Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Dandrea.
Hi Crystal, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always had severe anxiety. Going into college I didn’t know what path to take and began feeling like my social anxiety was holding me back from pursuing certain ambitions. Knowing this, my mom introduced the idea of starting my own business, specifically making jewelry. We self-taught ourselves how to string and wire wrap gemstones and then we’d try to sell our creations at farmer’s markets. It didn’t go as well as we hoped, but that experience planted the seed that I needed moving forward. When I graduated college, I created Crystal Kim Designs. Crystal Kim Designs is my name and my mom’s name. I wanted to honor her in some way, because her influence really helped me get started. I decided to switch from beads to charms and began focusing on writing positive messages. I hope to create meaningful gifts that not only foster our relationships with others, but also the relationship we have with ourselves.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Managing my anxiety while managing my business has always been a challenge. I overthink everything and have terrible social anxiety. This can be particularly challenging since I have to play every role in my business. It’s definitely a balancing act and is something I’m still working on.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I create jewelry pieces partnered with positive messaging. When I first started, my pieces were mostly celebratory and the messages were meant to celebrate the people and moments that make life special. Today, my collection is becoming a little more personal, revolving around my life and mental health. Crystal Kim Designs has been a way for me to express myself and connect with others. It’s heartwarming hearing customers’ stories and how my messages are helping them or a loved one. It makes me really happy.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Patience. I think giving myself permission to go at my own pace has helped a lot. When you feel like you are not progressing as you should or as fast as you wanted, it causes a lot of strain and self-doubt. This can hinder your growth and success. Being patient with myself has given me the time to grow and the space for trial and error, which is so important.
Contact Info:
- Email: crystal@crystalkimdesigns.com
- Website: www.crystalkimdesigns.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/crystalkimdesigns
Image Credits
Butterfly Set: Phoenicia Byas
