Meet Erin Bryan
We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Bryan and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Erin, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I was born and raised in California and moved to Texas at 22. Now in my 40’s, I can clearly see how both places shaped who I am. Growing up in a middle-class home, some considered my upbringing privileged, but it was really just a stable foundation built on love and hard work. California life felt fast-paced and open-minded, but Texas has become home in a deeply rooted way.
My parents divorced when I was in my early 20’s, which left a lasting impact on how I view relationships. It made me value true friendship in a partner, and I didn’t rush into marriage or motherhood. I got married and started a family later in life, and that timing was exactly right for me. Today, my husband -who is a disabled veteran- is home full-time, and I stay home with our children as well. Our youngest is neurodivergent and on the spectrum and much of my daily life is centered around being a caregiver-not just for my children and husband, but also for our three big dogs. It’s a full house and I often wear many hats.
Despite the demands, I’ve made room to pour into myself, too. I have learned over the years that it’s very important to stay grounded and not lose who you are as a person. I recently returned to school online to study child development. I’ve been in summer classes and will begin a full semester this fall. I also reserve one day a week to reset- whether that’s crafting, reading (mainly true crime), or working on my small handmade jewelry business. What started as keychains and pens (which I still create), turned into earrings. When I commit to something, I give it 100% and all in. That passion and drive is a huge part of who I am.
My background taught me resilience, flexibility, and the importance of choosing joy- even when life is heavy. It’s those lessons that guide the way I parent, love, create, and grow.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is handmade jewelry that started as a creative outlet during one of the busiest seasons of my life. A full time mom, caregiver to my children and husband, and a full time student. On the one day a week I had to myself, I started crafting. After some encouragement to start earrings, I did. Once I did, I fell in love with the process. There’s intention and heart behind every set of earrings I make.
What sets me apart is that I create from a place of lived experience, of caring for others, of holding space for both joy and struggle, and of knowing how much beauty there is in small things. My designs are bold, fun, sometimes delicate but always meaningful. They carry the spirit of a woman balancing a lot, yet still choosing to show up creatively.
Getting to this point wasn’t easy. I didn’t have a business background, extra money to invest, or even much time. But I had passion, resilience, and a lot of late nights. I learned to research, practice, and grow through trial and error. I tested materials, techniques, and slowly built (still building) my brand, Hanging With Erin, piece by piece.
One lesson I’ve learned is that perfection isn’t the goal, connection is. Whether someone wears my earrings to feel confident, express themselves, or simply smile when they look into the mirror, that’s what fuels me. Another lesson? Just start. Even if it’s messy, even if it’s small. Your art deserves space and there will always be someone out there who appreciates it.
What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that it’s built on heart, hustle, and healing. It’s more than just earrings, it’s about reclaiming identity, creating joy, and turning everyday moments into something beautiful. Hanging With Erin isn’t just a name, it’s an invitation to be part of something real, personal, and handmade with love.
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.
If a friend came to visit for a week, I’d definitely start by showing them the heart of the city, Downtown Fort Worth, especially Sundance Square, where you can walk, shop, and people-watch with the skyline in the background. It’s the perfect introduction to the city’s charm and energy.
Then, of course, no trip to Fort Worth is complete without exploring the Stockyards. A place where you can experience the twice-daily cattle drives, live music, rodeos, and old-world cowboy culture that truly defines the city. While there, we’d grab lunch at Joe T. Garcia’s, a longtime Fort Worth tradition known for its garden patio and family-style Mexican dishes. Then we’d swing by Casa Azul Coffee for a sweet pick-me-up. I love this coffee shop, great coffee and sweets. Ideal place to meet with friends or to get some work (schoolwork) done.
Since I don’t drink, one of my favorite local spots is The Kava Bar. It’s a welcoming place to enjoy non-alcoholic beverages in a relaxed, community-centered setting with great conversation and ambiance. If they haven’t heard of kava, it’s even better because they get a free Bula!
We’d also explore Fort Worth’s Cultural District. I love museums and I know my friends would enjoy them as well. So many to choose from, we could pick a few or all. The Kimbell Art Museum, Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth, Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Sid Richardson Museum, and the National Cowgirl Museum of Hall of Fame.
We might round out the week with visits to local craft fairs, the Clearfork Farmers Market, or a walk down Magnolia Avenue for boutique shops and food. And of course, I’d make sure we take one day to breathe at home: maybe craft, watch a movie, or hang outside with the kids and dogs.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout goes to my husband and kids. As a disabled veteran, he faces his own battles, but he’s still my biggest support system. He encourages me to chase my goals-even when life gets chaotic- and he never lets me forget my worth. Also my kids-especially my youngest, who is on the autism spectrum. They have taught me patience, compassion, and the importance of celebrating every small victory. They inspire me to keep pushing forward, even when it’s hard. A small shout has to go to my mother, without her I not only wouldn’t be here, but she passed on her creativity and joy of crafting onto me. Thank you! I love you all.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578226530446
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