Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Bryant.
Hi Samantha, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In January of 2020, I realized I needed some type of therapeutic activity to get my hands on to prevent me from falling into postpartum depression once my baby girl was born in March. I found polymer clay after researching different art forms and shortly began making earrings after watching a few video tutorials. My friends and family soon started to love my work and wanted to purchase from me, and that is where my small business began. A side hobby became a side hustle which eventually became a full-time job along with being a stay-at-home mom. I now sell my work at Ponce and do monthly online launches/markets. It’s been a huge blessing to be able to financially support my family while staying home with my daughter.
Alright, 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?
It’s been smooth but also having bumps in the road like everything else in life. I do think it’s been a smooth road in the aspect of me creating whatever I want to make, making my own schedule, and being my own boss. However, there are some not-so-smooth parts such as dealing with the business side of things, taking care of a toddler simultaneously, and trying to stay consistent on social media (my biggest struggle due to having a toddler).
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I mainly make polymer clay earrings but have branched out into making polymer clay car diffusers, headbands, and hair clips. I create jewelry for woman and men to feel confident in their skin, and I take pride in helping others feel beautiful in their Blush & Josie pieces. I’m proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone and doing wholesale because now my work is currently available at Citizen Supply in Ponce City Market. I think what sets me apart from others is that I strive to make connections/friendships with my customers. When I started to gain a customer base, it was so fulfilling for me to be able to understand other people’s stories and get to know them on a personal level. While making an income is important to me, making those personal connections is just as important.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I firmly believe in the saying “everything happens for a reason.” I graduated from UGA in 2019 with a child and family development degree and was determined to become a child life specialist. However, life had other plans when I shortly got pregnant after graduation and I knew that doing a practicum and internship while pregnant was not ideal for me, physically and financially. This business has brought me purpose in making others feel beautiful and aiding my mental health. I still believe that my degree helps me in regards to raising my child and connecting with my customers.
Contact Info:
- Email: Blushandjosie@gmail.com
- Website: Blushandjosie.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/blushandjosie?utm_medium=copy_link
