Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelsey Vassallo.
Hi Kelsey, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been creative for as long as I can remember. My mom used to find me late at night creating and crafting long after everyone else had gone to bed. I loved art classes throughout high school and even took several years of art courses in college, never imagining that creativity would one day turn into a business.
I started The Palm and Clay Co. in 2019 when scrolling instagram during COVID. At this time I was working full-time as an Occupational Therapy Assistant. What began with hand-painted clay earrings quickly grew as I realized I could turn my love of color and design into wearable artwork. Over time, the business expanded beyond jewelry into original artwork, art prints, stickers, greeting cards, and paper goods.
Today, The Palm and Clay Co. has become my full-time focus while I stay home with my daughter. Building a creative business while navigating motherhood has been a dream come true.
My artwork is known for its colorful, fun and whimsical style. Much of my inspiration comes from my hometown of Charleston, South Carolina, blended with the coastal influences of my life in Florida. My goal is to just bring joy and happiness through color.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Having a business while working full time was definitely hard. I spent lots of late nights and weekends growing my dream. There were times it felt more like a hobby or labor of love in the early days. As of more recently, it’s been tough to juggle motherhood while running a small business. It brings a whole other level of hurdles, but my daughter is definitely what also keeps me pushing forward. I’m grateful for a very supportive family and husband. I couldn’t do it without their help.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I create colorful artwork, art prints and clay jewelry. I feel like I would describe my artwork as whimsical and happy. It has a Charleston feel with a Florida spin on it. Currently I am most proud of a sign collection I have been working on. Based on the Neptune Beach sign I did for an event a few years ago, recently I have been completing fun signs based on the local beaches and coastal towns. It’s expended into stickers, towels and greeting cards. And hoping for many more things in the future. I think people just love local items!
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Just never giving up on my dream. I feel like God has created everyone uniquely different and it’s so important to just lean into that. I also just keep thinking, when it’s all said and done, I want my daughter to see that I did what I loved and was able to have her by my side while doing it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thepalmandclayco.com
- Instagram: @thepalmandclayco
- Other: https://thepalmandclayco.faire.com
