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

Hi Kimberly, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Art allowed me to see the world through different lenses, to communicate in ways that transcend words, and to connect with others on a profound level. Maybe it’s the thrill of translating emotions, stories, and ideas into visual, auditory, or tactile experiences that attracted me to create things.

I reflected on my own path, and it revealed specific moments when I was a kid that made gave me the inspirations that guided me.

Embarking on an artistic journey will always be a fascinating choice I made. My decision might have been influenced by a combination of factors: a deep-seated passion for expressing myself, an innate talent I discovered early on, or perhaps the joy and fulfillment I find in creating something uniquely mine.

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.
KollectionByKim specializes in handmade jewelry that often incorporates elements like leather, gemstones, shells collected from the beaches of SC and real dried flowers. The designs have a boho-chic vibe with a touch of Southern charm. I also create pieces featuring healing crystals and sea-inspired elements like dreamy sea sediment. I am a beach comber and that feeling of just finding something cool is all I need to make me smile. Since I am always out walking and exploring, I started to collect flowers from all over South Carolina and use them in my art pieces now. I combine the sea and land in my jewelry. This is a way, I feel, that you can carry all memories with you, from the ocean to the shore. That is what makes me proud. There are so many artists in wonderful South Carolina that also utilize the ocean for their art, so I always try and want to stand out. That is the biggest challenge. I am constantly creating and designing in my spare time, as I work a full-time job, so I want to try to be unique as much as I can. I have learned so many lessons, and it will never stop. Every event I attend I seem to always figure out a better way to do something and what NOT to do. I learn from others and my mistakes. It is hard, but if you truly love something…don’t let it go!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Charleston is full of magic. There are so many events that cater to local artisans, crafters, and farmers that I can’t name them all. Isle of Palms always has great events during the summer and winter too. Charleston is full of great food and fun. We would visit the South Carolina Aquarium to learn about marine life and get inspired by sea creatures. Take a kayaking trip in the Cooper River to enjoy the water and get some exercise. Unwind with a sunset cruise on the Palmetto Catamaran. Dine at The Ordinary for some upscale seafood and a relaxing evening. Visit the Charleston City Market to explore local crafts and other creators. Take a leisurely stroll through Historic Downtown Charleston to admire the architecture and charm perhaps. My favorite would be to visit Diamond Hill Mine for some gemstone hunting, but that’s just me!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
2024 has been a whirlwind of year! I planned a wedding while working 9-5, got married, still need a honeymoon and so many things to do!. My husband who watched me in our garage for hours creating and designing, would not let me down. He knew what I was doing was making ultimately making my heart happy. He deserves the biggest shoutout for giving me the support and time for me to sit down and create, and still somehow get everything done! (well almost).

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kollectionbykim/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-h-ab7578a0/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KollectionbyKim/

Image Credits
The personal photo of was taken by: Melissa Miley Photography. The additional photos were taken by me, Kimberly Holmes.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSouthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.