Every Saturday morning, they arrive early at the Grapevine Farmers and Artisan Market to set up their displays of handmade silver jewelry laden with turquoise, opals and other stones. While preparing for the day, father-daughter duo Kelly and Paul Murray of Murray’s Artisan Jewelry Creations occasionally pause to chat with other vendors or an early customer. Visitors to their booth soon notice the small card which explains the Murray’s pride in their handcrafted jewelry and their unique opportunity to work side-by-side.
The joint business started five years ago when Paul realized he needed someone to manage the day-to-day communications for his business. Kelly jumped in and a father-daughter team was formed.
Reflecting on their joint effort five years later, Paul said, “How many fathers get to work with their daughters? It’s really fantastic!”
Kelly said the market offers a unique opportunity to connect with customers who are looking for something beyond what can be found in a jewelry store.
“We like the market," Kelly said. “People who come here are looking for what we do - the artisan, handmade creative pieces. It catches their eye and they love it, too. That’s what makes being at the market awesome.”
In the Studio
The array of silver pieces available at market represents hours of work in the garage workshop. From design concept to the hours of casting, hammering and finishing, Paul focuses on the finer details of each piece during every step of the process.
“I say this without bragging. I’m the best silversmith at the market and other people in the business will tell you the same thing,” Paul said. “However, now that I am older, age and shaking hands have made making jewelry a bigger challenge. It takes me longer to make pieces.”
Within the last year, Kelly has joined her father in making custom jewelry designs in addition to helping with the day-to-day details of the business.
“My dad has been asking me to make jewelry for a while,” she said. “This last year I started because I wanted to honor my dad. I took a class and then realized I really loved it!”
Though she is a beginner, Kelly said that she feels confident in her craft because she has been watching her father for so long. “If I have an idea and I think it will work, I just go for it. If I get stuck, I will call my dad for advice,” she said.
“When you make something and it’s handmade, every piece of your heart and soul is in it,” Kelly said. “Our hearts are in everything we do, and it shows in the jewelry we sell.”
In addition to selling at the market, the Murrays are also expanding their online presence. Visit them at the market or online to purchase their pieces or request a custom design.
The Grapevine Farmers & Artisan Market, located at the Town Square Gazebo (325 S. Main St.) is open Saturdays through September 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
