BELLVILLE — The ocean always brought Jamie Hershner a sense of safety and peace.
A southwest Detroit native, Hershner now lives in Bellville with her husband Brandon and three kids. She works in accounting and recently launched a jewelry business called Aurora Wave.
“I try to incorporate something related to the beach in everything I make,” she said.
“I never thought I’d live in Ohio, my dream was always to live in Florida, but God led me here and now I’m bringing the beach to Bellville.”
Aurora Wave was named for Hershner’s daughter Maddie Aurora, who is 2 years old.
“I named her after Sleeping Beauty, so it incorporates my love of Disney as well,” Hershner said.
“We didn’t have much growing up, but my mom took me and my sisters to Disney World twice, and I absolutely loved it.”
Aurora Wave’s slogan is “Be The Light,” inspired by the Bible and Hershner’s trust in God’s plan for her life.
“No matter how hard life can get and how many challenges you face, God is always there,” she said. “Growing up in southwest Detroit, it wasn’t the best area.
“I maintained a steadfast belief that my circumstances did not dictate my future.”
Hershner’s mother still lives in Michigan, which she visits frequently. Her mother was diagnosed with lung cancer last year, but is currently stable.
“The road to Aurora Wave was paved with tears, prayers and late nights,” Hershner said. “My father passed away in 2020 and I was grappling with that grief. I felt God’s prompting to start the business because there was never going to be the perfect time.”
Taking a break to care for her mom from a state away, Hershner said she relaunched Aurora Wave in late March 2024.
Aurora Wave scheduled for Prairie Peddler & vendors markets
Hershner said she has taken Aurora Wave to multiple vendor fairs and plans to sell her jewelry and accessories at the Prairie Peddler Pickers Market and the June 1 Fredericktown Vendors Market.
“I’ve done a few so far, and I’m getting a lot of positive feedback, especially from little girls, which is really encouraging,” she said.
The mother of three said she usually makes items when her kids are napping or at night after she’s finished work.
“My husband has been so supportive of making my dreams a possibility,” she said. “The kids were all at my first show in Bellville, which was a blast.”
Hershner said her goals for the business are to spread joy and positivity. She said she wants to be an example of hope for people facing challenges.
“I’m not concerned about making money as much because I want to gear the businesses toward being a positive influence in the community,” she said.
“When you wear Aurora Wave Brand items, you’re not just wearing jewelry, apparel and accessories, you’re embracing a lifestyle filled with love, gratitude and hope.”