Today we’d like to introduce you to Reanna Montgomery
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
The business began as a passion project, much like many others. I was born and raised in Alabama, and throughout the years, I’ve had the privilege of living in several remarkable Southern towns and cities. These experiences have deeply influenced my art. I’ve always had a love for shells and have been collecting them for as long as I can remember. There’s something so captivating about discovering a perfectly preserved shell; as a child, it made me feel incredibly lucky and special. Even now, as an adult, I still feel that same excitement. It brings me immense joy to transform these cherished finds into creations that others can appreciate and connect with, sharing in the beauty and happiness they bring me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There was definitely a learning curve. One of the biggest challenges was finding the right adhesive. And, of course, remembering to wear gloves is something I’ll probably always struggle with. I’ve accepted that I’ll live with paint-stained hands, glue stuck to my palms, and a few broken nails along the way. But in all seriousness, it’s about taking things step by step. When I first started, I had no idea what was needed to launch a business and no one to turn to for advice. I just made calls and asked a lot of questions. Thankfully, people were kind, supportive, and eager to help, which made the process less daunting and really boosted my confidence.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I create custom art and home decor from oyster shells that I personally handpick along the coastlines of the Deep South. From collecting the shells, to cleaning, bleaching, hand-painting, and crafting the finished pieces, I manage every step of the process myself. My goal is to showcase the natural beauty of the South through unique, handmade items. While I work with various seashells, I specialize in oyster shells. Every material I use is authentic. Any cotton is handpicked and collected by me, and the Mardi Gras elements come directly from parades in New Orleans. Each piece is one of a kind. I’m committed to incorporating genuine, locally sourced materials into all of my work.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Never underestimate your own potential. Make the calls and ask the questions. It’s ok to not have all the answers. Give yourself grace. You’d be surprised at how kind and helpful people can be. Always advocate for yourself—because if you don’t, no one else will.
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