Vendor Interview- Courtney Rian Designs
Tell our readers a little bit about yourself and your work.
Ever since I was a little girl, almost every visit to my grandparents’ house involved them showcasing every stone, raw material, and finished piece of jewelry my grandpa had created. Being a depression era kid, my grandpa had to be very creative in the types of materials he used to make jewelry. His creativity and passion sparked my interest in making jewelry and using my hands to create items that women can wear on an everyday basis. Much like my grandpa, I’m interested in all kinds of materials, so I use everything from semi-precious stones to crystals, natural brass to sterling silver, and everything in between!
What are some sources of inspiration for your work?
You guessed it…my grandpa is the greatest inspiration for my work, but I draw inspiration from many things – such as the community I work with at Meylah, to my natural surroundings, magazines, gem shows, and more. I draw illustrations in a notebook of items I’ve visualized creating in the future for those times when I need a bit of inspiration!
What was the best thing you did with your summer?
This was a summer of weddings for me…7 to be exact…so it was filled with happy friends, a lot of dancing, and a TON Of jewelry for brides and bridesmaids! Seeing friends walk down the aisle with jewelry designs I’ve made is such an honor for me…it gives me the chills!
Are you showcasing anything new at the winter UCU show?
As I mentioned up top, I love many types of materials…so I thought it would be fun to offer a $5 deal selling wire wrapped button rings!
What are you most excited about for UCU?
I’m really thrilled to be among such a talented group of vendors for the show…I would have to say that I’m most excited to watch the doors swing open and see so many excited attendees (with swag bags in hand) that are so excited to see the amazing creations we’ve all been working so hard to showcase.
Check out more of Courtney's work here and at the show!
