Meet Crystal Dandrea | Crystal Kim Designs

We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Dandrea and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Crystal, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am constantly inspired by people’s experiences. When I first started, I was more focused on creating gifts that celebrated relationships with others and the moments that made life special. I knew people who were graduating, getting married, and starting families—so most of my products revolved around those emotions. However, when 2020 happened, everything changed. I was forced to take a step back and process everything that was going on. Through this, I started to write and found comfort in the theme of embracing the chaos. I started working with symbols like the lotus flower, the pearl, and the butterfly. To me, these were beautiful illustrations of overcoming a dark and uncertain time. This ultimately led to me writing about my own experiences, which is something I am slowly incorporating in my work.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Everyone has their own experience and my collection is a reflection of my own personal journey. I think that’s what makes my collection a little bit different. Since my collection is closely tied to my thoughts and feelings, it can be challenging sharing it with others. There is a certain sense of vulnerability and uncertainty that is really scary. Honestly, I’m still trying to get over that hurdle. However, I’m starting to realize its important to get yourself out there. Allow yourself to be vulnerable. Give yourself permission to go at your own pace and give yourself space for trial and error. That’s how you learn and grow, be kind to yourself. Remember to strive for progress, not perfection. You don’t have to have everything figured out to start, just take one step forward, one day at a time. Those are the biggest lessons I have learned thus far. I hope my story helps someone out there that might be battling with anxiety or insecurity and I hope my products make you smile and feel a little more seen.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh gosh, I don’t even know where to start! I guess we got to go to the beach, right? For day 1, I would probably take them to Coronado. The scenery is beautiful and it’ll be perfect for photos. After doing a little shopping and viewing the city, we’d grab a bite at Miguel’s Cocina. For day 2, I would like to take them to Liberty Station. It’s such a lovely place to walk around and visit the little shops. We would grab a bite at the Liberty Public Market, which houses various food and craft vendors. This area also houses many art studios and classes, so it would be nice to take an art class together. For day 3, I would like to take them to Belmont Park. We can go to the amusement park, play a little mini golf, grab some ice cream, and watch the sunset at the beach. For day 4, I would like to take them to Balboa Park. We can visit some museums, have a picnic, and take some photos. For day 5, it would be nice to tour Seaport Village or Little Italy. I would have to let them decide haha. For day 6, I would like to take them to Convoy. After exploring the town and doing some shopping, we’d grab a bite to eat at Manna BBQ and have Somi Somi for dessert. For day 7, I would like to take them to my absolute favorite spot, Otay Lakes County Park. The lake is so peaceful! It’s a beautiful place to relax, have a picnic, and go on a walk/hike.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank my parents for helping me get started and introducing the idea of owning my own business. Thank you, mom and dad! I also want to thank my husband for supporting me through all the ups and downs. He has always supported my artistic efforts and encourages me to keep pursuing my dreams. Thank you schmukums! I also want to use this opportunity to give a special shoutout to all my friends, customers, and supporters. Each purchase, like, comment, follow, or share is extremely meaningful to me. You beautiful people make it possible to keep doing what I’m doing and I’m so thankful ♥

Instagram: @crystalkimdesigns