Rebeca Franco’s journey into crafting jewelry and accessories from polymer clay began as a delightful hobby back in 2015 when she moved to Arkansas following her marriage. Her fascination with the limitless possibilities of this material and her background in engineering added a unique touch to her creations. Her business, Candies and Clay, was born.
Initially, she started selling her handmade pieces at local markets in Bentonville. The intricate details and special charm of her jewelry caught the attention of people, and Rebeca enjoyed the personal interactions with customers and fellow vendors. It was during these local markets that she discovered the joy of connecting with people through her craft.
Expanding her reach, Rebeca ventured into the online world by selling her creations on Etsy, reaching customers worldwide. Her unique pieces soon found homes in unexpected places. Additionally, she collaborated with local shops like Fayetteville Mercantile and Java Dudes Coffee Co., where her jewelry became a part of the array of handmade goods, introducing her work to new audiences.
In 2021, Rebeca took a significant step by officially registering her business, paving the way for new opportunities and growth. Despite her online success, she cherished meeting customers in person at fairs and markets, sharing stories about her creations, and witnessing the joy they brought to both adults and children. These direct connections remained the heart of her business.
The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center recognized Rebeca’s hard work and is actively supporting her business to foster further growth. Rebeca and business consultant Carolina Mejia are working together to develop a solid business plan, ensuring the future expansion of her business while preserving the essence of her craft.
With the guidance and assistance of ASBTDC and fueled by her passion, Rebeca’s polymer clay jewelry business continues to thrive. Her pieces are cherished for their artistry and personal touch. Through her journey, Rebeca exemplifies how a simple hobby can evolve into a successful business, all while maintaining a close connection with her customers.
www.instagram.com/candiesandclay/