Meet Susan Demus: Jewelry Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Susan Demus and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Susan, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The success of my brand falls solely the quality of the material that I use to create my jewelry. I make a conscience effort to purchase quality gemstones, as well as stones that have value to my customers. What I mean by this, is that I give clients some history of where the gemstone I use originates from, or if it has any healing properties. My clients keep coming back because it’s not just about designing a unique piece, but something that has meaning, that they can identify with. It’s important that I chose quality stones even if I have to pay a little more, my client knows they are getting quality that has a meaning behind it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I currently work in Workforce Development. I prepare college students to enter the workforce, through training and development, student advising and preparation. I spend a lot time giving presentations not only to students but also to industry partners in Higher Education. Education has always been important to me, because no one can take away what you’ve learn. I believe that I’m a life long learner. In my professional and personal life. By the Grace of God I got here through hard work and determination to never give up. Jewelry Design is relaxing to me and I can spend hours in my proverbial design lab. I take classes to build upon my craft, to learn new techniques in design, or to even adding new product. With any thing you have to take time to learn and to make yourself better. This is what sets you apart from someone who just just makes jewelry. You have to Learn your craft, and you have to nurture it. Although this process has been challenging at times in finding my niche, and building my social media audience…. It’s still a work in progress. However this journey has been worth it. What do I want the world to know? I guess I would say “The Best is Yet to Come” QueenBee’D Designs is evolving and will only get better and I know my Territory will only get larger, because this not just a hobby, but it’s a passion that I love!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When I first started out making jewlery, I joined a group called “Black Girls Bead” it’s on Facebook. It’s a group of African American women who also craft and create. I learned so much from the ladies in this group. The best string to use, vendors, how to series. I practically learned how how to make necklaces via this group. It’s what I needed at the time when I new to the jewelry making scene. Also FSJ Beading offers design classes and the owner Ms. Natalie, regularly shares her knowledge of the business. Even to this day, if there is something I need that I can’t locate, this group continues to be a lifesaver. I am forever grateful for these ladies.