Today we’d like to introduce you to Shani Zreik.
Hi Shani, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Hello! My name is Shani Zreik (pronounced Shay-nee Zrake) and I am a jewelry making instructor and portrait photographer. I live in North Texas with my husband and two sons. I worked in publishing for many years before becoming a stay-at-home Mom, which I wouldn’t trade for anything in the world. Jewelry-making became a fun hobby for me during this time, and once I started, I never stopped. When my sons became older, I felt the pull to begin working part-time, but I had no idea what that would look like. And, if I’m being honest, I was intimidated to return to the workplace after being away for so many years. In one of those moments in life that seem insignificant but turn out to be life-changing, a mom who worked at my son’s school suggested I apply for a job there, too. It was this job that made me realize how much I love helping kids. When my husband and my friends suggested I start teaching jewelry-designing classes for kids, something clicked. I presented the idea to the school principal, and she offered me a spot teaching my jewelry-making class in the after-school program. I quickly realized that I wanted to grow this wonderful opportunity into a business. I began teaching jewelry-designing classes at elementary schools throughout the county, followed by summer camps at my in-home jewelry studio, girls’ birthday parties that travel to you, and ladies’ wine and design nights. And that’s how I started Shani Dreams of Jewelry, the first of my two small businesses.
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?
It was challenging to learn everything about a business from the ground up and build it as I went. Wow, did I make a lot of mistakes! Over the years, I’ve learned how to build a website, where and how to buy glass beads and jewelry components in bulk, and how to teach jewelry designs for all ages with techniques that create beautiful jewelry with an almost professional look. I’m so thankful for all of the wonderful families over the years who took a chance on me and signed up their kids for my jewelry-designing classes!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
Pairing jewelry design with my portrait photography is a unique business venture to be sure! From time to time, I think about choosing just one to focus on because maybe that makes more sense, but I always come back to the same conclusion: I don’t want to give up either one. Often, families reach out to me for portrait photography because I’ve been their daughters’ jewelry teacher, and they’ve had that time to work with me and get to know me. It feels like a natural progression now, and these portrait sessions have become so special to me. I do think it’s the jewelry design aspect of my business that stands out. I try to offer a one-of-a-kind experience by showing students how to use a jewelry design board, giving them access to a huge variety of gorgeous glass beads and metal charms, and teaching them how to design necklaces, bracelets, rings, and beaded hoop earrings based on designs I’ve created over the years. It’s pretty amazing to see excited students design, make, and wear their jewelry pieces all in the span of one class. For me, there’s something significant about being able to make your own “wearable art” that you can now keep forever.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
It thrills me to say that I’ve been supported along the way by family, friends, and women in the business world who believed in me and gave me a chance to share my creativity with others. I’m grateful to all of the wonderful families and students I’ve had the chance to meet and work with over the years.
Contact Info:
- Website: shanidreams.art
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shanidreamsofphotography/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/shanidreamsofjewelry/
Image Credits
Kimberlin Dawn Photography
