Jess Smith shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Jess, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I have a found a lot of joy in a manga/anime called Dandadan! I’ve enjoyed anime for quite a while and this was the first time that I felt inspired to catch up to the manga. The romance element is just so delightful and it’s sandwiched between action and conflict that doesn’t feel drawn out. It is something that may be inspiring my next line of pendants.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Jess Smith and I am the person behind Energized Crystals, a crystal shop that focuses on jewelry and decor. The main star of my shop is my wire wraps that are incredibly unique and intricate. Each piece is its own meditation and is usually a free flow design. I also have a lot of fun with my pieces including designs that emulate butterflies, bats, flowers, a steaming cup of coffee, and more!
My decor is jewelry trays that are crystal and herbal blends, tapping into the energy of my unique combinations. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing but they hold useful energetic purposes.
Something that I have found unique about my shop is the sheer enthusiasm I have about crystals, crystal energy, and artistry. I have my main creations but I explore many different avenues, because I just love creating!
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was always an artist. From writing my own books in kindergarten, dancing in Folklorico groups, theater, and covering my life in sketches. It wasn’t until high school that I realized I wasn’t expected to be an artist by society. I had very supportive parents in that regard because they never made me feel like being an artist wasn’t a sound choice. Trying to find an avenue of art that was a profitable and stable career was a bit difficult. I had toured an Art Institute and wanted to do every program. At the time I was focused on fashion and got a sneak peek at accessories, which is where I found myself. Even with a degree, it was a struggle after school to feel like I had chosen an ‘acceptable’ path. It has its challenges, but I’ve never looked back.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely. When you’re someone who cares so much about what you do, failure, or even just perceived failure can wear you down.
I think this past year has been the hardest for most small businesses and that’s terrifying. I have been a full time artist for years and made the decision to seek out full time work for the stability. But even in my wildest dreams, I’m still creating. I’m still making art.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
The idea of being different behind closed doors is confusing to me. I’m usually pretty honest to a fault. Though I struggle with social media, I try to show the ups and downs.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If immortality were real, what would you build?
When I think about what I would want in immortality I know that I would have such a stunning crystal collection. As well as information. I would want to build a library, because there’s just so much to learn in the world.
That plus a wonderful forge making the coolest things.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Energizedcrystals.shop
