Old Soul Avenue — Local Undercover

Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:

Old Soul Avenue feels like coming full circle to me. My innovative high school art teacher started a metalsmith class in the late 80's and that set my wheels in motion. My love of art and metal took me to Overland Park, KS for a couple years to study before my 25 year detour into the world of hairstyling. I met so many influential people there and left no stone unturned by taking every opportunity to create, travel, teach, and eventually own my own salon for 12 years.

When it was time to make a change, I realized I had to get back to my dream. With an inspiring amount of support from my family and friends, I cleared out a spare room and got to work. I love spending my days plotting out my next designs and making them real. I'm excited to showcase my work on Local Undercover and am looking forward to meeting more people from this great community.

Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?

I live in an old house built in the 1920's on an Avenue in Midtown Omaha. My business name was inspired by that.

What is your signature style / item? How did it become so?

I'm passionate about the history of royal jewels and antique jewelry, so I like to design pieces that have an heirloom feel but with a casual style. My mission is to normalize wearing cocktail rings with sweatpants.

What makes your business unique to the industry?

Old Soul Avenue is evolution based. I'm constantly finding my new favorite technique or element to work into my designs.

What's been your biggest roadblock when it comes to business and how have you been able to overcome?

As a true Gen X'er, I resisted social media at first. We've since made friends and I now appreciate how it gives artists a platform to share their work.

How has your business had to adapt amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic? What are you doing to navigate the situation?

I'm lucky enough to have a studio in my house, but it was an adjustment for everyone when the entire family became home based. Time management was tricky, but we made it work and really enjoyed our extra time together.

What is your favorite part of what you do?

It's the best when someone makes a connection to one of my pieces. It's even better when I get a follow up and the customer tells me a great story about it.

**What is your must do local activity?**

Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo is incredible. From there, go straight down 13th street to Little Bohemia or the Old Market if you want to shop and eat local.

Where to find Old Soul Avenue:

Website: www.etsy.com/shop/oldsoulavenue
Facebook: www.facebook.com/oldsoulavenue
Instagram: www.instagram.com/oldsoulavenue/