I was born in Boston, Massachusetts.  I grew up in both Boston & Nashville. I have traveled extensively throughout Europe, Japan, & Lebanon.  I have lived and studied in Oxford, England. However, I call Nashville home.

• How did you get started in the jewelry business?

1. I got started by accident.  I went to a local Astrological Consultant, Dorsey Malina who recognized that I had an ?amazing artistic ability.?  She asked me what I was doing that was creative, and at the time, I basically said ?nothing really.?  I had been working in the business world and was set on moving up the career ladder.  Dorsey basically told me that I wouldn?t be happy unless I worked for myself and did something ?creative.?  I had no idea that the ?creative? part would be making and selling jewelry.  Dorsey Malina can be reached at 615-650-5408 or via email at Mercurysmsnger@aol.com.  She's an amazing woman and truly gifted at what she does.

• Do you have any formal training in an art/design background?

A.  No.  I have a business degree from Babson College in Wellesley, MA and a graduate degree from Aston University in Birmingham, England.  All my formal training was in business and business related items.  However, I feel very fortunate to be able to combine my artistic ability and my business background.

• When did you start your business? How long have you been in business?

A.  I started my business in September 2002.  I was still working full-time.  I would make jewelry in the evening, go to work during the day, and then sell my jewelry at shows on the weekends.  I would even take vacation days in order to do mid-week type shows.  I was putting in about 80 hours a week juggling both jobs.  Finally, after a couple of years of hard work, lots of positive reinforcement, and blind faith, I was able to take my business full time in July 2004.  Since that time, I have been going strong.  I participated in 26 shows from Sept- December 2004 and I managed to get a website up and running!  I have great customers, great friends, and family who are a big part of my success!

• Where do you find your inspiration?

 From Everything I see.  I go to museums, I read, I travel.  I subscribe to a number of fashion magazines that I thumb through regularly.  I am particularly drawn to color and texture.  I can even find inspiration in home decorating magazines and florist shops!  You would be amazed at the number of color combinations that I see on a daily basis!

•   What is your business philosophy?

 I believe there is enough  business out there for everyone!  I believe in giving back to the community.  I do several fundraisers throughout the year and I donate a portion of my profits to women?s programs such as domestic abuse and breast cancer.

• Where can I buy jewelry from Cindy David Designs?

 First and foremost, you can buy my jewelry online at www.cindydavid.com.  I work out of my home and I regularly participate in art/craft shows which you can check out under my Events page on my site. I also participate in a number of home shows and office parties where I would come to you and set up my jewelry.  I am also a regular at Salon J (located at 4^th & Deaderick on the ground floor of the AmSouth Bldg).