Assunta French

My journey as a jewellery designer began at my mum’s kitchen table, surrounded by beads, findings and probably far too many half-finished ideas! I was completely self-taught and started by making bracelets and earrings simply because I loved it. There was no grand business plan, just a hobby, a curious mind and the joy of creating something beautiful with my own hands.What began as kitchen-table experimenting gradually grew into something much deeper for myself. I continued developing my skills, exploring new materials and finding my own eclectic style. Today, I create demi-fine jewellery and have expanded into wax carving, which allows me to sculpt original designs by hand before they are transformed into metal. It’s a magical process, although slightly less glamorous when I’m covered in wax shavings!Alongside my creative journey, I experienced what I would describe as a gradual spiritual awakening. This led me to train as a Reiki Master and sound healer, and these practices now flow naturally into my jewellery. I believe jewellery can be so much more than an accessory: it can hold memories, intentions, stories and a little bit of magic. My pieces are Reiki-charged and sound-cleansed, bringing together craftsmanship, self-expression and intention.Before entering the worlds of jewellery and holistic healing, I trained and worked as a beauty therapist. My career took me travelling around the world, meeting people from all walks of life and saying yes to some incredible experiences. That chapter taught me so much about connection, confidence and the importance of making people feel comfortable, all qualities that now shape the way I teach.I love teaching because there is nothing better than watching someone arrive convinced that they’re “not creative” and then seeing their face light up when they finish a piece they genuinely love. Jewellery-making is playful, calming and incredibly satisfying, and everyone brings their own personality to the process.My workshops are warm, relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of encouragement and absolutely no pressure to be perfect. They are a chance to switch off, play with colour and materials, learn practical and easy jewellery-making skills and create something completely personal to take home.What started with a few beads at my mum’s kitchen table has grown into a creative and holistic business that brings together so many parts of who I am. I’m still learning, experimenting and occasionally disappearing beneath a mountain of beads, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!