We were lucky to catch up with Danielle Nicole recently and have shared our conversation below.

Danielle, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I’m a self taught jewelry designer. I was in college and needed jewelry to match my outfit for a cabaret. I searched high and low, but was unable to find what I was looking for. I found a design that I liked, but it wasn’t in the color that I wanted. So I decided to purchase 2. I deconstructed 1 and took the pieces to the local craft store. I asked them to show me everything I would need to make a new necklace and the rest is creative history! 2024 marks 20 years of creating jewelry for me.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started my creative jewelry journey at Kentucky State University in 2004. 20 years later I’ve had the honor of having my creations in various fashion US and International magazines and was lucky enough to have my pieces walk the runway for Fashion Week Columbus.

I love that when you put a Nontle piece of jewelry on you can feel the power and presence. Each piece has its own story and vibe. And, because I only create 1 of 1 pieces, you will always be the only person with your piece. My customers love the exclusivity that the Nontle Lifestyle brand is known for.

I source a good amount of my materials from local artisans and vendors that I have met during my travels. For example, the brass I work with comes from an artist I met in Nairobi, Kenya. His family practices the art of lost wax casting. I was able to see his shop and was able to do a workshop while I was there. I love being able to make these connections and I appreciate what my personal art does to help another small business.

I love working with a combination of gemstones and other natural materials. 1 of my favorite materials to work with is African Cow Horn.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Showing up as myself every day! And I love the freedom that comes with being a creative person. There is no right or wrong way to create, just the way that works best for you.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Society can focus on affordable housing for creatives. When artists don’t have to worry about the high cost of living they have the opportunity to pour more into their craft, which helps society overall. I can’t think of a modern society that’s not heavily impacted by the arts in some way.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.nontle.com
• Instagram: NontleLifestyle
• Facebook: NontleLifestyle
• Linkedin: Danielle-Nicole
• Twitter: NontleLifestyle