Re-Introducing Myself | A Peek into My Jewelry Journey

It feels like ages since I've had the chance to sit down and catch up with you all. Today, I'm taking a moment to share a little piece of my journey – from the early days of Christina Kober Designs to where I am now.

Let's rewind to the beginning, shall we? Picture it: 2008, about a year into my journey as a jewelry designer. I was juggling my passion for crafting alongside my responsibilities at my dad's jeweler supply store. One particular memory stands out amidst the business of those days – my collaboration with the incredible Regina Imbsweiler.

Regina, a mentor and source of inspiration, offered me an amazing opportunity to showcase my work at a popular art festival in Atlanta. With excitement, I set up her booth with my fortune cookie necklaces, little treasures crafted with love and whimsy. As the day unfolded, I watched in awe as my creations caught the eye of patrons, each necklace finding its new home. It was a moment of validation, of realizing the power of belief and generosity in propelling dreams forward.

From that pivotal moment came a deep-seated belief in the power of messages, of words woven into wearable art. My designs had the potential to inspire courage, resilience, and self-discovery. One such creation, the inspiracelet, emerged during a period of transition in my life. Moving to Nashville with my husband, I found solace in the simple yet profound message on my wrist: "be brave." This mantra guided me through the uncertainty, urging me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new beginnings.

As my business blossomed, I learned invaluable lessons along the way. One piece of advice that resonated deeply with me came from my father, who instilled in me the importance of treating customers with care and empathy. Listening, understanding, and empathizing became the cornerstones of my business ethos, guiding me through the highs and lows of being a business owner.

Of course, no journey would be complete without its share of balancing acts. As a mother of two, I struggle to achieve work-life balance. Some days, the boundaries blur, and work spills into family time. Yet, amidst the chaos, I take comfort in Nora Roberts' wise advice: "Know that some of the balls you have in the air are made of plastic and some are made of glass." In other words, prioritize the essentials, release the rest, and above all, grant yourself the grace to navigate the complexities of modern womanhood.

And now, a glimpse into the lighter facets of my world – puns and wine, two guilty pleasures that add a sprinkle of joy to my days. From clever wordplay to glasses of Sauvignon Blanc from the New Zealand's Marlborough region or a sparkling Pinot Noir, these simple pleasures infuse my creative process with whimsy and my downtime with delight.

I extend my deepest gratitude to each of you for being a part of my story. Whether you've been with me since the beginning or stumbled upon my designs just now, know that you are cherished. Here's to new beginnings, old memories, and the beautiful tapestry of life we weave together.

With love,