Conversations with Stephanie Ramirez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Ramirez.

Hi Stephanie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Thank you for having me! Never in my wildest dreams would have I imagined being featured in a magazine. I truly appreciate this opportunity! I started making clay earrings after coming back from Peace Corps, South Africa. It’s really rewarding for me to create whatever I own, so I decided to look into how to make earrings, my favorite accessory! My love for bold and bright colors and styles is reflected in my earrings but each piece I create is also as unique as the people that have inspired it. One of the reasons I started this business was because I wanted to donate a portion of the profits to help other girls and women struggling financially and are pursuing an education. As a first-generation college graduate and Latinx woman, I’ve experienced struggles and well as triumphs which is why I have made it a goal of mine to help women graduate from college so they can pursue their dreams. As of right now, I am focusing on helping women in the US, with hopes to return to my host village in South Africa to help there as well.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road and I have to admit, I can be my worst enemy. Before opening, I would spend hours trying to improve my work because I never thought it was good enough. It took many hours researching techniques, saving for tools, finding the best materials, and learning. Luckily, I have an amazing support system that grabbed me by the shoulders and said “hey, these are great and you can do it!” My friends and family are a huge reason I found the courage to begin this journey. I just want to quickly say thank you to all the wonderful people who believed and continue to believe in me.

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?
Right now, I make earrings made of polymer clay. I design, create, assemble everything on my own. There are no two earrings the same– even if they are the same style. That’s the beauty of handmade! I recently started making necklaces as well. I just love creating things that will make everyone feel even more beautiful and glamorous when they put on my jewelry. My goal for this year is to continue to grow, learn, and expand. I’m planning to continue making earrings and then add other accessories like headbands and scrunchies– a favorite project I am working on is making pet accessories to match you fur babies! I’m very excited for everyone to see what I have in the works.

How do you define success?
This is a great question! To me, success means being happy. Being happy with the little victories not just the big ones. Being happy with accepting that some accomplishments will take longer than others. Success to me is also being proud of myself and everything I have done so far.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/con.amor.by.sr/