Meet Anna Bannister

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Bannister.

Hi Anna, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been creative for as long as I can remember. I grew up in the 70’s when there was a big emphasis on handcrafts, My parents fostered an environment of creativity and working with our hands. It allowed us the freedom to not be afraid to try different mediums or ideas. Over the years, I had tried many small things as hobbies to see if I could make a little side money.

Fast forward to a corporate career, marriage, small kids and the economy changing and my husband and I decided to hone our skills and make them into a full time job. Little did we know that right after we made that decision, we’d be faced with a cancer diagnosis. Norman was diagnosed with Advanced-Grade Prostrate Cancer in 2015. After an intense surgery and recovery (he’s now cancer-free), we were more determined than ever to go after our goals.

My earring business was a natural progression. It was one of those nagging ideas I couldn’t shake. The one that you know you better pursue or you wouldn’t be satisfied. We had purchased a Laser Machine for our Sign Making Business and I soon realized I could take designs and make unique Wood Earrings. From there, we’ve been adding elements, like handmade Clay to our Wood designs. It’s been incredibly satisfying to take an idea or concept and turn it into something beautiful.

I’ve never thought of myself as a Fashion or Jewelry influencer, but I do know what I like and I love listening to my customers tell me how they feel in our Earrings and all the compliments they receive. That definitely is a reward.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There seems to be a lot of glamour with being an Entrepreneur. I wouldn’t change it for the world, but it’s not for the faint of heart. You have to be willing to make mistakes, learn from disappointments and keep going. The mental game far exceeds your skills.

Many times with a 9-5, you can leave your job in the office. Not so for the Entrepreneur. We work 8-12 hours a day. Sometimes more, sometimes less depending on the Season. I’ve had to work at creating boundaries with myself. I can’t always go to lunch with friends or take off for an afternoon. I’ve had to learn to say No in ways, I didn’t realize before.

People will also ask how we maintain a Work/Life Balance. But I don’t think there is such a thing as Balance. It’s always fluid and always changing.

Our kids also see us working hard. It’s turned them into little entrepreneurs at times, too. Not only that, but they don’t ever really ask for us for money. Instead, they’ll ask us what they can do to EARN some extra money. I love that they’re seeing the value of putting in the work.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Anna Bannister with ReNue is a brand that specializes in handmade Wood and Wood/Clay Earrings and Jewelry. Every single piece is unique.

I love when people tell me all the compliments they get from wearing our Earrings. Or when people recognize a piece of jewelry and say, that must be Anna Bannister’s.

But I think what I”m most proud of is how our Jewelry makes people feel. I know. I know. It’s just a pair of earrings, right? But it’s not. I often say, “There’s nothing like a good Lipstick and a great pair of Earrings”. There’s so much today that can make people feel overwhelmed, but sometimes it’s the small things that can brighten your day or make you feel good about yourself. I definitely feel like our Earrings bring a little bit of Joy.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Find a good Business Coach and a Community.

I remember the first time I found a coach and realized there were other people out there like me. It made all the difference in the world. I realized I wasn’t alone and I had people that would help me get started, answer my questions and encourage me along the way. Your friends and family won’t get you. They won’t push you the way you need to be pushed. Being an Entrepreneur shouldn’t be a solo act. You don’t know what you don’t know.

Pricing:

• $15-$20

Contact Info:

• Email: anna@renuehomestudio.com
• Website: www.annabannister.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/anna_bannister_with_renue
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/annabannisterwithrenue
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@annabannisterwithrenue?

Image Credits
Anna Bannister
ReNue