My Story
In life, it’s important to find the good, see the beauty, be grateful, and look for something positive through tragedy. And that’s what I had to do when we lost our beloved dog, Bella. We were not fortunate to have kids, she was my all, my girl, my heart. So when I found out summer of ’22 she had an inoperable tumor I was lost, crushed, devastated.
Somehow I found my way to making jewelry late that summer to help my mind, almost like a form of meditation. To make life harder, my husband and I recently had to close our strength & conditioning studio RUNAWAY in Chicago due to Covid. So yea, life was turned upside down .
Later that September, 3:00am Bella let us know it was her time and we rushed her to the VEG emergency clinic. My life stopped, the jewelry making stopped. But later that fall, I found the courage to take a risk and sell some of my jewelry with the intention of donating a portion of the sales to VEG Cares, and it worked, I called the bracelets BELLA BEADS! I sold! Wow maybe this is the positive from the heartache.
I am not shy to take risks. I moved to Newport Beach, California after graduating from Ohio University in 2000 and eventually became a personal trainer. I then moved to Charlotte, NC and added Pilates instructor/ studio owner to my growing resume. In 2014 I met my husband Ted in Chicago and moved there, had a Pilates studio for a short bit before we opened RNWY. Ohhh, and at the young age of 40 I ran my 1st marathon, 3 more followed after that experience, sub 4hr to top it!
I embrace change and take risks because I know new paths that present themselves will lead to beautiful life experiences.
And so now, I hope you follow me down this path of growing a jewelry line & brand. A jewelry line that is playfully chic, inspired by classical traditions, and tweaked with current trends. And that my story will inspire you to BE BOLD in your goals and to always SHINE BRIGHT in life!
BTW, what is BULL + STAR you ask? The bull is a nod to Chicago’s stockyard origins and our men’s line. The star is a nod to Chicago’s star on our flag and our women’s line.
Be Bold + Shine Bright,
💖 Kristine
our designs are
Handmade with Love
All of our jewelry is handmade locally here in Chicago, with a close eye and an attention to detail. We make sure every stone is uncovered to layout a perfectly chic bracelet design.
Our Quality
Stacks up
Our beaded jewelry is strung on high quality and durable stretch cord. Each bracelet is strongly secured for lasting use. We know accidents happen and jewelry, by nature, is delicate. We will repair damaged items with proof (send a pic) so that you can continue to SHINE BRIGTH with what you love.