Rachel Thomas 34 Occupation: Owner and jeweler of RLT Jewelry by Rachel Lauer Thomas
Email: rltjewelry@yahoo.com
Education: Bachelor's in psychology with a minor in art
Family: Husband, Michael; daughter, Addy; bonus kids, Ethan and Jolee
Affiliations/community activities: Partnerships with Butler Funeral Homes; First Steps Support Group; Five Star Vet; Staab Funeral Homes and Tails to Remember
What is your guiding principle in life? "Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance," James 1:2.
What led you to your current career? I admire the work of my family. It has inspired me to create jewelry. In 2019, I took the opportunity to stay home with my daughter and focus on my own business.
What has been your greatest professional achievement to date?
I get the opportunity to be of service to individuals and families in their hardest trials. I allow them a safe space to grieve, share stories and design a work of art to reflect that.
Are there any events of the past year that have affected you and how so?
Last year, we lost our 14-year-old dog, Maizy. Being able to be of service to myself and our family in one of our most difficult times allowed me to have a deeper respect for the work we do.
What's the best purchase (under $100) you've made in the last six
months? A laser wire for our new welding machine.