ALYSSA BUMP
Life & Arts Editor
If you have Instagram and go to Fredonia, you have most likely seen one of your friends raving about Creations with Clare on their Instagram story.
If you haven’t, Creations with Clare is a small, one-woman business that specializes in “boho jewelry, with a hint of spirituality,” as said by the owner, Clare Normoyle.
Normoyle is a junior at Fredonia majoring in journalism with a minor in English.
Despite being a full-time student, Normoyle manages to maintain a successful small business.
Normoyle said, “I’ve always really liked being crafty and making things, especially jewelry. And for a while, I had so many people telling me to sell my stuff. But I always assumed no one wanted to buy it. And then one random December day I thought, ‘Screw it I’m gonna do it,’ and started this business.”
She started her business on Dec. 27, 2020 and made her first sale only a day later.
Unlike most small businesses that have to power through a slow start, Normoyle said, “Right from the beginning, business was booming. Every time I’d create something new, (which was more frequently when I didn’t have school) more and more people would buy which led to them posting, and then more people finding me. It’s a pretty cool cycle.”
Customers can choose from wire-wrapped rings, chain-linked beaded necklaces, earrings and more. All items are handmade by Normoyle herself.
Rather than having pre-made items that customers can choose from, Creations with Clare encourages customers to customize their items.
“I think what makes my business so unique is that I’m very into customizing every piece I have. Not only that, but I can also turn ideas people have into creations, if possible,” said Normoyle.
One of her favorite pieces right now that is fairly new is her moon man ring.
With the power of social media, her business surpassed 500 followers on Instagram, which is @creationswithclare, in only a few months.
Normoyle explained, “My trick is constant advertising, whether it’s online or by word of mouth. The more people talk about you or hear about you, the greater the chances are that they’ll check your stuff out.”
She uses both Etsy, an online marketplace and Instagram for customer purchases. However, Normoyle explained Instagram is probably the easiest route for customers to take.
“It’s easier for me to help you through your order, with customizations and whatnot.”
Payments are accepted through Venmo and Paypal @ClareNormoyle. She currently ships all over the U.S. and is working on global shipping.
Normoyle also has a blog called “Crystalized” which goes more in depth on the behind the scenes of her business.
Some of her posts show how she makes her jewelry, how she manages her time as a college student while also being a small business owner and where she gets her crystals.
I personally decided to purchase some products from Creations with Clare. I decided on getting a gold sun pendant birthstone necklace as well as some matching sun earrings.
The products so far seem to be high quality, and the packaging was super cute. The personalized message on Normoyle’s business card was a great touch.