Phyllis Yancy's custom jewelry designs are untouchable; the quality, unquestionable. Just ask 2005 "American Idol" finalist, Anwar Robinson and actor, Malcolm Jamal Warner. Amazingly, the entire line is unique, handmade, and designed by Phyllis Yancy herself. Poised and vibrant in every sense of the words, Yancy founded Phyllis Yancy Designs more than ten years ago. Over this period, clients and customers have been mesmerized by beautiful Czech jewelry designs, Swarovski-cut crystals, Afrocentric beads, and other culture designs. Today, fueled largely by well-lit ambition and an exuberant passion to creatively enhance the lives of others, Yancy hopes to corner a relatively untapped and much-needed market -- mens' customized jewelry. And, if the male luminaries and celebrities she has as clients are any indication of early success, Phyllis Yancy is in great shape. Recently, EmediaCampaigns! sat down with Phyllis. We talked about her inspirations, devotions, her future projects, and of course, Phyllis Yancy Designs.

Fran Briggs: Good afternoon, Phyllis. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us.

Phyllis Yancy: Oh, thank you, Fran... What a great opportunity!

F.B. Lovin' your energy, Phyllis. Could you tell us more about your background?

P.Y. Yes. I've been married for seven years to a wonderful supportive man, Ernest Yancy. I have great family members on both sides. Beautiful parents, two incredible sisters, and the best in-laws one could ask for. Yep, surrounded by beautiful spirits. I graduated in 1998 with a master's in Integrated Marketing Communication from Roosevelt University, Chicago. Currently, I work in management at a major non-for-profit Association here in Chicago. I call this my 'meantime' job. Let's just say, I'm ready to 'live on purpose.' We all know, our world changes when we change.

F.B. Your jewelry is adorned by thousands. What is the inspiration, behind the inspiration of your handmade, custom-designs?

P.Y. The inspiration is the feeling I get when I custom-design a piece for someone and then receive such appreciation from that individual. When I know I have touched their spirit, I know my work is done! It is that very feeling that keeps me inspired.

F.B. "2005 American Idol Finalist," Anwar Robinson was seen on tour sporting several pieces of your designs. Could you briefly tell us how that came about?

P.Y. Briefly? (laughs) That might be hard for me! Okay, I will try... This is how my mens' line originated. I was home watching American Idol when contestant, Anwar Robinson came stage and began to sing Dionne Warwick's song, I Know I Will Never Love This Way Again. Now keep in mind, I didn't know anything one way or another about Anwar Robinson. As he was singing, I noticed he had on a beautiful, chocolate brown, velvet blazer and opened collar shirt. And yep -- nothing on his neck! Neck just bare. I looked and thought to myself, 'Man, Anwar, you need some jewelry.'

Okay, this is going to sound crazy but, all of a sudden, a small voice whispered in my ear: 'Well, why don't you make him some?' I jumped; (and) looked around because, the voice seemed so real to me. As if someone was there. I mean, no 'Come hither, thou...', just, 'Well, why don't you make him some?' I immediately went downstairs to my craft room and started creating jewelry for Anwar. Keep in mind, I had never designed men's jewelry before -- only women.

Well, to make a long story short, God showed me how to get the jewelry to him. Again, ordering my every step. It was because of that experience, I found that there is a market out there that the jewelry industry has missed -- men. Especially artists in the entertainment industry that don't necessarily want the enormous jewelry, i.e., 'Bling Bling!' but (rather) more cultural designs that connect with their spirit.

From this, God has blessed me and led me to design for several artists, including Malcolm Jamal Warner, Will Downing, Frank McComb, KEM, Che', Dave McMurray and Shelby Brown. I am now getting many artists from all backgrounds contacting me with great interest.

F.B. What an awesome story, Phyllis. It illustrates the importance of responding to our empowering, inner voice. Tell us, why do think designer beads are enjoying a resurgence in popularity these days?

P.Y. I think people are learning how to appreciate art in all forms. The beauty and energy these beads represent, the unique power to promote good health, and spiritual well-being has become an attraction. For example, people like to wear a carnelian stone for inspiration and prosperity. Tiger-eye stones represent clarity and peace. It is because of these positive energies and beliefs that God has brought my work to me. And, it's up to me to embrace the mysteries of this wonderful work.

F.B. Your product line and entire collection are both exemplary and unique. Was there ever a time when you doubted your ability to design such beautiful pieces?

P.Y. Sometimes I wonder if I will run out of ideas or if I am prepared for the "supply and demand" of my product. But mostly, I know God has given me a gift and I plan to obey the call and continue sharing this gift! When I feel I'm falling into a creative slump, somehow the Universe always brings an artist or customer my way, which gets me motivated all over again!

F.B. When did you first discover your passion and gift for creating beautiful, custom-designed jewelry?

P.Y. I always had a love for jewelry as a child. Funny story... I made my first pair of earrings for me and my sister with 'bobby pins.' I even made them dangle like chandeliers! My parents would not let us wear earrings at the time, so we had to make do! As far as designing real jewelry, I didn't realize that until 1995. This is yet another unbelievable story! While I was in undergraduate school, each student in one of my classes was charged with creating an artistic project. I told my instructor, 'Sorry, I don't have an artistic bone in my body.' He laughed and said, 'I think you will be able to come up with something; I believe in you!'

The very next day I decided to go to Michael's Arts and Craft Store. I walked down each aisle to see what would resonate with me. Well, I found myself in the aisle with the jewelry-making material and guess what? The rest is history. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I had any creative abilities! From there I did craft shows, home shows and sold to a couple of beauty salons. Lately, I'm finding my passion for designing one-of-a-kind pieces for men. We women can find jewelry everywhere we look, but for men ... the options are limited.

F.B. Most entrepreneurs have mentors as it pertains to the day-to-day operations of their businesses. Is this the same for you?

P.Y. Yes, I have spiritual mentors. Authors, Marianne Williamson, Wayne Dyer, Les Brown, Iyanla Vanzant and Deepak Chopra just to name a few. I read a lot of inspirational and motivational books and listen to tapes daily. I really believe if I can learn to create balance in my life, be opened to what God has for me, He will bring everything and everybody to me in order to do this business. When we live on purpose and live an inspired life, I don't believe we have to force anything or manipulate.

What God has for us, is for us! So my goal is to live a spiritual surrendered life and not be attached to any results. This automatically helps me with the day-to-day operations.

F.B. It's not atypical for an individual or organization to consult with others as it pertains to adding clarity to their vision. Who is responsible for helping clarifying the vision for Phyllis Yancy Designs?

P.Y. First, my husband, Ernest. He has this sort of quiet strength about him (which) brings me back to reality and helps me see the big picture. I sometimes lose that in all of the excitement! He keeps me focused...My sisters and a couple of girlfriends are always there letting me bounce ideas off of them, while also sharing their thoughts on what they think might work. My nephew, being the artist that he is has also been instrumental in helping me clarifying my vision for the company. Again, it's a blessing to have such a support team!

F.B. When are you most happiest?

P.Y.When I see an artist on stage proudly wearing a Phyllis Yancy Design -- whether that artist is considered 'famous' or not.

F.B. What's next for Phyllis Yancy?

P.Y. I would like to start focusing on marketing to retail stores such as Macy's, Neiman Marcus, Nordstroms, etcetera. We will see!

F.B. Believing all the best for you and your endeavors. Before we leave, please tell us how consumers can learn more about, or purchase your designs.