From HR Executive to Full-Time Bedazzler, Rhinestone Artist | Amanda Kate
Hi, I'm Amanda. I'm the hands, heart, and (a lot of) sparkle behind Designs by Amanda Kate.
I am a Full-Time Rhinestone Artist.
If you've ever bought one of my custom tumblers, a pair of bedazzled socks, or a DIY bling kit, you already know I'm a little obsessed with rhinestones. What you might not know is that I didn't start as an artist. For more than 25 years, I was an executive leader in human resources.
This is the story of how I traded conference rooms for crystals, and why I've never looked back.
A Lifelong Love of Sparkle
I've loved sparkle for as long as I can remember. Glitter. Pink and teal everything. Cute notepads, good pens, and anything a little bit "girlie." If it shimmered, I wanted it.
That part of me never went away. It just got quieter while I built a career.
My 25+ Year Career in Corporate HR
My career in human resources was a big part of who I am. I spent more than two decades leading teams, hiring great people, coaching leaders, and helping organizations take care of their employees. I learned how to listen, how to solve problems, and how to make people feel seen.
I'm proud of that work. But somewhere along the way, I noticed that the moments that lit me up most weren't happening at my desk. They were happening at my kitchen table, with a pile of rhinestones and a blank tumbler in front of me.
The Moment Bedazzling Clicked for Me
What started as a creative outlet turned into gifts for friends. Gifts for friends turned into requests from friends of friends. And before long, I had an Etsy shop, real customers, and a growing feeling that this could be more than a hobby - a full time career as a Rhinestone Artist, Bedazzler.
Taking the Leap to Full-Time Bedazzler
Eventually, I realized I didn't want to love sparkle on the side anymore. I wanted to build my life around it.
So I did something that still makes my heart race a little when I say it out loud: I left my corporate career and went all in on Designs by Amanda Kate.
Was it scary? Absolutely. Leaving a steady, successful career after 25+ years isn't a small decision. But it also felt like the most "me" thing I've ever done. Honestly, some days it still feels like a dream.
A Day in the Life of a Rhinestone Artist
These days, I'm a coffee-fueled dog mom of two, hand-bedazzling custom pieces in my Massachusetts studio. Every stone is placed by hand, one at a time.
For many custom pieces, I start by hand-painting the design, which becomes the blueprint for the crystals. Then the rhinestones go on, layer by layer, until the whole thing shines.
What I Create
Custom rhinestone gifts for birthdays, weddings, graduations, and "just because"
Bedazzled apparel and socks that make any outfit a statement
Sparkly tumblers and accessories you'll want to carry everywhere
Pet accessories, because our fur babies deserve to shine too
DIY bling kits so you can experience the joy of bedazzling yourself at home, at parties, or at events
A Pinch-Me Moment: Dreamforce
I've also had the chance to create custom branded pieces for companies and events. One of my favorites was a fully bedazzled soccer ball for Salesforce and Tottenham Hotspur, made for Dreamforce in San Francisco. Seeing my work show up on a stage like that was unforgettable.
How My HR Background Makes Me a Better Artist
People are sometimes surprised when I tell them about my HR background, but it shows up in my business every single day.
Twenty-five years of working with people taught me how to really listen. When you order a custom piece, I want to understand who it's for, what it means, and how you want it to feel. That's the same skill I used for decades in HR, just with a lot more glitter involved.
It also taught me professionalism and follow-through. Whether you're ordering one gift or a bulk order for your dance team, sorority, or brand event, you'll get clear communication, honest timelines, and someone who genuinely cares about getting it right.
Why I Believe Everyone Deserves a Little Sparkle
I believe everything is better with a little sparkle, and that everyone deserves to feel that way. Nurses, teachers, moms, dads, brides, best friends, and even pets.
That's why I offer pieces at a range of price points. Sparkle shouldn't be reserved for special occasions or big budgets. It should be for anyone who wants a little extra shine in their day.
Let's Create Something Sparkly Together
Whether you're shopping for a one-of-a-kind gift, planning a bling-filled party, or looking for custom pieces for your team or brand, I'd love to work with you.
Shop ready-to-ship pieces and DIY kits → link to your Shop page
Request a custom quote → Custom Order
Planning a bulk or brand order? → Bulk Order inquiry
Follow along on Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook for behind-the-scenes videos and new designs
Thank you for supporting a small, handmade business. It truly means more than you know.
Love and Sparkle,
Amanda
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