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

Hi Bridgette, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Balance is key to really being able to “sit in the pocket” where you are grounded and aligned in life and in business. It’s also pivotal in making good decisions that lead to lasting results. When I am out of balance, which typically for me is too invested in the busyness of my day to day work, I miss out on the joy, creativity and fun that should flow from doing what I love to do. It doesn’t allow my inner guidance to flow, nor does it keep me integrally connected and supported by the Universe.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I was led into Whispering Stones by my love for the stones, and for the simple reason that I couldn’t find a stone bracelet that fit. Determined to remedy that and craft just the bracelet I wanted, I soon was selling them to friends, through a shop on Etsy and next to clients at festivals- along with necklaces, earrings and more. Stones from around the world soon snuck into my booth, mainly as a way to entertain the children and men that often tagged along with my typical buyers. And after a bucket list trip to the Tucson Gem Show, I was hooked. Stones have since grown to over 65% of my business, and we sell to people all over the world! Pottery Barn found me through Etsy, where my shop has now served thousands of customers over 4 years. After popping up in their stores for 3 years, I opened my own pop-up this past fall at The Avenue East Cobb. “Playing store” was also on my bucket list, and opening Solstice, which features meaningful gifts of artisan pottery, eco-friendly gifts and of course, my jewelry and stones, has been a fabulous experience. So much so, that we are still there– way past the three months we had planned. Being in the competitive retail arena is challenging but can also be very rewarding- especially when you are selling unique, handmade products that provide support, inspiration and joy. I’ve loved getting to know a whole slew of local female artisan entrepreneurs whose products we offer, as well as some really amazing intuitive card readers, mediums, astrologers and healers who have delighted our customers with their insight-filled events.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
Well, since I am north of the perimeter, I’d definitely be taking them to the main street areas of Alpharetta and Roswell. Dropping in for a bite at Salt Factory in Roswell or Main Street Kitchen in Aplharetta, with dessert at the Pie Hole. We would definitely need to go walking down by the Mill…. For sports fans, we would head to a Braves Game at SunTrust Park or an Atlanta United game at the Benz.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family has been a pivotal part of my success– they have supported me unconditionally- through time, love and money so I could follow my creative, entrepreneurial instincts and also cheered as I checked things off my bucket list.

Website: www.whisperingstonesetsy.etsy.com and www.solstice.love
Instagram: whisperingstonesjewelry and solstice.love.atl
Facebook: whisperingstonesjewelry and solstice.love.atl