(PRESS RELEASE) PRESCOTT, AZ — S. Howell Studios has won the 2023 Halstead Grant for new jewelry businesses. Stephanie Howell receives a $7,500 cash grant, $1,000 in jewelry supplies, a trip to Prescott, Arizona, a detailed feedback report from the judging committee, and a signature trophy.
Grant founder and Halstead president, Hilary Halstead Scott said, “Stephanie presented a plan for authentic artistic expression and financial independence. She is proof that artrepreneurs can excel creatively and earn a good living in the field. She is an example of hard work and dedication. She elevates nature jewelry to new heights.”
Stephanie Howell became enthralled with the fluidity, malleability and permanence of metalsmithing during her first jewelry class at Middlesex Community College. She then graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a BS in Studio Art in 2011. Stephanie founded S. Howell Studios in 2019 in Moran, WY.
Stephanie said, “I am incredibly honored and proud to be this year’s recipient of the Halstead Grant. The rigorous application process pushed me to continually improve and seek guidance, ultimately propelling me towards success and affirming the value of perseverance and professional development in the early stages of my business. Winning the grant has provided me with invaluable resources and support, empowering me with a renewed sense of confidence in my entrepreneurial journey.”
S. Howell Studio’s collections are inspired by the beauty of the natural world and the dramatic landscapes of the Tetons. Her latest collection combines the mountains of the Tetons with grandidierite stones for a variety of natural beauty and organic texture. Her jewelry pieces start at $25 and range up to $1,250 for one of a kind and limited-edition pieces. All of her jewelry is made and packaged with sustainability in mind.
The Halstead Grant also awards finalists $1,000 cash and $500 in jewelry supplies from Halstead. The 2023 finalists are Allison Alane Jewelry, Kate Dannenberg Handmade, and Silver Borders.
The Halstead Grant began in 2006 to bring the business plan concept to the jewelry community. It provides resources for creative entrepreneurs to establish clear goals and measurable steps toward self-sufficiency. The application requires more than jewelry portfolio photos. Questions cover a business plan including marketing, competitive analysis, finances, and production capacity. The 2024 Halstead Grant application is now available with a May 1 deadline.
Contact: Ashley Maldonado – Halstead Digital Marketing Specialist – Ashley@HalsteadBead.com