fera’wyn’s Chocolate Café in Holly Springs, Durham Arts Council and other venues throughout NC. Constantly changing and improving designs, each piece is made with pride and the best grade of materials including pearls, Swarovski crystals, stones, beads, gold and silver of the highest quality. Also, in 2019 I became a Certified Pearl Specialist and in 2020 was awarded the ‘Pearls as One’ certification from the Cultured Pearl Association of America.
My work has been featured on TV and in several magazines, online interviews, and blogs. We even have a YouTube Channel: CarolinaPearl, LLC!
Going from the corporate grind to my own company was a risk. One worth taking. The result is a life well-lived, fulfilling, and one that brings me great joy. It is a one-of-a-kind life, hand-crafted by me. Just like every design that I make – full of sparkle and individuality – just like the woman who wears it. That’s the core of my business. Each piece is as beautiful and unique as you are.
Organizations I Support
