Finding a Creative Voice
For jewelry designer Susan Mayer, creativity arrived unexpectedly. With a degree in economics and a career in advertising and marketing, she never imagined she would become a jewelry designer. But while raising her children, she discovered a creative outlet that quickly became a passion.
A friend invited Susan to help make jewelry, and from the moment she picked up the tools, she knew she had found something special.
Inspired by History
What continues to inspire her most is vintage jewelry. Estate sales, flea markets, and antique shops offer more than beautiful pieces—they offer stories. Susan is fascinated by imagining who once wore a piece, how it was gifted, and what memories it may hold. “I love that every piece has had another life,” she says.
Beyond their history, Susan appreciates the craftsmanship found in vintage jewelry. Many older pieces were beautifully made and cannot simply be replaced with something purchased today. By incorporating these treasures into her designs, she helps preserve both their beauty and their stories.
Building a Business Through Community
Susan’s business began with handmade necklaces featuring skeleton keys and vintage French brass tags. Encouraged by positive feedback from friends and family, she hosted an open house just a few months after she started creating jewelry. The response was overwhelming, leading to opportunities with local boutiques and growing recognition throughout the Kansas City area.
She believes one of the most important lessons in business is finding the right audience. Not every piece is for every person, and success comes from connecting with people who appreciate your work and your vision.
Values That Guide Her Work
Three principles guide Susan’s life and business: do what you say you’re going to do, take care of your family and community, and be a good person. Those values are reflected in her commitment to quality and in the relationships she builds with her customers.
Creating Joy Through Jewelry
Above all, Susan hopes her jewelry brings joy. Many of the materials she uses are more than 100 years old, and she loves knowing that something with such rich history continues to make people smile.
For Susan, jewelry is more than an accessory—it’s a way to preserve the past while creating new memories for the future.