Creativity runs through Cyndi Thomson’s veins. The Tifton, GA, native moved to Nashville shortly after graduating high school, driven by dreams of a country music career. She attended Belmont University for a year before dropping out to pursue music full-time, almost immediately penning a deal with Capitol Records. In 2001, she hit country radio with the force of a hurricane. In fact, her first single, “What I Really Meant to Say,” spent three weeks at number one on the charts.
But with fame’s perks come challenges, and Cyndi opted to step away from the limelight for a while. Instead, her creativity found a new platform in jewelry-making, and she developed her sought-after line, Haybelle Co. Cyndi’s pieces have taken on a life of their own, and the artistry has even led Cyndi back to music. She recently returned to the country arena with her newest single, “The Georgia In Me.” Please welcome this week’s FACE of Nashville, Cyndi Thomson.
Let’s talk jewelry. What inspired you to start Haybelle Co.?
I was inspired to start Haybelle Co. when I found myself looking for a creative outlet. I was dying to make something with my hands … I can’t explain it. I just never imagined it would be jewelry! We had traveled to the beach on a family vacation. One evening, while shopping in the quaint little beach town, I was captivated by some earrings on display in a store. All I can remember was looking at my husband and saying, “I’m gonna start making jewelry.” Thankfully, he said, “OK!”
Can you tell us about your jewelry and what makes your pieces stand out?
Haybelle Co. is a luxury designer jewelry brand. We create collections of heirloom-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces. We treasure hunt all over the world to find beautiful antique pieces and make them into something new. Our collectors regard our pieces as “wearable art.” Serving as a bridge between nostalgia and modern design, the pieces in the Haybelle Co. collection also celebrate the artistry behind vintage jewelry while incorporating dynamic designs.
You had a lot of success in the music industry early on. What made you step away, and what led you back to it?
Choosing to step away from music was the hardest decision I have ever made. I was struggling with fame. I knew something had to give when I began having panic attacks and had to have my heart monitored on a weekly basis. I was also struggling mentally and emotionally, and I knew that in order to preserve my love for music, I needed to step away. It was extremely difficult, but absolutely the right decision.
I always knew I would sing again; I just didn’t know when or how. It was right after my dad died that I finally decided I was tired of making excuses. I found myself driving around my hometown praying to God about it all, and I decided then and there to make a record. Miraculously, everything started falling into place; it happened so fast. I was consumed by the desire to sing again and connect with fans. I have never been more excited about music and can’t wait to see all that is ahead.
Considering you have dual careers, what is a typical day like for you?
My days are crazy at the moment. Most days, I’m up early with my son making his lunch for school, out the door to work, and then jump right into meetings. I always try to pick my son up from school and get him to all his sporting events. I focus on Haybelle Co. a few days a week, and the remaining hours are filled with music. I’m still trying to figure out how to juggle everything, but no complaints from me — I am so grateful for this journey!
What do you consider your greatest success?
My children are my greatest successes. I’m constantly blown away by the amazing humans they have become. My children are my greatest success. I’m constantly blown away by the amazing humans they have become. The way they treat others, their strong faith, and the relationships my husband and I have cultivated with them is invaluable. I love my little family”
Who have been your most profound female mentors?
My grandmother Pauline and my mother Patricia have been the most profound female voices in my life. I am so very grateful for their wisdom and love.
Fill in the blank. You’ll never find me without my _________.
You’ll never find me without my Peepers glasses. Making jewelry has done a number on my eyes. I think there are four or five identical pairs in my car alone.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I have ever received is “Never stop dreaming.”
Excluding faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
1) My shelter dog Belle
2) My skincare products (too many to list)
3) Music
LIGHTNING ROUND
Where do you go to relax? My favorite place to relax (although I don’t get to go as much as I would like) is the Mirror Cabins at Bolt Farm Treehouse, nestled in the mountains just outside of Chattanooga — so dreamy and the perfect way to relax.
Favorite Southern city to visit? My favorite Southern city to visit is Savannah, GA. I love the shops, food, and history. Not to mention, my sister lives there, and I always love being with her.
Favorite indulgence? I love to indulge in Nashville’s very own Ivey Cake cupcakes.
Are there any up-and-coming artists we should have on our radar? I am a big fan of Avery Anna. I also LOVE Ashley Monroe. Not only is she my friend, but she is a truly one-of-a-kind artist. Last but not least, Benson Boone! He’s amazing!
What five songs would be on your entertaining playlist?
1) “A Sunday Kind of Love” (Etta James)
2) “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)” by Aretha Franklin
3) “The Feeling of Jazz” (Duke Ellington & John Coltrane)
4) “Come Away with Me” (Norah Jones)
5) “Home Again” (Michael Kiwanuka)
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
**********
Southern women are nothing short of inspiring. Meet more of them over at our FACES archives!
