During the winter of 2024, Kayla and Josh signed up for a metalsmithing class, hoping for a memorable date night. They didn't expect to leave completely captivated by the craft.

For Josh, the experience also rekindled a family connection. His grandfather was a silversmith in Glendive, Montana, who made knives, buckles, and treasured family heirlooms. Stories about his work had always been part of Josh's life, and the class felt like a chance to carry that legacy forward.

They started with the basics, sawing, filing, sanding, and polishing. Before long, evenings that had once been spent watching TV or scrolling on their phones turned into hours of sketching ideas, sourcing materials, and trying new techniques. Weekends became filled with tool shopping, online tutorials, and more classes. With every new skill they learned, their confidence and excitement grew.

What began as an after-work hobby gradually turned into a fully equipped workshop. Their workbench filled with pliers, hammers, and sheets of brass, copper, bronze, and silver. Mistakes became lessons, and those lessons became pieces with their own unique character. Kayla brought an eye for design and finishing details, while Josh contributed a deep appreciation for traditional craftsmanship and a careful, patient approach. Together, they transformed raw metal into pendants, rings, bracelets, earrings, and other handcrafted pieces.

That shared passion eventually became Roc City Smithy, a small studio in Rochester, New York. Every piece they create is made by hand and reflects not only technical skill, but also curiosity, family tradition, and thoughtful craftsmanship.

Their hope is that each piece becomes more than just jewelry or metalwork. They want it to become something meaningful, something worth holding onto, and perhaps even a future heirloom to be cherished for generations.