One of the Babes: Sunlit Fire Jewelry

Today, we feature Victoria Rodriguez, the maker behind Sunlit Fire Jewelry. This babe uses rocks and stones to create her pieces, and she's been running her own Etsy store for a few years now. We're happy to say she'll be vending at our July meet.

Get to know this boss:

Q: What inspired you to start Sunlit Fire Jewelry? Was it natural? Did you have any role models?

A: I come from a family full of crafters and seamstresses. My mom, being a woman that can basically do anything, raised my sister and I to be creative. She has always been so crafty. I first took up sewing and crocheting, learning from my mom, grandma and great aunt. This amazing creativity and art passed to me!

Sunlit Fire started off as a hobby about four years ago. I have had many hobbies in the past, but this one stuck, and I fell in love with designing and creating my handcrafted jewelry. Now, for the past three years, I have been able to share my designs and creations with the world!

Q: Do you have any tidbits of advice for people with passion projects?

A: Work hard and never give up! Let your creative energy flow into your projects, and you won't be disappointed in the end product.

Q: How do you stay inspired?

A: I get inspired by so much! Movies, art, people but my main inspiration comes from the 12 beautiful acres my boyfriend and I live on. I love soaking up all of the wonderful things of nature.

Q: What have been your favorite moments of creativity?

A: My favorite moments of creativity is when I pull out a bunch of random stock—lay it all out side by side, and let what I'm feeling just flow through my materials. I have ended up with some of my favorite designs by doing this.

Q: What have been the most challenging moments in your artistry thus far?

A: Sometimes I am challenged with juggling time. I work a full-time job and have my jewelry business. Often, my regular work day drains me, and I'm not able to put in enough time toward my business as I want, but I'm very passionate and headstrong, so with my crazy schedule I still find the time to get things done!

Q: When you're discouraged, what do you run to or away from?

A: I am hardly discouraged. If someone tells me I can't, I'm the type of person to show them wrong. I have a positive, head-strong attitude about my business and am always thinking and looking for ways to enhance it. I do have my lazy days, though, where I need to reboot on my creativity and inspiration. My boyfriend and sister are my rock. They keep me sane and encouraged always.

Favorite band: One of my favorite artists is ZZ Ward! Her music/voice is so amazing!

Favorite book: "You are a Badass" by Jen Sincero. I recommend that everyone should read this!

Local Austin Gem: Bouldin Creek Cafe. I love the ambiance there—plus they have fantastic coffee!

Social Media handles: Sunlit Fire on Instagram and Facebook