Today we’d like to introduce you to Bonny Tunnell.
Hi Bonny, 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 several years as a high school teacher, I left the classroom to help my husband start his company. For the next ten years, we worked side by side building his business and found great success together.
I’ve been creating stained glass art for about five years—selling pieces here and there whenever inspiration struck or I wanted to share something especially beautiful. As I sought to deepen my skills and knowledge, an unexpected opportunity appeared. I hadn’t planned to start my own stained glass business, but God kept placing people in my path who guided me in exactly that direction. Thanks to the kindness, generosity, and encouragement of so many, Splendid Things Stained Glass came to life—and I am forever grateful for their support.
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?
The journey has been a wonderfully direct path, guided by family and friends who have supported my dream in every possible way. My husband has been my greatest encourager, and without his wisdom and steady support, this company simply wouldn’t exist. From offering business advice to crafting many of the fixtures in my shop, his experience, guidance, and handyman skills have been truly invaluable.
Like any new small business, we’ve had to balance expenses against income, but we’re finding our footing—and our name is beginning to make its way into the stained glass and artistic community.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m an eclectic artist at heart. I knit, crochet, tat (the delicate art of lacemaking with a shuttle or needle), embroider, cross-stitch, quilt, and even make Ukrainian Easter eggs—and the list goes on. But nothing has captured my imagination quite like stained glass. Perhaps it’s the allure of a fading art form, or maybe it’s the hint of danger that comes with working in glass—but whatever the reason, I’m completely captivated by the process of transforming simple sheets of glass into something truly beautiful.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
I’ve learned to open myself to the help that’s offered. So many people have been a light along my path and a blessing beyond measure. I try to listen to every bit of advice, and I almost always find something useful, encouraging, or inspiring to carry forward.
Other local stained glass shop owners have reached out with support and kind words. I can’t say I’m surprised—but I am deeply grateful. Stained glass artists, like most creative souls, are generous people who care deeply about keeping their art form alive. In them, I’ve found not just colleagues, but a true community of friends.
I have dedicated my shop to God and thank Him for His blessings every way. I hope to be able to use my blessings to help others in my community and beyond.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://splendidthings.net
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/splendidthingsstainedglass
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076505331761
Image Credits
All pictures taken by me except for my professional headshot. I have rights to my headshot to use as I see fit.
