Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kristin Burlingame. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Kristin thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?

We hit the ground 🔥RUNNING🔥 in October 2024, and it has been the wildest and most rewarding adventure!
From working with our local NBTX small businesses, blessing charities that are close to my heart, building our booth in Fredericksburg, traveling to out of state events, making countless friends along the way and even hiring our first employee! Wild Rivers has come further than I ever thought possible in such a short amount of time!
Throughout my life, I’ve always felt led to do something more. Something that would make a difference in other’s lives and add that extra little sparkle to people’s day to day. It’s important to me to create a business that is not only successful, but intentional in allowing me to give back to my community and support my family.
Our story all started with matching bracelets on a family vacation.
Even my grandma (you know, the super picky one who doesn’t just throw out out compliments easily?) was in love with hers! That was my “aha” moment. If something as simple as a bracelet could spark joy across generations, I knew I was onto something special. 🤍
Here’s the thing: it’s more than just jewelry to me.
There is something powerful about a piece of jewelry that never comes off. A promise, a memory, a connection that stays with you every single day. At Wild Rivers, we don’t just create jewelry; we create keepsakes.
That’s why every piece I make is prayed over, asking that whoever wears it feels beautiful, confident, and deeply loved. And maybe even a little wild—because life is too short not to sparkle.
Our name, Wild Rivers Permanent Jewelry was inspired by the two wildest loves of my life, my sons, both named after rivers.
Like our jewelry, these brothers are
forever welded together in their
bond, and I am so blessed to have
them as my motivation and
inspiration every day!
Our hope is that every bracelet, anklet, or necklace brings joy and reminds you of the people and moments that matter most.

Kristin, 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?

Wild Rivers Permanent Jewelry is rooted in connection and creating special moments. I custom-fit permanent bracelets, anklets, necklaces, and charms using high-quality materials like gold-filled and stainless steel. We focus on creating jewelry that doesn’t just look good—it means something. A friendship. A vow. A moment in time.

Before launching Wild Rivers, I was a stay-at-home mom always chasing that bigger purpose outside the home. I wanted to build something bigger than myself. Something my kids could see and say, “Mom did that.”

What sets us apart isn’t just the jewelry, it’s the heart behind it. Every piece is made with prayer and purpose. I want people to feel beautiful in their own skin, whether they’re getting linked with their best friend, their spouse, or just celebrating themselves.

I’ve worked wedding parties, markets, pageants, and even created custom fundraiser charms. From New Braunfels to the rest of Texas Hill Country and even parts of Colorado, I’ve met so many amazing people who have now become great friends, and it’s those connections, along with my family that fuels everything I do.

I’m most proud of how far we’ve come— and honestly, I’m proud of myself too. It’s not easy to create something out of nothing. Or to start something you’ve never done before. I believe it’s important to recognize where you came from and celebrate your accomplishments! I hope my story inspires someone to take that first leap and bet on themselves! From a pop-up table to hiring our first employee. And trust me, we’re just getting started!

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

The biggest lesson I’ve had to unlearn was doubting my own capabilities. Since starting my own small business, I’ve learned how far believing in yourself can take you!

I used to think I had to have it all figured out before starting something. But Wild Rivers taught me that you learn by leaping. Betting on yourself can be scary, especially when you’re juggling mom life, bills, and self-doubt. But it’s necessary.

Now, I lean into manifestation and prayer. I speak it into existence, I work hard, and I trust that the right doors will open. If I fail? At least I fail forward. But more often than not—God, grit, and good vibes carry me through.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Two things: genuine kindness and unshakeable faith.

I’m bubbly and talkative—I love connecting with people. Whether it’s a customer at a market or a bride at a wedding, I treat everyone like a friend. I’ve built my brand on positive energy and being someone people feel comfortable around.

But I also strive to be resilient. I’ve had slow days, no-sale days, and “why am I doing this?” days. But I don’t let them win. I pray. I manifest. And I show up again the next day. I think people respect that. They see the heart, the hustle, and the authenticity—and that’s what sticks. 🫶🏼

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.WildRiversPermanentJewelry.com
• Instagram: @WildRiversPJ
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16qvEaDv6B/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Other: TikTok- WildRiversPJ

  The Knot- theknot.com/marketplace/wild-rivers-permanent-jewelry-new-braunfels-tx-2088184

  The Hills Wedding Guide
  https://thehillsweddingguide.com/vendors/unique-vendor-services/wild-river-permanent-jewelry/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLo0fVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp_aC1pQu-yRGHOFu6ggQyS-ARjhtNKFMFRxq_p_wbYXhODW1yHrOdGAsPJzQ_aem_FMCU_FHCdaKhssYlNFseaQ

Image Credits

https://www.instagram.com/lomonicophotography?igsh=ejZyMGwwczc5aTBl