At Georgia State University I earned a Bachelor of Fine Art with a minor in jewelry design and metalsmithing. After graduation I did not have a jewelry studio set up and my career in art consulting took off quickly.  After several years working in art I felt the longing to make jewelry again. 

In 2004 I entered a design from college, "Vertebrae Necklace", in the 2005 Saul Bell International Competition for jewelry makers and designers sponsored by Rio Grande. I told myself if my work placed in the competition then I will use the award funds to purchase metalsmithing equipment and build a studio. My design was awarded 2nd place in the silver category with advertisements placed in several trade magazines and online http://www.saulbellaward.com/2005-winners. I turned a spare bedroom into a jewelers studio and opened Hj Designs, Inspired Fine Jewelry.

Working full time during the day art consulting and part time on weekends in the studio, my work evolved into more elaborate soldered silver, gold, mokume gane and upcycled plexiglas jewelry. Selling at trade shows and art festivals, I enjoyed all aspects of entrepreneurship; brand manager, marketing department, sales person, event planner, accountant, designer and fabricator.  

Over time I taught myself Photoshop techniques to create my own marketing materials, staying after hours at my day job making print ready files. I also learned basic Sketchup techniques to create trade show booth layouts. 

A wonderful friend begin a photography business and together we produced photoshoots for look books. The photographer scouted locations, I managed selecting the models, clothing, hair, makeup. We collaborated on the layout and content for printing of the look books. 

Hj Designs grew to a stock list of 27 stores and online accounts with annual trade shows in Baltimore, Philadelphia, Las Vegas and various local festivals. I was honored to have my works selected and published in Lark Books 500 Necklaces and Artistar Jewelry, Italy publications. 

As my day career grew and evolved I made the decision that being a part of something greater than myself was more important. In 2016 I folded the company Hj Designs.

2020 brought many surprises for all and I am making jewelry and textile craft again in Santa Barbara, CA.