We recently connected with Brittney Vickers and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Brittney thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
I sort of stumbled into jewelry making. While I have always been a lover of the arts and handmade goods, I took matters into my own hands and got crafty. In December of 2015 I started to watch videos, read books, and dive into the world of silversmithing. I realized how attached to my jewelry I was and how it made me feel whenever I wore it. One of the largest obstacles that continues to stand in my way is finances. Taking proper courses can get extremely pricey and while it would be an investment in my business to take the leap, I’m not ready but I do plan to take the step in the near future. Being able to create and share the same feeling with others has been such an amazing and difficult experience and I cannot wait to see how I can continue to grown and learn in this craft.
Brittney, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I first found out about jewelry making while scrolling Instagram years ago and saw in someone’s bio “self taught jeweler”. I had this “ah ha” moment of wow, if they can teach themselves, why can’t I? I jokingly tell people I went to YouTube University because I would be on the platform researching and watching other metalsmiths who were teaching the trade. I slowly bought all of the materials and started creating. I’ve definitely come a long way but I would love to perfect my craft and tune it even more. I truly love that I am able to create beautiful keepsakes for people to pass down to loved ones through the years. Jewelry is extremely sentimental and precious to me and I hope it shows in my work. I always feel to grateful whenever anyone reaches out for a custom wedding ring or a “just because”piece. We either collaborate together or they give me free creative expression. Custom work is very intimate and special to me. I want my work and my story to empower people to do what brings them joy. To be reminded that this life is short and fleeting and to make the most of it. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it to go for it.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Freedom. I have a pretty flexible schedule which has been a nice shift since starting this endeavor 6, almost 7, years ago. I don’t have to rush into a job that I despise. I am strict with myself when I have to be in the studio and I have deadlines. Not having to rush around in traffic has greatly decreased my anxiety. I know not everyone has this luxury and for that I am forever grateful and I hope I can continue for as long as possible.
How did you build your audience on social media?
Just show up and be authentically yourself. Tell your story and let people know who you are. It’s a slow burn but if you show up genuinely, people will see and feel that energy. Social media can be exhausting and draining but it’s okay to take breaks when necessary and tap back in when you’re feeling it. I do think it’s important to have a presence on social media if you have a business. Don’t try and be perfect, just show up as you are and start! You’ll work the kinks out, I promise.
Contact Info:
- Website: Kaivijewelry.com
- Instagram: @kaivijewelry