Today we’d like to introduce you to Wade Miller
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I was in the service industry until the pandemic hit in March 2020. The city of Austin ordered certain restaurants to close temporarily, and I watched the service industry crumble. With my medical history, I knew going back into the service industry wasn’t a safe option for me. I spent weeks meditating, searching for what I could offer the world. I have always been fascinated by the storied healing and metaphysical properties of different crystals and gemstones. After much reflection, I decided to create small-batch, beaded jewelry using pearls and precious metals.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has been full of sharp turns, booby traps, and dark clouds. However, several beautiful rest stops along the way motivated me to continue my journey. I had no prior experience making jewelry or running a company. I spent more than a year watching tutorials and reading articles on all things jewelry and business. Days before the soft launch of my company, I received news that my mom had passed away. I was devastated, and I spiraled into an unhealthy mental state. I moved my launch date back multiple times to give myself time to grieve. After several months, I knew my mom would tell me to dry my tears and get to work. So that’s what I did. And when I finally launched, I was overwhelmed by the positive response. A client review saying my jewelry made them feel beautiful reminded me why I decided to begin making jewelry: to showcase natural elements, highlight natural beauty, and make people look and feel beautiful.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Wade Miller Jewelry was born from my lifelong desire to design and create. I specialize in high-quality, small-batch pearl jewelry, aiming to showcase the natural beauty of Mother Earth and the many gifts she bestows upon us. I take special care to source high-quality materials and products, as well as suppliers who take concrete steps to be more inclusive, diverse, equitable, and sustainable. I buy American-made goods and take special joy in supporting businesses in Austin and the state of Texas. What sets me apart is me. My life experiences all play a part in my story and my vision. As someone who is black and gay, I navigate the world through a unique lens, and I incorporate my experiences as a member of two marginalized groups into my work. For example, when most people think of pearls, they imagine the classic white, perfectly round pearls. My jewelry showcases pearls with unique shapes and hues, showing that natural beauty comes in many forms. The challenges I’ve faced have made me stronger; I appreciate that each stunning pearl was born as an irritant nagging an oyster.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
One of the things I love most about living in ATX is the ease with which I can get delicious tacos and the incredible food scene in general. Even though I consider myself a homebody, I appreciate how there’s always something happening in the city or something to do. It’s reassuring to know that I have plenty of options for activities when/if I feel like leaving the house.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://JWadeMiller.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wademillerjewelry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JWadeMillerdesigns
- Other: Wade@JWadeMiller.com
