Meet Dawn Carlson | Jewelry Artist/practicing gratitude

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

Hi Dawn, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
I think how I have chosen to handle difficulties in my life and how I treat others has had the biggest impact on my children. I’ve had significant health challenges along the way. I lost over 90% of my hearing years ago when my children were young. Initially I was angry and focused on my loss. I was able to shift my focus by taking time each day to write down what I was thankful for. Some days were easier than others to see what was good in my life. One particularly hard day, I wrote that I was thankful for dirty dishes. Dirty dishes meant I had food to eat.

I believe gratitude needs to be practiced and I give thanks every day for the blessings in my life. Gratitude has helped me to shift from what I think I’m lacking to all that I have. My children see my active practice of gratitude, and the impact on my life, and it has influenced them. As adults, they also look for the good in their lives and their circumstances, whether positive or negative.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I make handcrafted jewelry using various metals such as copper, 14k gold filled and sterling silver. I also enjoy hand knotting pearls and other gemstones. But it’s more than making beautiful jewelry, it’s also about gratitude.
I want to share the joy of practicing gratitude through all parts of my life including the business.

I display a one page summary of my story at in-person events and at boutiques that carry my designs. Customers are inspired and often share their stories. We make a meaningful connection and this leads to rich conversation.

To share and spread the power of practicing gratitude, I have a gratitude jar at in-person events. I encourage customers to take a moment and share what they’re thankful for. Also, when someone purchases a piece as a gift, I include a random word of affirmation in each gift box.

Practicing gratitude can be transforming and I want to continue to connect with customers in this way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a beach walk in Santa Barbara, I like Hendry’s Beach. Dune Coffee Roasters is a great place for a chai latte. We would go to Renaud’s Patisserie for the best almond croissants. A stop at Third Window Brewing for a beer and delicious smash burgers must be on the list. A walk along Cabrillo Blvd. which runs along the ocean is always nice. Every Sunday Cabrillo is lined with local artisans selling their creations.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband, Greg, for listening and encouraging me.

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