Women Who Make Beautiful Things - Part II

For Chris Marshall, starting her handmade jewelry company, Hippy Do Da, happened as a bit of an accident.

“A close friend of mine wanted to participate in the 2012 Rosewood Crawfish Festival by selling handmade jewelry, so she went out and purchased a ton of beads and supplies but quickly lost interest,” says Chris. “So I decided to give it a whirl and I haven't looked back since!”

The name Hippy Do Da reflects the fun and boho-style jewelry she offers.

“I knew I wanted to play on the word ‘hippie’ and I wanted a name that was fun, lighthearted, and easy to remember,” says Chris. “I also tried to represent the type of jewelry I make which, I feel, has a bohemian, hippie vibe.”

Her “druzy” items have become her signature pieces.

I really love working with druzy geodes ("druzy" is the name given to tiny crystal clusters which can form inside many types of specimens) and offer them in my signature herringbone wire wrap which can be worn as elegant earrings or as a simple pendant necklace.

Chris loves how her job inspires her, and she still gets a little thrill every time she sees a stranger wearing a piece of her jewelry.

“The most rewarding part of my job is that I am constantly inspired to learn, grow and become better at my craft. I look forward to each day because I get to do something I'm truly passionate about,” says Chris. “Another part of my job that brings me joy is to see a complete stranger wearing one of my pieces, or to receive kind words from a happy customer. I am truly grateful when others appreciate my work. It's extremely fulfilling.”

Chris believes the secrets to success are passion, hard work, and a even few failures.

“I would say to keep at whatever it is that you're passionate about. Hard work and dedication will pay off,” Chris says. “Don't be afraid of failing or not getting something right the first time around. Failure is a part of success, and passion always prevails.”

Find her amazing jewelry online at Etsy or visit her booth on Saturdays from 9 am - 1 pm at Soda City (1450 Main Street, Columbia.)