Today we’d like to introduce you to Chandra Waters.
Hi Chandra, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I have always been a creative and an “outside of the box” thinker, but I did not recognize this aspect of my being until later in life; it was just who I was. I am originally from Savannah, Georgia and I am a 6th-generation Gullah descendant. Personally, I find joy in giving unique and personal gifts to my family and friends. I decided to turn my love of gift-giving into a business. I began my business by offering handmade crochet dolls–because representation matters, and who doesn’t like a doll that looks like them and/or memorializes a special milestone in their lives? I come from a long line of makers, and my cultural upbringing definitely influences the aesthetic of my products. My business has expanded to include other handmade and curated gifts for any occasion, and we are exploring entering the bridal and concierge gifting space.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I would not say that it was a rough road, but there have been many challenges along the way. As a creative, your mood can impact your creativity. There are times that the creative juices are not flowing. During the height and aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, I found it hard to create authentically. As the world is opening back up and my mood has adjusted to my new normal, I am definitely inspired and have been coming up with new offerings for my customers.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I come from a generation where a great deal of value was placed into getting a formal education, securing a good job, and working a career until retirement. For over half of my life, I have followed that path, and I have professionally worked in the insurance industry. Today, life leans more towards making your dreams your reality, living in the moment, identifying your gifts, and leveraging your gifts to support your lifestyle. Though I still work a 9-5, my 5-9 is where the magic happens. In my business, I focus on unique handmade gifts that speak to my client’s personal likes and specifications. I also take the opportunity to add cultural and ethnic elements when appropriate.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Just start! As a creative, my thoughts are often filled with a multitude of ideas; but sometimes, the task of turning that idea into something tangible is a challenge. I have found that if I just “start,” the path to making an idea come to fruition is quickly revealed. In many things in life, the hardest part is starting something new and unfamiliar. I have learned over the years that once you have the courage to take the first step, the remaining “9,999” steps are a piece of cake.
Contact Info:
- Website: haintbluegifts.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/haintbluegifts
- Other: https://linktr.ee/haintbluegifts
Image Credits
Chandra Waters
