A Lasting Impression: Permanent jewelry comes to The Alley this Friday
Stevie Ybarra is bringing a little extra sparkle to this week’s First Friday ArtWalk.
Stevie is the owner of Zapped, a company that offers permanent jewelry. This Friday, she’ll host a pop-up at The Alley Gallery. Ahead of the event, she talked with Steamboat Magazine about how she got her start, what she loves about permanent jewelry and what visitors can expect from Zapped.
Steamboat Magazine: How did you first get into permanent jewelry, and what inspired you to start offering it?
Stevie Ybarra: After graduating from Sam Houston State University with a degree in Entrepreneurship, I took a trip to Dallas, Texas, where I got my first permanent bracelet. I immediately fell in love with the concept and the experience behind it. I ordered my soldering machine that day.
SM: What do you enjoy most about creating permanent jewelry for people?
SY: What I enjoy most is helping someone feel a little more confident and special when they leave. Whether it’s a girl or a guy, I love helping them pick out the perfect chain and charm that fits their personality and gives them a way to express themselves. Seeing someone light up when they look at their finished piece is definitely my favorite part.
SM: Are there any particular styles, chains or trends that customers have been gravitating toward lately?
SY: The Cassi chain paired with a birthstone charm has definitely been a favorite lately. It’s dainty, simple and personalized, which makes it perfect for everyday wear. I think people really love being able to choose something that not only looks beautiful but also has a personal meaning behind it.
SM: What made you want to participate in First Friday ArtWalk at The Alley Gallery?
SY: I really wanted to become more connected with the community and be part of all the fun that First Friday brings. I love meeting new people, supporting other local businesses and artists, and getting Zapped out into the community. It felt like the perfect opportunity to get involved and share something I love with Steamboat.
SM: What can visitors expect when they stop by your pop-up?
SY: A variety of 14-karat gold-filled and sterling silver chains that can be completely personalized to their style. I offer bracelets, necklaces, anklets, hand chains and more, with the option to make your piece permanent or add a clasp if you prefer traditional jewelry. You can also add charms to make your piece even more personal and unique to you.
SM: What makes permanent jewelry different from traditional jewelry?
SY: What makes it so special is that it’s welded together, creating a “forever” piece – whether you choose a bracelet, necklace, anklet or hand chain. There’s no clasp, so you can wear it every day without having to take it on and off. My gold-filled and sterling silver options are water-resistant, so you can shower, sleep and go about your everyday life in them. Plus, you get to completely personalize your piece by choosing the chain and charms that feel most like you.
SM: What are your hopes for your business moving forward?
SY: I would love to become more involved in the wedding industry and be part of those really special moments – bridal showers, bachelorette parties, the morning of the wedding and other celebrations leading up to the big day. I’d also love to do more private events and pop-ups around town. Permanent jewelry is such a fun experience to share with the people you love, and I want Zapped to be something people can incorporate into the moments and memories they’ll always remember.
SM: Where can people find you or book an appointment after First Friday?
SY: After First Friday, you can find me on Instagram at @zapped.by.stevie or contact me directly by phone to book. I’m available for private events, bridal parties, weddings, girls’ nights and other special occasions.