Today we’d like to introduce you to Olivia Talley.
Hi Olivia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
One of my earliest memories is of my mom teaching my sisters and me how to string beaded bracelets. When we would go to the craft stores, I was innately drawn to the bead section. Holding them in my tiny four-year-old hands felt more precious than money. It wasn’t until the summer of 2022 that I reconnected with the magic of beading.
Since then, I’ve combined my hobby of rock collecting with my rekindled love of jewelry-making. The days that I can relax outside and put my expansive bead/rock collection to use are the ones I live for. I use jewelry making not simply as a creative pastime or to satiate my entrepreneurial appetite, but also as a means to navigate my depression.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to get here hasn’t been smooth, but I am grateful for it. Without the bumps and the bruises, I don’t think I would be who I am today. For as long as I can remember, I’ve struggled with depression.
Personal challenges and my experience with PTSD have made it difficult and confusing for me to express myself and pursue what makes me feel good. Rediscovering my childhood passion for jewelry making has opened me up to unexpected healing and mental relief.
Slowly but certainly the road is smoothing out, and each day I feel excitement for what’s next.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Living on Medicine Lake has been a boon for me because I love finding cool rocks to use in my jewelry. I make a lot of necklaces, wire-wrapped stones, waist beads, and occasionally walking sticks.
I’m most proud of my constant evolution as a jewelry artist. If I want to learn a certain jewelry-making skill, I can figure out how to put my twist on it. I set myself apart by going beyond what’s trending to make something truly unique and meaningful.
What do you think about happiness?
Learning about what makes me happy is something I do every day. The perfect day for me would be road-tripping to a new lake and finding some rocks, making jewelry, and just being outside. Ideally, there would be burritos involved!
Contact Info:
- Website: Beadhealer.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/beadhealer
- Youtube: https://www.YouTube.com/@TheBeadHealer
