Meet Julie Kelley | Jewelry Designer & Creator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Julie Kelley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Probably like many, it grew organically. I started making pieces for friends and family and slowly started putting myself out there by attending local markets. I was, and still am, buoyed by the responses of people visiting my booth. Whether they buy or not, their comments and encouragements are gold – but buying is great too!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I try to keep in mind when the going gets tough to embrace the journey. That’s what makes the successes even more joyful. It’s definitely not easy but I try. I believe that staying true to your own art and creations is what brings the most gratification as an artist. Conversely, there is the challenge of envisioning someone else’s vision when doing custom work. It’s an emotional moment when the customer says, “it’s perfect – exactly what I wanted!”.
My husband often says to me, “call each challenge teacher and friend” and I reflect on that when I’m frustrated or perceive things not going as planned. Sometimes the “wrong” path is actually the right path.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
There is so much to see and explore in the Lowcountry, I’m not sure a week is long enough! As far as places to visit, I would go the Angel Oak tree – it’s magnificent. The beaches, of course, I love Breach Inlet. Deepwater Vineyard is a great way to spend an afternoon under the shade of the oaks while enjoying local wine. And the drive there is so beautiful under the oak tree canopies. I also like to go to Island Cabana and grab a beverage and walk to the end of the pier and watch the container ships go under the Ravenel Bridge. Fossil hunting might be one of my favorite things to do! Plus all of the usual tourist spots in downtown Charleston with its rich history.

Where to begin with food! My favorites are Husk, Lewis BBQ, Rodney Scott’s BBQ, The Royal Tern, Minero, FIG and I’m sure I’ll think of many more after the interview.

I love being a part of Southern Reutz Maker Mall in the historic French Quarter of Charleston. It’s home to over 60 vendors which are comprised of women owned and veteran owned businesses. It was the brainchild of Laura Voth, who owns Southern Reutz Hat Bar.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
How does one narrow this down? At 62 years old, there are so many people/places that have greatly influenced me. I guess first and foremost are my parents, John and Sherrill Arnet. My Dad fostered in me a love of the outdoors and that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Dream big and go for it, what do you have to lose?! The love and support from my family is paramount to my success – who is more honest and open with honest opinions than them, and I’m grateful! My husband, Michael talks me off the ledge when I’m panicking and/or feeling overwhelmed. He is always a voice of reason, encouragement and love. I’m also grateful to all of the vendors and artists that have helped me along the way with tips and advice. It’s a family I love being a part of.

Website: https://www.quandarycraftworks.com

Instagram: @quandarycraftworks

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