I have always loved making handmade art.  Even as a young girl, I remember helping my mother make crafts and snipping quilt squares for her.  Over the years, as I explored projects of my own, I discovered that I don’t like to follow patterns.  I much prefer creating something original. 

My educational background is in Hospitality Management and I worked in the hotel industry for three years before moving to retail.  I was fortunate to work in stores that showcased high quality handmade crafts, which only fed my desire to create. 

Although I explored many paths, I always came back to jewelry.  I have been making jewelry for family and friends for more than ten years.  Over the years as more people asked my friends and family where they bought the jewelry I gave them, I began to think about starting my own business.  When our family moved to Washington, DC I studied silversmithing at the Art League School in Alexandria, VA.   

I recently returned to my hometown of Asheville with my husband and our young daughter and decided to make my living doing what I love.  I built a studio in my home and started Baker Place Originals.  My jewelry can be seen at Art & Craft Shows across the Southeast, home parties, and area retail boutiques. 

I am always exploring new combinations of color and style and I have developed a sense of individuality in my work.  Many of my current designs are created with freshwater pearls, gemstones, and Swarovski crystals combined with sterling silver components.  

My jewelry begins with research into materials, styles, and design.  I aim to create jewelry that fits with your everyday wardrobe, but with flair.  I also enjoy designing jewelry that complements formal attire for life’s memorable events, including custom multi-strand gemstone and pearl necklaces for weddings and proms.  I am currently incorporating the silversmithing techniques I learned at the Art League School into my own line of silver jewelry.  When I am not designing jewelry, you will find me gardening, sewing for my daughter, and spending time with my family.