Open House features local jewelry designer
An Open House featuring the work of Sharron Warren is set for Thursday, April 14, 7-9 pm at 484 Mountain Road, Halifax, hosted by friends of the artist. Warren works with silver necklaces, glass and beads– crafting them into unique, versatile, whimsical & affordable custom creations. She will also demonstrate how she can transform forgotten jewelry from the back of the drawer into something new to wear and enjoy.
Born and raised in Norfolk, Warren is a relative newcomer to South Boston– husband Tom Warren’s work as a process engineer for ABB brought the couple to the area in 2008. A nurse by training, Sharron Warren served many years in Hampton Roads doctors’ offices and later worked for Merck & Co. in Pennsylvania– responsible for the company’s compliance with federal regulations for new drugs.
With a longtime love for handmade lampwork glass beads, Warren started making jewelry in 2002 and found a variety of bead makers to supply her with “just the right beads,” she says. “Making jewelry is very relaxing and fills my soul with joy. I love what I do and I am happiest at my craft desk.”
Warren began showing her creations at craft shows. ”The joy of seeing people admire my work and buy pieces was so rewarding. It allowed me to meet so many new people and explain the art of lampworking and what goes into each piece.”
With her love of– and location near– the beach, Warren named her little business “Beach Babe’s Jewelry.” She set up a website and focused on making jewelry reminiscent of the beach. The wonder of the internet allowed people as far away as Germany to find Warren and own her pieces.
Her craft also has its challenges, however. “The challenges I’ve met since moving to South Boston are marketing– smaller town, smaller market. In a smaller community and with the economy the way it is now, my pricing has been lowered to allow for everyone to own something.” Still, Warren has done several local shows successfully and always enjoys meeting people.
Her outgoing nature and community spirit have made her many friends in Halifax County. Warren volunteers for South Boston “Destination Downtown” events, Third Thursdays, and music events. She did all the data entry for the Duck Race adoptions and says, “It’s been rewarding and it’s nice to be appreciated.”
Warren also belongs to a mastermind group- a small group to discuss goals and share ideas. “It’s a wonderful little group who has encouraged me to continue with my passions, no matter what they are. This group is my rock.”
Friends from this group– Chris Butterworth, Jenny Hochstein and Ami Hudson– will host Thursday’s Open House for Warren. “We wanted to introduce Sharron and her work to the larger community,” says Butterworth, whose Mountain Road home– the rectory of St. John’s Episcopal Church– is the site of the event. “All are welcome.”
“Sharron is a fun person with a lot of flair. She is inventive, practical and caring– always willing to share her know-how in many areas with people she meets,” says co-host Ami Hudson.
Co-host Jenny Hochstein says, “Sharron’s jewelry is unique. I love being able to hang one or more on a chain for a different look with every outfit.” Warren has also transformed some of Hochstein’s existing jewelry into new, updated pieces.
“When I sell a piece, I love the look in their eyes,” says Warren, “as they have bought a one of a kind creation.”
All are welcome to the Open House featuring Sharron Warren on Thursday, April 14 from 7-9 pm at 484 Mountain Road. Refreshments will be served. For directions, contact Chris Butterworth at 476-6473. For more information, visit Warren’s website at www.beachbabesjewelry.blogspot.com or e-mail Warren at slbeach703@hotmail.com.