Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandria Daniels.
Hi Alexandria, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
This all began during a very challenging life transition for me. I had recently ended a long-term relationship and was a new mom of twin babies, who at the time, were under age one. I had been wanting to explore a creative outlet for a while and now needed a stress-relieving activity more than ever. I started with wire wrap jewelry but quickly realized it wasn’t for me but was still interested in jewelry making. Thanks to social media I stumbled across polymer clay jewelry and I instantly fell in love with the medium.
After putting my girls to bed at night I’d spend hours researching and watching YouTube videos to teach myself all the techniques necessary to create earrings. For accountability and fun, I decided to share my journey with polymer clay on Instagram.
I had no intention of turning it into a business, but as I began posting my work and progress on my IG, I kept getting DMs and comments asking if I sold them. After saying no to those questions over and over, it clicked in my mind and I had to ask myself…should I sell them? I asked family and friends what they thought of my pieces and everyone thought I should go for it, so I did!
For context/timeline, I began exploring jewelry making at the end of 2020. I made my Instagram March of 2021 and then officially launched my website August 2021.
My first launch sold out and that was the push I needed to keep going. I couldn’t believe it! During this time, I was also working remotely as a health coach. In spring of 2022, my company (like many tech companies during this time) did a mass layoff. The remainder of us were given the option to take a voluntary severance and so I did.
It was the best, yet scariest decision I ever made but it allowed me to finally go full-time with my business in April 2022 and I haven’t looked back.
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?
Definitely not a smooth road. I’ve had to learn many many skillsets very quickly. While I’m a creative person naturally, learning the more technical business side of everything is a lot to process. I didn’t initially realize how much work it’d take on the backside (marketing, website, finances, and other administrative tasks). Juggling creating your own product by hand and all other business aspects (plus being a mom and other life responsibilities) as only one person is A LOT to adjust to. I’m constantly learning and evolving.
It also pushed me outside my comfort zone in a major way. Showing my artwork can feel vulnerable, you never know what people may or may not like. It has also forced me to communicate and socialize more which is also challenging because I tend to be a bit more introverted.
Another challenge is the uncertainty of it all. Relying on yourself fully to provide income and stability is a much different feeling than working for someone else. I have learned so much about discipline and having faith.
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 specialize in artisan polymer clay jewelry (primarily earrings). I tend to go after a bohemian vibe. I like my work to look free-flowing and unique. I enjoy celestial, ethereal, hippie-type designs.
I’d say I’m known for my moon earrings and unique marbling/patterns. I also use resin in my work which adds more dimension to polymer clay and is a staple in my signature look. I think that is what sets me apart, I aim to make pieces you don’t see anywhere else. Pieces that are truly from the heart and feel authentic to me.
I’m most proud of my consistency and dedication to my art and business even during some of the hardest and most painful moments of my life.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
This is a tough one, there have been so many people who have supported and lifted me up during this journey. I would say my family and friends most of all. Each and every one of them has encouraged me in their own way. From purchasing to modeling, to promoting my business on social media, to babysitting my girls when I have events – everyone has played an instrumental role in my success thus far and I cannot express how grateful I am. They know who they are and I love them so much!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bohohazeclay.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bohohazeclay/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BohoHazeClay
