Shannon Bundschuh: Carry A Torch, Intentionally Building A Jewelry Business, Creating Online Courses, & Universal Business Challenges

Each one of us is on our own creative journey. We may be in different places at this time, but I think we can all learn something from each other no matter where we are. I know that each conversation on Slowmade has left me with more clarity and knowledge than I had before, and that is the beauty of community. I’m also deeply grateful to have the opportunity to get to know each artist a little more. Some, from the moment we connect, I feel like I’ve known for years. Shannon Bundschuh is one of those artists, and talking with her felt like talking to a good friend. Shannon is what I would consider an anomaly in the creative world. Although she began taking some metalsmithing classes in 2016, she took her time to get to know the craft and her market. With that knowledge in hand she intentionally thought through the launch of her business, Carry A Torch, 5 years ago, in 2019. With a background in graphic design, she created a cohesive image that flows seamlessly with her work. And shortly after the pandemic hit, she was able to pivot with her in person teachings at a local retreat center to building beautiful online courses all while raising a family. Shannon Bundschuh is the owner and creative force behind Carry A Torch. She is a silversmith, designing crushworthy jewelry out of her home studio in Scottsdale, Arizona. Shannon’s background in many other art mediums—including hand-lettering, computer graphics, sculpture, textiles and painting—all contribute to the color, texture and balance in her creations. A passion for trying new materials and challenging herself is what drove Shannon to try her hand at silversmithing, igniting a flame that has her smitten for good. She quite literally and figuratively carries a torch for this medium. And now in her classes, Shannon is sharing the seductive spark of silversmithing with her fellow artists. You can follow Shannon and see all of her crushworthy jewelry and courses at the links below:  Instagram: @carry.a.torch Website: Carry-A-Torch.com Please consider supporting the podcast by joining our Slowmade Podcast Community on Patreon. Your support makes the podcast possible. If you have a guest suggestion or topic for the podcast, please reach out to Christine at: Instagram: @christinemighion Website: https://www.christinemighion.com