“I never thought about making jewelry, but as a young girl, I made friendship bracelets woven together with beach items—surfer/puka shell type of jewelry,” she says. Like many New Jersey and Pennsylvania residents, Hali spent summers down the shore. And as with many artists, her early years led her to study at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia. “I changed majors three times,” Hali laughs, “After painting, I wound up taking a series of multi-disciplinary courses, which may have spurred my love.” As part of the curriculum, she had to write about what inspired her, which later, inspired her jewelry. So, jewelry-making was her third major, and one that was unintended. According to the artist, it basically ‘fit’ into her class schedule. Not expecting much, she wound up being wowed by the history and the tools. “Rusty, old steel tools are amazing to work with,” adds Hali. Many of the tools haven’t changed much in centuries, and that brings a slower pace for her—although her success has been anything but. After college, she jumped into her own business, creating a studio for herself in her dad’s kitchen design showroom. Through attendance at shows, working the magic of social media and sending out newsletters, she has gained a solid client base. She’s also represented in a few regional galleries and boutiques. Like other artists, Hali loves working with her hands. “Your hands are true, though not perfect.” Which is what makes artisan products so appealing. And that’s a perfect segway into her collections.