Joy Kruse: Balancing Growth, Grit, & the Love of Making Jewelry

Have you ever wondered if you can truly grow your business when you love to make every piece with your own two hands?

It was a question that came up in my own growing business many years ago and it’s a question that comes up often in this community — how do you scale without losing the soul of your work? How do you expand, maybe even hire help, but still keep that direct connection to what you’re creating?

For many of us, the thought of letting go of the bench, even a little, feels impossible. The making is the heartbeat.

Today’s guest, Joy Kruse of Wild Prairie Silver, has walked that line beautifully. From her early days making jewelry on the side while working full-time as a nurse, to now running a thriving studio with a small team, Joy has found a way to grow without sacrificing what she loves most — the making itself.

Joy’s journey into metalsmithing began over two decades ago with a love of stones and a curiosity for form. What started as a creative outlet evolved into a full-fledged business known for its bold, organic designs and soulful craftsmanship.

In our conversation, Joy shares how she made the leap from nursing to full-time artist, what it really looks like to run a sustainable handmade studio, and why she still insists on keeping her hands in every part of the process. We talk about failure as a teacher, staying true to your creative voice, and the quiet discipline that keeps the work — and the love for it — alive.

It’s an inspiring, grounded conversation about the beauty and grit behind a life built by hand.

Follow along...

Joy on Instagram: @wildprairiesilver

Joy’s Website: ⁠wildprairiesilver.com

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