Today we’d like to introduce you to Shay Simmons
Hi Shay, 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?
Before it had a name, G. Demae Accessories started as a hobby and craft. When I was a little girl, I would hunt for sparkly rocks and pick wildflowers to make crowns for my mother. During art class and summer camp, I would proudly bring home my macaroni sculptures and clay necklaces to gift to her.
During college, my love for creating began to wither, but I still really enjoyed wearing unique jewelry. As a young adult, I noticed that certain jewelry lacked variety and flair. I also grew frustrated with the lack of unique experiences with jewelry. I loved the idea of having a piece of jewelry that very few people could copy, so I began making my own or repurposing materials
When I would go to special events, people would compliment my earrings and rings that I made for myself. When I told them that I made them myself, they asked how they could get some, too. This was the beginning of G. Demae Accessories.
I later discovered a deep love of all things crystal and gemstones and HAD to incorporate them into my business. My husband and I began to travel the country in search of the best materials we can get for our GEMS (Glorious Elite Members). We hiked the mountains in Utah and mined for Topaz. We traveled the back roads of North Carolina to dig for white quartz and Amethyst. We’ve hopped into some quarries to hunt for clear quartz and so many more adventures. If we don’t mine for the materials ourselves, we support locally-owned crystal shops and other jewelers that offer mindfully sourced materials.
We began to involve ourselves in vendor events throughout the community like San Diego Moms, Woman’s Club of Carlsbad, and Sunset Market in Oceanside. We’ve had the opportunity to work with local artists and community activists in San Diego. We’ve also been published in several magazines, which we are extremely proud of.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being a small business, owner and entrepreneur has not been easy, but it has been the most fulfilling thing for me. When I started G. Demae, one of the biggest struggles I had was feeling like I didn’t belong in the jewelry industry. Though the entire basis of my business is being unique and standing out, I struggled with the idea of being in a lane of my own and wondered if I had studied enough, created, contributed enough, or if my jewelry was good enough to stand with others in the industry. With every single order I receive, I am reminded that I am exactly where I should be.
Another big struggle that I have, is with wearing multiple hats. I am the Chief Designer, Social Media Manager, Fulfillment Center Employee, Warehouse Manager, Travel Coordinator, and maybe a few other titles I’m forgetting. Managing all of these roles and performing them well can be a challenge, and at times I wondered if I was in over my head, or if it was time to start building a team.
The last struggle I’ll discuss is the constant need to relocate my business. So far, G. Demae has called 3 states, and over 5 cities its home. My job and my business partner’s job keep us busy and traveling, so we’ve had to uproot several times, which is taxing, considering that relocation is also coordinated by me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At G. Demae Accessories, we offer hand-crafted gemstone jewelry, wire-wrapped crystal crowns, faux piercing jewelry, crystal sunglasses, and paracord keychains. We also offer mindfully sourced crystals and stones. We are set apart because we travel the country in search of materials that are sourced with ethics by supporting local artists and crystal shops, as well as mining for our material.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Taking risks is scary. As a creative who strives to remain authentic to herself, as well as her community, it’s important to take certain risks, especially in the fashion industry. Honestly speaking, taking risks is what helps me to stand out. My decision to take a risk on a quirky design idea, work with a new client or speak with a well-respected magazine like SD Voyager, can put me in a position to expand my skills and meet some amazing people. With most creative decisions I make, the risk is worth the reward, because I get to express myself through my art, whether it is widely received or not. I find that to be very special.
Pricing:
- Crowns & Tiaras $100 & Up
- Crystals $3 & Up
- Rings $25 & Up
- Necklaces $50 & Up
- Glasses/Frames $75 & Up
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/gdemae/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/gdemae
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/gdemae
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@gdemae?_t=8qAjnQrmZod&_r=1
