We had the good fortune of connecting with Courtney Fischer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Courtney, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
As a creative person, I attempted a handful of jobs with a 9-5 approach and I was miserable. I’ve always loved making things and thrive off a non conventional schedule. Once I graduated college I moved to Chicago and realized there were people who wanted to support my work and actually pay for it. This was a million years ago before Etsy and the small craft businesses took the world by storm. I began participating in neighborhood markets and my confidence grew as a result. My inventory and skills grew and I started consigning with local shops, built a website, and travelled for a few craft shows. I quit by day job on my 30th birthday and haven’t looked back, 13 years ago!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Courtney Fischer Jewelry is a one woman business from start to finish. I aim to create versatile pieces of art that can be worn daily as a form of self expression. I’m most proud to be a working artist in the incredible art and craft community in Michigan. Over the years, my family and I have grown with this community. We support each other and our achievements. When challenges present themselves such as self doubt, comparison, creative blocks, etc we are there to lean on each other. I worked full and part time jobs for 8 years before taking the plunge to pursue my craft full time. I’ve learned to always stay true to myself artistically and in building strong professional relationships. I’m most excited about continuing to teach workshops and connect with people face to face. In our fast paced world, slowing down and being creative with a group of people without distraction is incredibly rewarding. I’d like people to know that my work is made with care and thought and I’m eternally grateful for the support I have received. Also all my enamel jewelry is reversible!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout is to my coworkers at The American Academy of Art in Chicago. I would never have pursued a profession as an artist without their encouragement. This group of women inspired me to create and pursue my dreams twenty years ago and I will always be grateful for their support!

Website: www.courtneyfischer.com

Instagram: courtneyfischerjewelry

Facebook: www.facebook.com/courtneyfischerdesigns

Other: www.cefische.etsy.com

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.