Today we’d like to introduce you to Dulce Chavez.
Hi Dulce, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born in the small town of Piedras Negras, Coahuila, Mexico. When I was 9 years old, my parents made the brave decision to immigrate to Houston, Texas, in search of better opportunities for our family. Being an immigrant was definitely a challenge, but it taught me the importance of resilience and perseverance.
After graduating from high school, I thought college was the next step. However, after a couple of years, I realized that it wasn’t the right path for me at that moment. I hadn’t yet discovered my true passion, and I was also dealing with the complexities of my immigrant identity and rediscovering my faith… So, I decided to take a break and explore different jobs in various fields, such as hospitality, direct care, and administration, hoping to find that spark of inspiration.
During this time, I met and married my husband, who had been a close friend before things got serious. His support and love played a significant role in helping me rediscover my faith and gain the confidence to pursue my passion.
We had a beautiful, blended family, consisting of my stepson and the two of us, for five years until we welcomed a child of our own. Our journey to parenthood was not easy, we faced challenging fertility journey and were blessed with our son.
In 2020, during the pandemic and while working from home, I discovered clay jewelry as a creative outlet and hobby. It became a way for me to express my creativity and unleash my artistic side. I’ve been in business for four years now, with a few bumps along the way, but overall, it has been a rewarding journey.
So, that’s a glimpse into my life as an immigrant, a journey of self-discovery, and the joys and challenges of starting a family. I believe that every experience has shaped me into the person I am today, and I’m excited to see where the future takes me.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been an easy journey, but man, I’ve loved every minute of it! So, in 2021, I was working for a local pool remodel company called Z&Z Pools. I loved my job, but with the birth of my son and my side hustle Black Stone Designs I had a lot on my plate. I did not expect for Black Stone Designs to take off so fast, it went from a hobby to a full-blown business real quick. I realized quickly that I was not being the best version of myself as an employee, a business owner, or a mom. I made a tough call and quit my job to focus on my business and my son. But guess what? The support started pouring in! The owner of Z&Z sponsored me an amazing website, my friends at JMG Photography hooked me up with some killer content, and my incredible friends and family started buying my art. Being a small business owner hasn’t always been smooth sailing either. I’ve had to overcome failures, disappointments, and frustrations not feeling apt to be successful. Everyday I set myself small accomplishable goals that keep me on track. Because of that I have the freedom to be there for my son and that’s priceless.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Black Stone Designs?
So, Black Stone Designs is my small business that specializes in hand-crafted polymer clay earrings. Through this creative outlet, I have gained a deep sense of confidence and pride in my myself. Selling your art is no joke, you know? Putting yourself out there and trying to make a living from your creations takes courage. But I’ve built up this amazing community around Black Stone Designs. Mostly made up of my friends right now, we’ve had a few organic joiners too. It is truly an achievement to witness art bringing people together.
What sets Black Stone Designs apart from other clay businesses is the commitment to creating with a higher purpose. I see creativity as this incredible privilege that we share with God. I mean, out of all the ways He could have shown Himself to us, He chose to be known as a Creator first. This understanding deeply influences my approach to crafting each earring. So, when I’m crafting each earring, I do it with that in mind. I pray over my work, hoping that it not only adds a little style to someone’s outfit, but also spreads the love of God to them. It is a profound and humbling experience to be able to share this message through my art.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories revolves around spending time with my friends. Growing up we lived in a housing complex exclusively for employees of my father’s workplace, the place was like a dream come true. The complex had an enclosed area, complete with a pool, a playground, and basketball courts. And the best part? Each house had direct access to this incredible space through their back doors!
I can recall those evenings when we would gather at the playground, letting our imaginations run wild. It was a time of pure joy and endless fun. I’ve always been inclined to lean into community, these memories were the foundation of that and it’s why I hold em all dearly.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blackstonedesigns20.com
- Instagram: @blackstonedesigns20
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackstonedesigns20?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
JMG photography
Eric Atticus Photography
Sara & Sons Photogpraphy
