Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanzy Ward.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Tanzy. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I remember as a child watching Antique Road Show with my mama and grandma. Even back then, I was fascinated by hearing about the history of the items. I would scroll through Etsy or Ruby Lane, looking at collectibles, and blogs dedicated to old family photos. Even though I’ve always loved vintage culture and antiques, it never really occurred to me that I could turn my passion into a real business until I was around 23 years old. By the time I was in my early 20’s, one of my favorite hobbies included treasure hunting at local thrift stores, online markets, and estate sales. I realized that I could turn my love for treasure hunting into an antique dealing business. I am fascinated with the history and memories attached to an item, and I am very passionate about historic preservation. I often wonder about who owned these collectibles, the events they witnessed, and their memories connected to the items. Currently, my specialization is jewelry, with a focus on antique accessories (at least 100 years old) and vintage hand-crafted artisan pieces. I am excited to begin training for an Antique Appraiser Certification and continuously researching historical facts about the treasures I’ve found. I believe my business promotes sustainability, preserving history, and quality. I adore everything that I sell. So, I’m doing what I love and it is a personal hobby that is quite funny to me.
As for creating art, that has been a hobby of mine for years due to my fascination and admiration for scenic nature views. I love creating my own abstract perspective of the scenic nature landscapes I see.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Just like other paths and ventures, there have been lows and sometimes slow progression… but it is still valuable progression! There was a time when I would put my regular full-time job first, then go home and not spend quality time on my own business or creating art. I would get sloppy and impatient with my product photography or have no desire to paint. I would get frustrated with slow sales, and not put quality time into my business even though I wanted a rewarding outcome in return. No matter the obstacle, remember why you started doing what you’re doing and let your passion drive you to continue. Don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s because the path you are walking is specifically meant for you. Instead of focusing on all the things that could go wrong or hardships, think about all of the endless positive possibilities as well. No one said it would be easy or peachy all the time, but we are still breathing and alive for a purposeful reason… remember that at all times.
Please tell us about Zanathia Jewelry.
I love creating landscape abstract paintings and treasure hunting for quality antique and vintage artisan jewelry. I’m fascinated with old photography, antique collectibles, and using nature as inspiration for my artwork. I am happy that my business focuses on historic preservation and sustainability. Antique and vintage jewelry are memory-filled treasures that support recycling and is very eco-friendly to our environments. My business, Zanathia Jewelry, focuses on preserving history and the memories connected with an item. I run a small independent business and store blog, which includes taking time to research the history behind my jewelry and helping others learn more interesting facts or events relating to the goods I sell.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that a lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
I seek out people who will give me positive constructive criticism and who love to uplift others when it comes to mentor-like relationships. I would recommend networking with people who understand your vision and are genuinely interested in what you have to offer. Don’t network just to attend an event, only to realize it is not catering to your interests or the vibe isn’t right. I know there are many other vintage enthusiasts like myself, and I seek to network with people who appreciate what I have to offer.
Contact Info:
- Website: zanathiajewelry.com
- Email: zanathiastore@gmail.com
- Instagram: ZanathiaVintage
- Facebook: ZanathiaVintageJewelry
Image Credit:
Photographer: Tanzy Ward
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