We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lyss Gunther a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Lyss, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

I’m very fortunate that I have a kind, loving and supportive mom. She taught me to always give whatever I’m doing my best effort, that failing was ok – learn from it, but most importantly to treat EVERYONE with respect regardless of race, religion, socioeconomic status etc. Inside we are all the same. We are human beings with hopes, dreams, failings and feelings! There is too much hate and division and life is already tough enough. It takes no effort to be kind and treat each other with dignity and respect. It’s a motto I try to live by and am grateful that I had a mom who not only taught me that, but lives it every day.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I started making handmade jewelry a few years ago as I didn’t want to wear mass produced jewelry worn by so many others. I wanted something unique that fit my personality and vibe. People started noticing and asking where I bought my jewelry. Imagine my surprise when I told people I made it and some started asking if I would make jewelry for them! And so my journey began….

Today I draw inspiration from the vibrant community around me to create unique and one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry. Creating pieces inspired by celestial, ethereal, and alternative designs speaks to me the most, but I have a variety of styles so I’m sure you can find the piece that is perfect for you! If you don’t see quite what you are looking for I invite you to reach out. There is nothing I love more than making custom jewelry unique to you!

Using a blend of traditional techniques and innovative design, my goal is to create not just jewelry, but high quality wearable art that stands out and speaks to the individual who wears it. Through my art, I seek to inspire and uplift others, inviting them to find their own beauty and uniqueness. With each handmade piece, I hope to leave a lasting impression on both the wearer and the world.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Earlier this year my employer decided to consolidate positions and I lost my job. This immediately put me into panic mode, but shortly after I realized that it actually gave me a great opportunity to really focus on my passion!

I’ve been making and selling my handmade jewelry and accessories part-time and never had enough time to focus on growing my business. Additionally, I could almost never attend markets as I worked my day job on Saturdays, which is when most markets are scheduled. Now I had the chance to really invest in my business, and myself! I’m participating frequently in markets, learning which are a good fit for my style and meeting so many amazing people along the way. I’m also have the time now to continue to learn and grow in my craft. I’m excited to be expanding my skills in metal craft and making more elaborate wire wrapped jewelry.

I’m still a long way from being able to support myself solely from my jewelry business, but am getting there a step at a time. A big thank you to all my great customers who are supporting me grow my business and allowing me to turn my passion for self-expression, art and jewelry into my life’s work!

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Markets – hands down! It’s challenging to sell online as it’s so hard to compete with big businesses who can afford sponsored ads, which of course means their businesses come up first when people do online searches. Markets give people an opportunity to see my work first hand, and give me an opportunity to meet new people and form relationships. I’ve begun to get repeat customers, and custom jewelry requests, which I LOVE to do! Nothing is more satisfying than working with a customer to bring their vision to life!

I’ll be participating in markets in the Raleigh/Durham area almost every weekend starting in September. You can see a list of Markets I’m attending on my website (which will be updated several weeks in advance). I hope you’ll come out to see me and the other great vendors, and have fun at some great events and venues!

I’d like to give a shout out to a few places that have been so supportive of me and local small businesses like mine. There are too many to list, but a special thanks to Durham’s ‘The Fruit’, ‘Safe Space Salon’, and ‘The Durty Bull. And a big thank you to everyone for supporting your local small businesses!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Astral-Accessories.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/astral.accessories.by.lyss
• Facebook: http://facebook.com/Astral.Accessories.by.Lyss
• Other: https://linktr.ee/astral_accessories