Meet Joni Williamson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Joni Williamson.

Hi Joni, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
For as long as I can remember, my mother and I have always made our own jewelry. Both of my parents are deaf so making jewelry (and other fun accessories) has always been a creative outlet and form of expression for her. Seeing this, I grew to love it as a form of expression for myself as well and with all the compliments I received on my personalized pieces, I thought I could maybe make it into something bigger than fun.

The first pieces I ever released were my ASL (American Sign Language) I love you earrings. Fluent in ASL from a very young age, I feel it is something that should be taught and encouraged to make this world more accessible for those who are deaf or hearing impaired. I gifted them to friends and family to reveal my intentions of starting Jonez Jewelz. Those pieces meant so much to me because I was paying homage to the woman that has inspired me to do this and so much more in my life and the support I received was so overwhelming. Since then, I have expanded and experimented with new items so I can have something to offer everyone that suits their individuality and tastes. As well as bring awareness and honor other things that are near and dear to my heart. I pride myself on making all of my pieces with love and care.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I am still getting established and working out the kinks in my systems. But overall, I would say that it is has been relatively smooth. Everything has its challenges but l have an amazing support system that helps me work through the hiccups and stressors that come with starting a new business.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Jonez Jewelz started as a passion project that has grown into so much more.

Throughout the week, I work in an optometrist office assisting doctors and patients. I have always been a people person and customer service is a specialty of mine. This is a skill that has helped immensely in starting a consumer-focused small business. I am known in all facets of my life as being a jovial, friendly person and that is something that makes me extremely proud.

I am also a huge advocate for the deaf community. Creatively, a close friend and I started an Instagram page called CODA Love which stands for Children of Deaf Adults to bring awareness to the need for American Sign Language and accessibility for the hearing impaired. We have also used this avenue as a call for social change as well.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Lean on the people that want to help you. Sometimes, the people you expect to help/support will go MIA and sometimes, the people you least expect will have the most genuine intentions.

When it comes to networking, talk to everyone. There are so many times that I have struck up a conversation with someone that has turned into opportunity and there are truly some great people in KC that want to help other creatives elevate.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: jonezjewelz.com
• Instagram: jonezjewelz