Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharon Schaefer.
Sharon, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have always been creative. Fashion has always been a hobby of mine. When my only son was becoming more independent, I had to find something to keep myself busy and stop the “hovering”. I researched an avenue where I could be creative and bring meaning to others. Turned out the perfect place was a workshop in metals. Originally I was making talismans as gifts for friends, in memory of a loved one or to mark a special occasion.
Instead of a token, I thought my designs would be cool in a Bohemian sense as pendants or the popular bracelet charm. I was even at a fine jewelry store and the jeweler saw my pendant and told me I should sell them. Friends wanted to buy my designs and then friends of those friends… and so my business was formed. BEE is my nickname and I want my designs to BEE fashionable and to BEE meaningful. I continue to learn and study metalsmithing and am a member @ the Metal Arts Guild of Georgia (MAGG).
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
A challenge I’ve had to face is the balance of running a business and still making time for family and friends. SO managing time is difficult when you are the designer, manager, buyer, seller, and janitor of a home-based business.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Designs By Bee – what should we know?
My nickname is BEE. My business is Designs by BEE…. when you need it to BEE meaningful I try to stay true to my tagline. Why wear a mass manufactured piece of jewelry when you can wear something fashionable and meaningful? I specialize in bronze metals that are patina’d because the result is a warm earthy quality in the pendant or charm. I also work in silver and am learning new techniques to work into my designs. I love the bohemian style with a conservative edge.
I hand carve my warrior angel pendant… (an item I am most proud of). A process of working with bronze gold metal clay I have studied since 2012. I solder worry stones which are fashionable and allow the wearer to touch and rub the concave stone with their thumb to ease their anxiety. Sort of like and adult version of a fidget.
What sets me apart from other jewelry designers is my ability to hand-make most of my jewelry components. If I am not with my family or friends you will find me in one of my studios with an order list to bring meaning into the lives of others.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I love to laugh and to smile. I don’t take life too seriously. I love meeting other women and to get feedback on what word or symbol would bring meaning to their life. Although I spend quite a bit of solo time in my studios I enjoy being around other women and how they make their way in this crazy world we live in.
Contact Info:
- Website: Designsbybee.com
- Phone: 6784635598
- Email: bee@designsbybee.com
- Instagram: designsbybeega
- Facebook: designs by bee
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
CHRISTIN KENNEDY
July 3, 2018 at 6:42 pm
Sharon rocks, as a designer and a friend. She has great ideas, is very thoughtful, and is always up for something new. I have several of her pieces and get complimented every time I wear them.
Rock on, my friend!
Bee
July 5, 2018 at 2:32 pm
Sweet to see the love. Thank you for bee’ing my friend.
Shyni P. Sheregar
July 4, 2018 at 3:35 pm
I’ve known Sharon since 2000. I lovingly call her “Sister Sharon” because she’s definitely been more than just a friend to me. I’ve had the privilege of seeing her creative side aside from Designs by BEE. She has made me the most beautiful handmade cards over the years, put together a fabulous fruit spread for me in the form of a watermelon basket filled with fresh fruits and she would create and design all of the signs for various events and occasions at River Laurel. I also am the proud owner of several Designs by BEE exclusive jewelry pieces that I love to sport. Get it Sister Sharon!
Bee
July 5, 2018 at 2:33 pm
OH yes! Such kindness from my sister Shyni. I am bee’ing grateful for your friendship.
Judy Hamilton
July 4, 2018 at 7:59 pm
Our Queen Bee is the most creative Bee on the planet— whether planning parties or making invitations or that special card, she has the best ideas! Her jewelry is beautiful and her fashion sense is always spot on—and has the best sense of humor on top of it all! Most of all she is the most caring friend anyone could have. She puts the Bee in Beeing meaningful!
Bee
July 5, 2018 at 2:36 pm
Oh yes, I am always bee’ing kind, humorous & supportive. Thank you Miss Judy. You are the guiding light in my world. My southern touch stone. Love you. (making heart shape with hands)