Meet Jessica Wilkerson | Jewelry Creator

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

Hi Jessica, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started my upcycled jewelry business because I’ve always loved one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories. Growing up, my mom had a drawer full of unfinished jewelry projects made from broken pieces—an overwhelming collection of projects left incomplete. This inspired me, and I realized I enjoyed taking things apart and creatively transforming discarded pieces into something new and unique.

My goal is to create jewelry that not only looks beautiful but also tells a story—each piece is truly one of a kind, so no one else will have the same item. I want to offer people the chance to wear something different, something meaningful that stands out. Turning what might have become trash into wearable art feels like a way to honor the materials and give them new life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is rooted in transformation — I take broken, discarded, or forgotten jewelry and give it new life through upcycled, one-of-a-kind pieces. Each item I create is unique, crafted with care and intention, and tells a story. What sets my work apart is not just the look of the jewelry, but the heart behind it. I don’t create multiples or mass-produce anything. Every piece is a mix of history, personality, and purpose — something truly different that no one else will own.

What I’m most proud of is that my pieces make people feel seen, special, and connected. I love when someone picks up a piece and says, “This feels like it was made for me.” That’s the kind of connection I aim to create with each design.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been easy. There were times I questioned whether to keep going, especially when facing burnout or self-doubt. But reconnecting with my creativity and remembering why I started — to give new life to forgotten pieces — helped me keep moving forward.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to trust my own voice and creative process. It’s easy to feel pressure to follow trends or fit a certain mold, but I’ve found the most joy and success by staying true to my own style and values.

What I want the world to know about my brand and my story is this: beauty doesn’t have to be perfect, new, or conventional. Sometimes the most meaningful things come from what others might throw away. Through my jewelry, I want to inspire people to see value in the unexpected — and to wear something that reflects their own uniqueness and strength.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit me in Boulder, I’d want to give them the full experience — the kind of week that shows off everything I love about this town. I live full-time in a custom-built box truck, so I’d want them to see Boulder through that lens: simple, adventurous, and full of little local treasures.

We’d definitely spend time on Pearl Street as I used to manage Pompadours Hair Salon— shopping, wandering, catching street performers, and grabbing something good to eat–such as Pizza Calore. In the evening we’d head underground to License No. 1, the hidden speakeasy with skee ball, Photo Booth, drinks and a moody, vintage vibe. Another night, we’d let loose a little at Press Play, the arcade bar just off Pearl — because who doesn’t love old-school games? And pop into Rocket Fizz for some nostalgic candy, wild sodas, and a back room of more nostalgic video games.

During the day, we’d be outside as much as possible. Climbing is a big part of my life, so I’d take them bouldering up Flagstaff Road or to the Satellite Boulders. After that, we’d jump into Boulder Creek for a refreshing dip or float down the river — relaxing, laughing, and soaking up the sunshine and playing lawn games at the nearby park, Eben G. Fine Park. Hiking is a must too — Chautauqua and Mt. Sanitas if they’re up for a challenge and the rewarding views are worth the effort.

For a more laid-back night, we’d head to Rayback Collective. It’s the perfect mix of chill and community — food trucks, drinks, and a fire pit that make it easy to hang out and unwind.

What I’d want most is for them to feel what makes Boulder special — that mix of adventure, connection, and creativity. Living here, especially in the way I do, teaches you to appreciate the little things: fresh air, good people, and moments that feel a little bit magical.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely — my journey wouldn’t be the same without the amazing community I’ve found here in Colorado. I’m incredibly grateful for the support, encouragement, and friendship of a few talented women who’ve truly made an impact on me and my business.

Jackie Lukianov of Jackie Trejo Art inspired me to start vending again when I was unsure about getting back out there. I’m so thankful for the push she gave me and the help she has offered me in this journey. Laura Masterson of Sole by La has gone above and beyond by including me in many shows, offering up space in her own booth and teaching me skills one-on-one. And Jamie Swan with Meraki Made has always been such a calm, grounding presence — her kindness keeps us all centered.

These women aren’t just fellow creatives — they’re part of a community that truly lifts each other up. I’m proud to know them and incredibly thankful for the role they’ve played in my story.

Instagram: DarlingofMineDM

Image Credits
Jackie Lukianov