We met Mandy Byers of Tycayria Jewels at the Cave Spring, Ga Pig Out. We loved her jewelry so much that we asked her to drop by our website. Here is the interview we had with her as well as some pictures of her beautiful creations. Thank you Mandy! :)
Candie and Michelle: Tell us about yourself and your business.
Mandy Byers: I started my business about 11 years ago after I had lost my job. A friend wore a hematite bracelet and I loved the way it looked. So stingy as I am, I went out and bought the material to make it, instead of paying for a bracelet....lol. Well, the rest is history. I just love the way the hematite looks and feels and with all the different beads out there, I can make endless designs.
Candie and Michelle: We are so glad you started your business. We love all you have to offer. How did you come up with the name “Tycayria Jewels”?
Mandy Byers: My son was writing a story (something like Lord of the Rings). In his story there was a town named Tycayria. I loved that name and that is where the name come from.
Candie and Michelle: How sweet. :) Have you always liked making jewelry and been naturally talented and creative?
Mandy Byers: No, was never a jewelry person at all. Never wore any till I came in contact with the hematite. Like I said, just fell in love with the way it felt and the looks. I think though that I have always been an artsy or creative person. I always like to make things, rather than to spend money on buying. I used to paint a lot. Also crochet and knitted jackets and sold them. The crocheting is also part of my business now. Making purses out of crochet Soda-tabs.
Candie and Michelle: You are very talented. How long have you been making jewelry?
Mandy Byers: I have been making jewelry for 11 years now.
Candie and Michelle: What is the most difficult part about making jewelry?
Mandy Byers: Most difficult is probably making the disciples crosses. You have to bend 4 nails just perfectly together and wrap wire around them to form a perfect cross. Many blisters have come and gone from making crosses.lol
Candie and Michelle: You make it look effortless. They are beautiful. What is your favorite piece of jewelry that you ever made?
Mandy Byers: All my pieces are my favorite. They are all like my little 'babies' that I send out in the world, to make other people happy. There is not a feeling like seeing the enjoyment on someone's face, when they put one of my necklaces on and say they love it. I have many customers that come back year after year building up their collection. Some of them have become great friends over the years. (see facebook - Terri del Cano Williams)
Candie and Michelle: :) How do our readers get in touch with you if they are interested in buying your jewelry?
Mandy Byers: The best way to contact me is through my email tycayria@yahoo.com
Thank you so much Mandy for taking the time to sit down with us. We look forward to having you back again. :)
-Candie & Michelle
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