The Story Behind The Becoming Collection
Faith transforms us in many ways. And in this case, one woman’s faith journey has inspired a line of jewelry that supports others in their time of need. We’re honored to introduce you to Tara Gronhovd, the woman behind The Becoming Collection.
Tara, can you tell us a little about you and how your faith inspired the collection?
In 2008, I was a small business owner and a single mom who had recently committed my life to Jesus. Because of this transformation, I chose to be baptized as a public declaration of my faith. In preparation for my baptism, I wanted a symbol to remind me daily what God is doing in me and through me—something that could represent my faith and personal transformation.
I wasn’t exactly sure what it would look like but thought a custom-designed piece of jewelry would be a daily reminder of my commitment. That’s where Melissa Kruse Kelley comes into the story! I approached J.F. Kruse Jewelers because I knew they were a locally owned business founded on strong Christian principles. Somehow I knew they’d just “get it.” And they did.
How did you come up with the design?
Melissa and I talked through several ideas but kept coming back to the Mobius tattoo I’d gotten in my early 20s. A Mobius is a mathematical symbol of constant transformation. We incorporated a cross into the design to symbolize constant transformation in Christ. In addition, we made the surface half rough and half smooth to reflect before and after. I added a little diamond in the center to represent the Holy Spirit.
So that’s just one custom-designed pendant. How did this single piece become a collection?
After I was baptized and began to wear my pendant, I was asked all the time “where did you get that? Can I buy it somewhere?” Seriously, I bet a dozen people stopped me in the first week!
I’d answer them with “I’m sorry, it’s my original design.” And I’d walk away. A few months later God spoke to me. I heard him say, “I gave you this transformation. I gave you the symbol. Are you really going to keep it to yourself?”
So I again went to Melissa and told her about my revelation and asked if we could partner to make “my” piece available to others, with proceeds going to help moms in crisis. The J. F. Kruse philosophies of giving back to the community made this project a natural fit as it honors their values, their mission and their desire to help others.
How did you decide on the name BECOMING for the collection?
Through prayer, the word just came to me. It’s all about becoming who you are meant to be in Christ. These pieces are all about affirmation and encouragement, boldness to share your story, and offering support. That’s why a portion of the proceeds from The Becoming Collection go to local non-profits supporting teen moms and young women in crisis.
What pieces are available in The Becoming Collection?
In addition to the original pendant, we’ve added a charm, rings, bracelets and tie tacks. J. F. Kruse Jewelers can help you customize your Becoming piece. You can have it created in gold, white gold or add a diamond or birthstone. These pieces make wonderful, impactful gifts to celebrate faith milestones for both men and women. Or, as in my case, a powerful, tangible reminder of a personal commitment.
At J.F. Kruse Jewelers, we live our mission of enriching lives through SPIRIT-STORY-SPARKLE.
• We strive to embody SPIRIT with our commitment to integrity and the Christian principles we were founded on.
• We believe every person has a STORY. We are honored to have the opportunity to learn and become a part of each story through the jewelry created or chosen, and the experience we deliver.
• We bring SPARKLE to the lives of each person we meet, no matter how brief the encounter. This includes sharing the blessings that our company has received in order to benefit others.