While at UVA, Erin McDermott could often be found making jewelry for friends and selling her handmade pieces at local boutiques. What began as a creative outlet quickly became a calling. Now the founder of Erin McDermott Jewelry in Charlotte, NC, she recently designed a UVA-inspired necklace to celebrate her Reunions year. Erin reflects on how her time on Grounds shaped her path as a designer, entrepreneur, and community-builder.
1. Tell us about your UVA story and the story of Erin McDermott Jewelry
I’ve always loved making jewelry, and my UVA journey played a huge role in shaping Erin McDermott Jewelry. While at UVA, I would create pieces for friends, and we had the best time styling outfits together, especially before events! Girls would stop by our apartment in Raleigh Court at University Circle to pick out jewelry, and I also sold pieces at Eloise (where I worked) in Charlottesville.
As a Studio Art Major focusing on printmaking, I worked a lot with color and shapes; carving linoleum blocks, creating patterns, and translating those designs into jewelry. Later, while earning my master’s at the Curry School, I taught jewelry-making and art classes in after-school programs. Steven Plaskon, my advisor at the Curry School, encouraged me to sell my pieces at the local farmers market, which was a huge turning point, and that’s where it all began!
2. When you’re back on Grounds, what’s the one place you must visit?
University Circle, which the house I lived in with my best friends, who are still my closest friends today! We loved it for so many reasons, but especially for the front porch. We spent countless hours there, in the rocking chairs, talking, laughing, and just soaking it all in!
3. What is your favorite UVA memory?
There are so many little moments that stand out, as simple as being on the Lawn on sunny days, lying in the grass, kicking a soccer ball, or tossing a football with friends. But if I had to pick just one, it would be singing The Good Ol’ Song at Scott Stadium. My husband, Bryan White, played football at UVA, and we were dating at the time. It was so special to be in the stands, cheering him on and feeling that incredible school spirit!
4. What’s one thing you learned at UVA that you carry with you today?
The Honor System! At UVA, we were constantly reminded to make good choices, act with integrity, and hold ourselves to a high ethical standard. It’s something I’ve carried with me ever since and try to live by every day!
5. What has been the most pivotal moment in your entrepreneurial journey, and how did your time on Grounds influence your journey?
One of the most pivotal moments in my entrepreneurial journey was moving into our new space this past year! It was a dream come true, bringing together everything I had been working toward all under one roof: a growing team, online order fulfillment, in-person events, and a space where everyone is welcome. I wanted it to be more than just a workspace; I envisioned a place filled with energy, music, open doors, and a true sense of community!
My time at UVA played a huge role in shaping this vision. It taught me the value of connection, creativity, and building something bigger than yourself. I also grew up watching my parents love what they do, I never heard them complain about work, and I’m so grateful to have built a business that I truly enjoy, where I can lose track of time doing what I love!
6. What are you most looking forward to at Reunions?
Being back on Grounds with friends! There’s nothing better than reconnecting, reminiscing, and soaking up all the nostalgia together!