This year has been a blessing. 2024 has brought so much joy and a healthy dose of perspective on what matters most. So, in the spirit of November, I’m laying out a few of the things I’m most grateful for, both personally and in my small jewelry business.
Here’s the Kristen Baird 2024 Gratitude List!
Having Abby in the Studio
This year, I’ve been lucky to have Abby in the studio more than ever. She’s taken on more responsibilities and hours, allowing me to get projects done faster and making studio time a blast. There aren’t many people who I would trust with my designs, but Abby is a true pro, and I know she will always deliver the handmade quality my clients expect.
Keep an eye out, because you’ll be seeing a lot more of her on our Instagram!
Emily and Jeana: The Content Queens
People always ask how I can consistently post on social media and write detailed newsletters on top of crafting jewelry. The answer: I don’t! I have two amazing virtual assistants that keep things running smoothly day in and day out. These ladies truly do it all: write content, create beautiful images, manage my inbox, track inventory, and even occasionally provide therapy. (Haha!) I couldn’t do it without them.
Beautiful Commission Projects
This year, I committed to only taking on commission projects that I love and that are within my aesthetic, and this decision has truly paid off. Every commission I have done this year has felt like an opportunity to shine as an artist. I’m obsessed with the work I have created, and many of these pieces found their way into my permanent collections. I can’t believe I get to do what I love most for my job. What a profound blessing!
Building a Community that Cares
The greatest gift of running a small business has been the community I’ve built. Over the past year, I’ve come to realize how essential it is that I get to choose who I work with on all sides of my business, from clients to vendors, to gallery owners and staff. This community has held me up during some of the most difficult times, from the loss of a close family member to the challenges of Hurricane Helene.
It has become clear that the relationships I’ve built are more than financial transactions; they are a true community. I couldn’t be more grateful for all of you.
Health and Safety
Sometimes in the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be easy to forget that as long as we have our health and safety, we have everything. Aside from the occasional (okay, more than occasional) bug brought home from preschool, the boys are as healthy as can be. My home and studio were both spared from Hurricane Helene, and our community continues to pitch in to support those impacted by the storm. We’re beyond lucky.
My Parents and Drew’s Mom
Speaking of preschool bugs, we’ve had our share of them this year. Fortunately, Drew and I have the dream team behind us when it comes to childcare and family support. I’m so grateful to our parents for being there to watch the boys, helping with school pickups, and generally being the best grandparents ever to our kids.
It’s hard to run a small business while also being a mom, but having the support of our family makes it possible. I feel like I get the best of both worlds, and it’s because of them.
Drew and the Boys
Last but absolutely not least - I’m so thankful for my amazing husband and our two incredible boys. You guys are the lights of my life and the motivation behind everything I do. Through all the ups and downs, we stick together to love and support one another. We also have so much fun!
Drew, thank you for helping me build a home based on love, laughter, and joy. We have everything we could ever ask for right here.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone in the Sparkle Community! Thank you for everything you do!
