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Writer's pictureSydney Kennedy

A Journey Supported by Love and Community

Updated: Oct 1

Celebrating the Heartfelt Support Behind Every Handmade Piece


As I sit here, surrounded by clay and tools in my at-home studio, I can’t help but reflect on how much support I’ve had throughout this journey as a ceramicist. Creating something from scratch—whether it’s a delicate mug, a sturdy bowl, or a whimsical planter—takes patience, but it also takes a village. Today, I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to the people who have been with me, guiding and cheering me on as I’ve shaped this passion into something real.

A ceramic lantern with intricate lace-like cutouts sits on a wooden shelf against a brick wall.


The very first people who believed in my potential were my parents. I still remember taking those two pottery classes in college. I was just playing with clay back then, not fully realizing how important it would become to me. But my mom must have known—she still has some of the pieces I made in those early classes displayed in her home. Their belief in me from the start, even when pottery was just a fun elective, planted the first seeds.



Then, there’s my husband. He’s been my biggest supporter, in every way. After I realized I needed a sense of purpose beyond my role as a mom and homemaker, he encouraged me to take that leap and set up my own at-home studio. It wasn’t just the financial support (which was huge!) but the emotional encouragement he offered. He reminded me of how much I loved pottery, and that I deserved to follow that passion. I wouldn’t have been able to start this journey without him.


I also owe so much to my professors from those college ceramics classes. They taught me to make what I love and to never lose sight of that joy. That advice has stuck with me throughout this journey. Beyond my professors, my family—my husband, mom, dad, and brother—have continued to push me to create functional, beautiful pieces. Years ago, my dad gave me some of the best advice I’ve ever received: “Enjoy life because you will never get the time back.” That’s the mindset I bring with me every time I sit down at the wheel.


People browsing handmade ceramics displayed on tables and shelves in a cozy room during a pottery event

While I haven’t yet sold my ceramics at markets (though that’s coming soon!), my first real taste of community support came from a private Sip and Shop I hosted at my home. My mother-in-law’s friends came out to support me, and I was blown away by their enthusiasm. I sold out of multiple pieces and had people asking for more! It was such a proud moment, seeing how much my hard work over the past year and a half resonated with others. Their support, their belief in me, has been fuel for this dream of mine.


To everyone who’s supported me—whether you’ve encouraged me from the sidelines or have given my ceramics a home—I can’t thank you enough. Each piece I make carries a little bit of my heart, and knowing that they’ve found their way into your homes means more than I can express. I hope you’ll continue to follow my journey, and maybe find a new handmade piece to bring into your life. This is only the beginning, and I’m so grateful to have you all with me.


With love and gratitude,

Sydney

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