In this feature I share about my experience as an accessory designer and business coach! To read full article click Shoutout North Carolina.

Tonya - Visionary Designer

​Did you know that cowrie shells have African roots and a direct connection with mermaids? This relationship makes the shells perfect for accessorizing mermaid costumes! 
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​Mami Wata is the most celebrated mermaid like deity from Africa. Cowrie shells are believed to be a gift from the water goddess. The shell is known to bring good luck and protection to those who wear them.
 
You too can feel like a goddess by rockin’ Accented Glory’s Cowrie Shell Adjustable Headband. This cowrie crown design is created with twelve (12) cowrie shells. The number 12 symbolize completion and harmony. All of my headband designs are adjustable which allows you to control how tight the headband fits! 
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​Cowrie shells are symbols of feminine and fertility due to their resemblance of vulva. Women in many African cultures wear them to help conceive and give birth safely. The shell’s energy from the ocean goddess brings good health.
 
As a woman own business, I embrace my femininity and innate ability to create. I believe positive energy is passed on to each design I handcraft. My Cowrie Shell Necklace is a great accent for mermaid costumes. It’s created with cowrie shells, hemp cord, and nickel free jewelry fixtures. 

​In many African cultures, cowrie shells were a symbol of wealth and prosperity. People with more cowrie shells were regarded as having higher social status. The shell is the earliest form of money known to mankind.  
 
It makes sense for under the sea royalty to adorn themselves with cowrie shell accessories. My cowrie flower earrings are beautiful mermaid accessories. The earrings are created with 5 shells; the number 5 signifies grace and goodness. This design was featured on Good Housekeeping article “15 Gorgeous DIY Mermaid Costumes You Can Throw Together at the Last Minute”.

​If you need seashell accessories for your mermaid costume, I Got You! My handcrafted cowrie shell designs would be a great accent. Shop for my designs on Amazon, Etsy, and at Milton Rhodes Center of the Arts gift shop in Winston Salem, NC. 

Tonya - Visionary Designer

Get a FREE copy of my “Styling With Hair Accessories Guide” here! ​

Excited to share that I have an Amazon Store! You can check it out and shop at Accented Glory on Amazon. No look is complete without great accessories!