Fashion Oklahoma is always on the hunt for Oklahoma-based artisans and shops to find the latest and most unique fashion finds around. Recently, at the Indie Trunk Show at the State Fairgrounds, we met Jeannie Stephenson, owner of Indigo Gypsy in Midwest City and artist of unique jewelry and

gifts. We asked her a few questions to learn more about her and her art. Below is what she said.

Tell us, in general terms, about your business and art. Indigo Gypsy features jewelry handmade right here in Oklahoma. Some of the pieces feature components that are vintage. I also try to purchase as many of my supplies locally as possible. My focus is making unique,fun and eye catching jewelry.

How long have you been in business? I started selling my work online through Facebook about three years ago. I also was a vendor with the roller derby league I used to skate with. I didn’t make a real run at this until I came home about a year and a half ago. I felt I needed to be back in Oklahoma,back where I belong. That’s when it all started to come together and I started booking bigger shows.

What inspired you to start your own business? I’ve always been the artsy,creative type. Making jewelry is fairly new to me however it’s what I feel is my calling in art. I love being able to combine so many different elements and techniques into one piece. The possibilities are pretty endless. I would wear my pieces and get comments or people would want to buy them. That’s when I turned to social media.

What inspires your art and business? What is your vision? Everything inspires me. It can truly be as simple as a flower,random as bottles of nail polish next to each other in fun combinations or maybe something more expected like a sunset. I have a piece made with peach quartz,blue agate and grey crystals that was inspired by a sunset last summer. I loved the colors.

What makes you unique? I think what sets me apart is that I see things differently. I often joke that if something sits still long enough I will turn it into jewelry but that’s somewhat true. I’ve made pieces using dominoes,wine corks,spent shell casings and seashells among other things. I like to find the beauty in things and I enjoy the challenge of finding them a new purpose.

Of all the items you have made, what is your favorite? I can honestly say I love them all. I put my heart and soul into each piece I create. But If I must choose a favorite it’s a tree of life necklace I did with real Peridot chips.

And lastly, tell us anything you would like people to know. If you could say anything about what you do, what would it be? I live for the look on people’s faces when they pick up my work and fall in love, I know that in that one moment they are happy and that’s the best feeling in the world.

When you first meet Jeannie, with her Bettie Page bangs, piercings and eclectic wardrobe, you know you are in store for something new, different, and exciting. Her jewelry is intricate and creative. Her creations include everything from the aforementioned tree-of-life peridot pendant to Christmas tree ornaments made to look like cupcakes. (We have seven of those for our tree! — Publisher)

Jeannie’s work can be seen and purchased on her Indigo Gypsy facebook page HERE.