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

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have created a Luxury Jewelry brand called “Baruk Blessing”. This is a brand created to make you feel luxurious in any outfit, any setting and in any mood. A philosophy my mother taught me was “look good, feel good.” On days when she wasn’t feeling her best she would go to her vanity and either try on some wigs. Do her hair, put on some make-up, or style up her clothes with some jewelry. I found that it is not exactly the items that give us strength but the intentional action behind them. Creating this brand was not easy, o had to figure out how to appeal to the everyday person as well as the people with an eye for high end items. I mostly use copper for my jewelry and that is because I enjoy the strength of the material but its ability to bend to create the shape I need or sometimes the shape it needs. Copper has slowly become a more prominent material used for marketing. I was a huge fan of the steam punk Era and I am a fan of the enlightened Era that we are currently in. I want the world to know that even though this material seems less valuable or more tarnishable just like any other piece of jewelry, it can be cleaned and restored. My husband asked me to make our wedding bands and I keep them clean and looking good.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The Atlanta belt line has so much to offer and so many diverse food eateries, shops and architecture to see. I would say if you haven’t been there Definitely go on and check it out.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Cynthia Boss. My mother played a very Integral part in my development as an artist. She encouraged me without pushing me too hard and to this day I still thank her for those moments. She is no longer with us due to cancer but her lessons, love, and guidance stay with me. I now pass down those things to my students and someday to my own children.

Website: Baruk_blessing.mailchimpsites.com

Instagram: @BARUK_BLESSING

Facebook: Baruk

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta 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.