Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Ruel.
Courtney, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I had worked in the service industry for years but once finding out in 2014, I was pregnant with my son I quickly started trying out different crafting ideas to bring in income I could do from home. In 2015 is when I decided that glass bottle cutting was my niche and from there Bar Toppers GA was born! I am self-taught and have truly learned everything by trial and error! Glass Cutting is a unique craft but one that drives my creativity in ways I never knew I could. I truly try to repurpose every part of an empty bottle. What I love the most about repurposing glass is all the ways you can reuse them! Whether it’s making soy candles, ashtrays, flower vases, cacti planters, lanterns, lamps, trinket trays and whatever I can think of really! Every piece is handcrafted start to finish by me and is truly one of a kind.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like any craft, they come with obstacles. My main mission is to repurpose old various liquor, beer, wine, and spirit bottles. Sourcing useable bottles may be the most challenging right now as to I am solely working from home with Bar Toppers GA and caring for two children. I was fortunate enough to work for a major mobile bartending service for years and acquired many bottles over the years and made great connections and friends who will help source empties when needed 🙂
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have been lucky enough to have my work featured in many amazing places like The Masters, Atlanta Food and Wine Festival, AmerisMart in Atlanta, AmerisMart in Vegas and many local shops and restaurants all over Atlanta.
How do you think about happiness?
If it doesn’t make you happy, don’t do it!! I am lucky to truly LOVE what I do and it makes me happy!
Pricing:
- Candles start at $29
- Ashtrays/Trinkets start at $25
- Bottle Cutting/Polishing starts at $20
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bartoppersga.net/
- Instagram: @bartoppersga
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bartoppersga
