Life and Work with Heather Crenshaw

Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Crenshaw.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Heather. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I began Love N’ Lava Designs during the summer of 2017. That was when I decided that my hobby needed to become a business. I am a mom to an amazing seven-year-old wild, fun and energetic boy! I am also a Third Grade Teacher, so I love to spend my summers and breaks creating! I love making beautiful, functional jewelry. I started taking classes and teaching myself how to make jewelry around the time my son was born. I am passionate about the health benefits of essential oils and gemstones. I have found a way to combine the two by creating essential oil diffuser jewelry. My boyfriend, David, is an integral part of my business as well. He helps me so much “behind the scenes.” We are super excited to watch our business grow so fast! We are so lucky to have such amazing, supportive customers!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It was very challenging to create a business with no prior experience. Every step of the way was trial and error. I definitely am still learning how to properly run a business. I have been very lucky to meet an incredibly supportive group of other small business owners. They have helped me so much along my journey. My best piece of advice to other new business owners is to not get discouraged and keep pushing forward. Don’t worry if every little detail is not in place from the start. It is more important to get your product out there for the world to see and then work through all the little details. Don’t ever be afraid to ask for help!

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Love N’ Lava Designs – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I specialize in creating essential oil diffuser jewelry, made with high-quality natural gemstones. I feel that the quality of my bracelets sets me apart from others. I am very detail-oriented and thoroughly inspect every bead that goes onto my bracelets, to ensure they meet my high standard of quality. We offer a wide range of gemstones and love creating custom pieces for our customers.

There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
I have found that the small businesses community is extremely supportive and encouraging. I have created many connections with fellow makers at Craft/Vendor Fairs. Also, through Instagram and Facebook. I love that everyone focuses on the community over competition.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lovenlavadesigns.com
• Phone: 623-703-3415
• Email: lovenlavadesigns@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovenlavadesigns
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovenlavadesigns

Image Credit:
April Michelle Photos

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