Meet Celeste Guillen | Founder of Purple Bear Jewelry

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

Hi Celeste, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
What makes me happy is being able to make people smile with my jewelry and bring them back to the little things. I feel like my jewelry bring a nostalgic feel when people see what I have to offer. In a world were we are so “in the moment”, hardly anyone takes a second to appreciate the simple things, so to see the reaction of customers who stop at my booth and smile is amazing. Im doing what i love to do while everyone else is able to find happiness in what i create. Its honestly the best feeling. Do what you love and love what you do. Im doing what i love and loving what i do. For me its not just a hobby i do on the weekends to get extra cash. Although getting paid for what i make is a bonus, i don t do it for the money. One piece of wisdom that my wonderful fiancé has given me is “money come’s and goes, you can always make money, you can’t create time, so do what you love to do”. life is too short to not do what makes you happy, and for me its creating items that are unique and non-traditional to make people smile.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets me apart is Im a traditionally, non-traditional crafter. I love making items that look more than just store bought jewelry. Most of my items can be worn by any age. I love making pieces that show creativity and daintiness while still being versatile. Im most proud of my resin gummie bear studs that adults and children alike gravitate to. Just one of the many pieces i love creating other than gummie bears are my chip bead bracelets that are both stylish and daintily. The endless possibilities of what i can create is just so overwhelming and exciting. Purple Bear Jewelry was made for the purpose of letting me show who i am as a person and crafter.I am blessed to have the opportunity to make and sell my art. From the time i could hold a crayon i was always showered with praises of artistic abilities. Growing up crafting has been a huge outlet on how i express myself and in the future i hope to share it with those around me in my community. My life long goal is to create a safe space for children to be able to express themselves through art the way i was able to express myself as well, but in the mean time everyday is a step towards that goal. Some of the challenges i have faced so far is learning to believe in my artistic ability and go for it. Although it took a while to gain confidence enough to put myself out there i am glad to have made that leap of faith and am proud to do what makes me happy. and to those wishing to take a venture for your future, please do. I would not have founded Purple Bear Jewelry if it wasn’t for the encouragement and support of my supporters.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Some places that I’ve enjoyed taking friends and family to eat is Buffalo Run. The atmosphere is so friendly and open. The food is good as well! I’d suggest the boudain balls for those who love a good spice! Attractions I enjoy while some friends are in town are Space cadets in the woodlands area. I myself am an avid card game player and can never resist hanging out with friends there for a good card fight. Some chill out areas that are amazing is the arboretum at mercer Park on Aldine Westfield. This park is truly a secret gem in the middle of nowhere. The atmosphere is crisp with nature. The turtle pond in the back of the park is so peaceful. This beautiful park gives plenty of opportunities for selfish enthusiasts. I recommend this park 100% to those who love the outdoors. It presents hiking trails, pavilions for picnics and just a breath away from the hustle and bustle of small town life. Other places I enjoy bringing people to are the occasional outdoor markets at the kroger on rayford rd in spring on Sundays. The diversity of small business owners is something to marvel at. All in all I recommend all these places! I hope you come to these places and experience them for yourself!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to take a moment to appreciate my amazing and loving fiancé, Nicholas Brian Jolley, who has encouraged and supported my growth as a person and fiancée. My mama, Guadalupe Figueroa Diosdado, and tia (Chole), Ma Soledad Figueroa Diosdado are two of the most amazing women in my life i am blessed with having the honor to call mom and aunt. To my coworkers at Twin Liquors at store 14,Diana T, Harold W, Robert M, Danny S and Mr. Harold. I love and appreciate you all so much. Thank you for your support. Without the love and support of my little village, i would not have the confidence and courage to show my creations or do local markets. I am truly blessed to have every single one of you all in my life and supporting what makes me happy. I appreciate you all

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