The Story – Fly Jewel

As a young dreamer in the 1980s, Suzanne Bryan pretended to run a gift shop out of her bedroom. After setting up yellow plastic stackable shelves, she would strategically place costume jewelry, stationery, pens, figurines and stuffed animals among the shelves with price tags. Suzanne would then proudly tape a beautifully designed “OPEN” sign to the door. Family was invited to come in and shop during special store hours.

Her grammy’s fly jewel broach was a high-end item that was always a focal point on display in the “gift shop.” It had a beautiful aqua blue gem for a head and a belly of sparkling diamonds. She loved how it shined, even with its imperfections. Ironically, the fly jewel would turn up missing every time Suzanne’s dad had been in to shop. With no explanation as to what happened, it would somehow miraculously be found in the house later that day. Once she caught on to her father’s repetitive behavior, he would try to be more intentional in distracting her so that he could sneak the fly jewel away. Suzanne would confront her dad about the missing broach, and each time he would plead not guilty, of course. Over the years, they shared many laughs as this developed into a legendary joke between the two.

Although the fly jewel did not merit much financial worth, it was the most valued item in Suzanne’s shop because it was a gift from Grammy, her great grandmother. A small piece of memorabilia representing her incredible love and support invested in their family, a priceless gift. With the creation of Fly Jewel, LLC – that concept will remain. A gift that keeps on giving.

Biography:

A graduate of Ohio University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Health Services Administration, Suzanne has had the privilege of working in the senior health care industry for over 20 years. She has primarily worked in an administrative role of marketing and community relations. She loves being in a position to connect and help others align with the care and support they need to maintain independence and enhance their quality of life. Her passion is engaging in small projects with diverse groups where a sense of belonging can be experienced in a safe space. Creative expression through art provides a gift of purpose and meaning in unique ways. Suzanne has instructed creative art sessions with individuals and groups using mixed media, polymer clay and acrylic, gouache and watercolor paints. She has a joyful spirit and enjoys the “little things” in life, especially laughter with her family and friends.

Suzanne values continuing education, is credentialed as a CDP and is certified in Art Therapy. She is affiliated with the Giving Voice Foundation and C.A.R.E. (Cincinnati Aging Resource Experts), both 501c3s serving the aging community of Cincinnati with local programming and education. She, also, is a board member for Voices for Parkinson’s.