Life & Work with Kara Horton of Clarksville, TN

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kara Horton.

Hi Kara, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I don’t remember a time when I wasn’t creating something. It started with drawing as a child, but over the years, it expanded into different forms of art and craft. Creativity has always been part of my identity. I’ve always loved experimenting with different forms of art and craftsmanship. My mom was always making things — crafting, designing, experimenting — and being around that shaped me more than I realized at the time. Creativity wasn’t just encouraged in our home, it was lived. I started my own jewelry business as a kid and it was a huge turning point. It made me realize that creating wasn’t just something I enjoyed — it was something I needed. As I got older, I dove even deeper into creativity. I took art classes, learned how to design clothing, and improved my sewing skills. With every new skill, I felt more aligned with myself. Creating has always felt like home to me. It’s the space where I feel most grounded, most expressive, and most connected to who I really am. Throughout the years creativity stopped being something I did and became something I lived. A few years ago, I started a mask business. It wasn’t as successful as my jewelry line had been, but it was still incredibly fulfilling. It pushed me to adapt, to problem-solve, and to create under completely different circumstances. That experience reinforced something I already knew deep down, creativity isn’t just something I enjoy, it truly is who I am. Even though I’m not working full-time in the creative industry right now, I’m always creating, always learning. Recently, I’ve started designing jewelry again, this time with a deeper understanding of myself and my craft.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey toward your dreams isn’t linear, it’s layered with lessons, pivots, and detours. I’ve had my share of rough moments, but I’ve learned not to stay stuck in them. The path to your dreams isn’t always smooth. There are always new skills to learn, new ways to adapt, and unexpected life moments that can slow you down. I’ve learned not to sit in those setbacks for too long. I remind myself why I started in the first place. Every company, every creator, every dream has potholes along the way. What matters is choosing to keep going. I’ve made the decision that I won’t quit.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Currently, I’m back and fully immersed in designing and creating jewelry again. Over the years, that passion has only grown stronger. I’m constantly inspired, it feels like new ideas are always forming, almost dancing in my mind. The passion never really left — it just evolved. I’m also continuing to design clothing and explore concepts that feel deeply authentic to who I am. At this stage, my focus isn’t just on creating, it’s on creating pieces that genuinely reflect my voice.

We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Risk-taking is essential for growth — in business and in life. It’s intimidating. Even saying the word can feel uncomfortable. But I’ve learned that growth rarely lives inside comfort. I definitely wouldn’t describe myself as a natural risk-taker. In fact, it’s something I consciously work on every day. I try to push myself to step outside of what feels safe and familiar.
Starting my mask business was one of the biggest risks I’ve taken. I’ve always worked full- or part-time jobs, so stepping into entrepreneurship felt overwhelming, especially as an introvert. Putting myself out there doesn’t come naturally to me. But that leap kind of changed me. It taught me that risk truly is reward. There are so many things we wouldn’t have in this world if someone hadn’t been brave enough to try. Learning to take those risks is exactly why I’m able to share my story today.

Pricing:

• Pricing for jewelry pieces varies, but I’m more than happy to discuss it with clients.
• I am giving away the two necklaces in the last photo for free!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @rockstar_dujour
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kara-horton-bettes-1080a44
• Twitter: @Rockstar_DuJour
• Other: Pinterest: @R_DJ