Today we’d like to introduce you to Debbie Sakach.
Debbie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Rust and Pearls began in Houston, TX in 2013. To be honest, I kind of fell into making jewelry. I never planned to build a career as an artist. However, from the moment I started designing I realized that I had found something really special.
I’ve always had a love of vintage and things from the past but this really took it a step further for me. When I began designing, I was kind of all over the place. It took me many years to figure out what I was trying to say with my pieces. When I relocated to Austin in 2017, I was very scared that I would not be able to continue my work without the support system I had built in Houston. I am so proud to say that not only has Rust and Pearls survived it is thriving beyond what I had every hoped for. I’m still learning each and every day. That is what I love most about having my own business. I am excited to see what the next year will bring for this brand I am so proud.
Great, 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?
It has truly been a rollercoaster. So many highs and even more lows. Building a business has taught me so many things about myself. It constantly pushes me out of my comfort zone. If I could give any advice about starting and growing a business it would be very simple. JUST KEEP GOING. There will be hard times and many days when you want to give up but if you feel that this what you are meant to do – then just keep going. Some of my greatest moments have happened right after some of my most challenging times. Believe in yourself.
What should we know about Rust and Pearls? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I specialize in creating one of a kind and small collection pieces using a mix of vintage, new, and natural materials. I like to say that I “Take old paragraphs and add new sentences.” My designs celebrate styles and materials that are at least 50-100 years old. I’m very proud of the fact that buy using vintage elements I keep things out of and landfills and support other small businesses just like mine. Working in one of a kind and small-batch collections really helps my customers to stand out. They know they have something special just for them.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
I am constantly reading. I learn so much about history and the pieces that I work with through reading. My current favorite is Agatha Christie. I have actually based an entire collection around one of her most popular characters. I also constantly listening to a podcast from a company called Flourish and Thrive. They specialize in helping people like myself build their jewelry business and they are an endless source of information.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rustandpearls.com
- Email: debbie@rustandpearls.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/rustandpearls
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/rustandpearlsjewelry
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/
Image Credit:
Photos by Kelly Phillips
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