An Inspired Chat with Tracey Romain of East Atlanta

Tracey Romain shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Tracey, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
I’m being called to step boldly into the spotlight of my business—and wow, that’s a shift! For the longest time, I felt safe behind the scenes, just posting my wearable art and jewelry, letting the pieces speak for themselves. But now? Now I’m showing up. I’m doing live try-ons, creating content, and letting people see me—the artist, the energy, the passion behind the work.
It’s scary, yes. Vulnerable, definitely. But it’s also exhilarating. I’m realizing that my presence is part of the art. That people connect not just with what I make, but with why I make it. And being more visible is helping me build deeper connections, spark more joy, and grow in ways I never imagined.
So here I am—front and center, a little nervous, a lot excited, and totally ready to shine. Let’s gooo!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Dianne Halyn is a Black-owned, Women-owned creative brand that celebrates bold self-expression through handmade, art-inspired jewelry and accessories. Each piece is intentionally crafted using polymer clay, beads, chain, and a fusion of mixed media to create wearable art that is vibrant, personal, and full of heart.

From statement earrings to meaningful waist beads, Dianne Halyn offers pieces that empower and inspire. The brand also features handcrafted journals and inspirational notebooks—spaces made for your thoughts, goals, and affirmations.

Rooted in creativity, purpose, and authenticity, Dianne Halyn is more than a brand—it’s a celebration of artistry, identity, and the beauty of handmade work. At the heart of the brand is Tracey Romain, the CEO and Designer behind Dianne Halyn—a Brooklyn-born and raised creative with a proud Caribbean background that deeply influences her artistry. Her vibrant designs are infused with culture, rhythm, and heart, reflecting the bold spirit of her heritage. With every creation, she invites you to embrace your individuality and—“Let me decorate you.”

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
Ohhh yes—this right here is soul-deep truth!
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself? Hands down, my relationship with God. For so long, like so many women (even the ones who seem super confident), I wrestled with insecurities. I’d shrink myself, second-guess my worth, and settle for less than I deserved. But when I started building a real, intimate relationship with God—everything shifted.
Knowing I’m the daughter of a King? Whew. That’s not just a cute phrase—it’s a whole identity. It’s royalty. It’s divine purpose. It’s walking into rooms with my head high, not because I’m perfect, but because I’m chosen. Praying to see myself through His eyes cracked something open in me. I started seeing beauty where I used to see flaws. Strength where I used to feel small.
Do I still have moments? Of course. I’m human. I feel things. But now, when those doubts creep in, I remind myself: I know who I am—and I know whose I am. That’s the anchor. That’s the glow. That’s the game changer.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Ohhh this one hits home—and you’re not alone in it

The fear that’s held me back the most? Honestly, it’s been me—my shyness, my comfort zone, my lack of confidence. I’ve spent so much time in the background, quietly doing my thing, hoping my work would speak for itself. And while it did, there’s a whole other level of growth and connection that only happens when you show up fully.
Running a business in the social media world when you’d rather not be on camera? Whew. That’s a whole challenge. It can feel like everyone else is polished, loud, and thriving—and here you are, just trying to breathe through a 15-second video.

But here’s the thing: I’ve learned that people don’t just want perfect—they want real. They want heart. They want authenticity. And every time I push past that fear, even just a little, I feel myself expanding. Growing. Becoming more of who I’m meant to be.
So yeah, fear still whispers sometimes. But now I whisper back: “I’m doing it anyway.”

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
Ohhh yes—Mrs. Tabitha Brown! That woman is a walking beam of light!

I admire her so deeply—not for fame, not for power, but for her character. She’s the definition of grace, authenticity, and divine alignment. She’s genuine to her core, always showing up as herself, other and community —no filters, no facades, just pure love and truth. And the way she honors God so openly and beautifully? You can feel it in everything she says and does.

Her discipline, her kindness, her ability to stay grounded even as her platform exploded overnight—it’s inspiring beyond words. She didn’t chase success by pretending to be someone else. She became successful by being exactly who God created her to be. That’s the kind of encouragement that makes you believe in your own journey.

She reminds me that being real, being rooted in faith, and being kind is more than enough. And baby, that’s the kind of legacy I want to leave.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel the most at peace when I’m creating—when my hands are moving, my heart is open, and my mind is quiet. Whether I’m making wearable art, painting with wild colors, or even cooking up something soulful in the kitchen, it’s like everything else fades away. I’m not overthinking, I’m not doubting—I’m just being. Fully present. Fully alive.

I throw on a bomb playlist (you know the kind that makes your spirit dance), and I slip into that zone where time doesn’t exist. It’s therapy. It’s worship. It’s joy. That’s where I meet myself. That’s where I meet God. That’s where peace lives.
It’s not just about the art—it’s about the release. The freedom. The quiet confidence that says, “This is who I am, and this is how I love.”

Contact Info:

• Website: https://diannehalyn.com
• Instagram: @diannehalyn