Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Thurman.
Hi Samantha, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
After moving to Corpus Christi, and becoming a first time mom I felt the need to find myself again through a creative outlet. I have a background in the creative and performing arts so being creative with jewelry felt like it came pretty naturally. I have always enjoyed any craft I can get my hands on, and I love a good challenge- making jewelry was just what I needed. I began making earrings and small chains, watching tutorials and figuring it out on my own. I went to my first pop-up at a local small business and they invited me to participate. I was so incredibly nervous and excited, and it went so great. I loved being able to connect with my customers in person and get feedback from them on what they were looking for in jewelry.
From there, it felt natural to me. Fast forward to today- I have a small jewelry studio in the heart of the city, where I can take my youngest and work, while my oldest is at school. I do pop-ups and markets a few times each month, and I’m currently working on launching my own website – aside from Etsy. I have pieces in our Art Museum, local art studio, and small businesses throughout Corpus Christi. I’m still challenged daily with my business and I think that’s why I am so invested and love what I do.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I wouldn’t say that my business has been easy but I have learned something from every single obstacle I’ve encountered. I have continuously pushed myself to move on from difficult decisions and problems. The biggest struggle has been balancing my personal life, as a family person, with my work life. Since I take my daughter to work with me, I have to work around her schedule, naps and make sure that I am also engaging with her and not just focusing on work. Somedays I feel that I accomplish so much, and other days I feel like we would’ve been better off just taking the day off. It’s a balancing act and some days I fail, but I always try my best and I feel like that is key.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
You can always spot a Lavender + Lee piece by the attention to detail. I have always loved when characters in my favorite books and movies wear the same necklace or earrings constantly, making it their signature “look” and the one thing others consistently comment on. Now as a jewelry artist this is what I specialize in and strive for; to make your “signature” piece. Gorgeous gemstones and pearls meant to wear as your everyday trademark look. Minimalist, dainty, with a dash of whimsy.
This past year (2021) I was voted “Best Handmade Jewelry” in Corpus Christi and to say it was exciting was an understatement. I was ecstatic! I think what sets my jewelry apart from others is that I hand-make each piece. If I don’t love what I’ve made, I won’t sell it. Jewelry should invoke a feeling inside- if I don’t feel that when I finish, I know it’s not up to my standard. The bar is pretty high, and I think my customers feel the same way.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
Currently, I have an Etsy shop that I keep stocked with my classic pieces that I always make. At my markets and pop-ups I always bring a selection of classic and one of a kind pieces. So there will always be a change and rotation of what I have in stock. I have noticed that for one of a kind items people love to feel and touch the jewelry- to get that special spark and feeling.
For collaborations with other businesses, I love talking with them to figure out what kind of bespoke collection they’re looking for. Which metals, gemstones, pearls, or shapes they’re looking for. Most of these collections have come from just reaching out to me over Instagram, or emailing me. I love a good collaboration!
Contact Info:
- Email: lavenderandlee@outlook.com
- Website: www.lavenderandlee.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/lavenderandlee
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/lavenderandlee
- Other: www.etsy.com/shop/lavenderandlee
Image Credits
Kylie Justus
Mariah Moldonado
Jodi Hangebrauck
