Designer Spotlight: Andrea McGinnis
![Blog Post Template (29)](https://www.flourishthriveacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Blog-Post-Template-29.png)
![](https://www.flourishthriveacademy.com/wp-content/plugins/bb-plugin/img/pixel.png)
A brief story of what you do and why you do it.
I make one a kind handcrafted jewelry using semi precious gemstones and swarovski crystals. I have been in my husbands shadow for years and I really wanted to give myself an identity. I wanted something to look forward to every night, and something that made me happy.
How did you get into jewelry design?
I started by making keychains, lanyards, necklaces and bracelets for veterans, as a way to give back to them. My husband and I were both in the service and I wanted to go that route. It became a little tedious making the same things so I ventured into other techniques and I was hooked. Although I still do make the beaded keychains, my passion is in my jewelry business.
![Andrea McGinnis Collection](https://www.flourishthriveacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/IMG_2400.jpg)
What makes your collection unique?
Every piece is one of a kind, I even have pieces that I put together from leftover gemstones strands I never thought I'd be able to use. Most of my pieces have a touch of swarovski to make it casual or dressy.
What are your inspirations?
Everyday people are my inspirations, I look at pieces that they are wearing and it inspires me to create something just as beautiful but at an affordable price. I'm a mother of three so I try to make pieces that busy moms can wear that go with everyday styles.
How are you making a difference in your life?
I'm finding a motivation and something to look forward to. I'm giving myself identity and being able to stay at home and raise my kids at the same time.
![Andrea McGinnis Collection](https://www.flourishthriveacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/IMG_2032.jpg)
What's something unusual about you that makes you “you”?
I have a terrible memory, I have to write everything down or I will forget it right away! I have to write lists at jewelry parties, keep lists for my inventory etc. I worry about getting older…yikes!
What's the biggest struggle in running your jewelry business like a business? OR What is your biggest success in running your business like a business?
The hardest part of running a business is selling to friends and family. I hate asking them for money, it just feels weird. My biggest success has been jewelry parties, they're fun, a great way to network, practically free marketing and I always take home $500 or more in sales.
About Andrea
I am 33 years old and have three young boys and work from home and love it. I've been making jewelry for a few years now and am always looking for inspiration.
Website: gendreajewelry.wordpress.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/GenDreaJewelry
![](https://www.flourishthriveacademy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Copy-of-Laying-the-Foundation_Blog-Posts-1-1.png)