Today we’d like to introduce you to Deborah Jackson.
Hi Deborah, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In 2019 I started creating waistbeads for myself. It was an artistic escape for me during a complicated time in my life. I had just finished nursing school, unfortunately, I did not pass my state boards right away which left me extremely depressed most days. I began researching the history of waistbeads. During this time, a lot of their traditional symbolism resonated with me which inspired me to share pieces of my journey and my knowledge of them with other women like myself. Though I have since passed my state boards; nursing is not nearly as fulfilling as aiding women in their journey of self-love with body adornment. Along this time, I have built my website, grown my Instagram platform, started participating in pop-up shops, & now working towards my next steps in expanding my brand.
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?
The biggest struggles for me personally have been the emotional struggles; my family has lost an immense number of friends and relatives in the last 3 years. Grief is one of the hardest things to carry; grieving several people at one time is heart-wrenching. All of these losses have been a reminder of how valuable time is, so I’ll choose to be grateful for that.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I sell authentic African waistbeads imported from West Africa. This offers unique styles, designs, & patterns to select from.
I specialize in creating custom beaded body jewelry for ALL SIZES. Grounded x Earth was created to be a size-inclusive brand, allowing all women the opportunity to adorn their sacred waist. I offer waistbeads tie on or with a screw clasp & you have the preference of your beads being stretchy.
What sets Grounded x Earth apart from other waistbead brands is that we are size inclusive, customization is limitless, & you are given an experience, even when your order is shipped.
I provide detailed information of the origin of waistbeads, a color guide, & a tie-on tutorial to help you with setting your intentions and selecting your waistbeads.
How do you define success?
I define success as having the freedom and means to live on your own terms.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.groundedxearth.com
- Instagram: Gxe_waistbeads
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groundedxearthwaistbeads
- Other: Linktr.ee/groundedxearth
