Our Story

2003 — Where It All Began

It started with a toe ring.

On a trip to South Padre Island in 2003, my husband and I walked into Karen’s for the first time. I bought my very first fitted toe ring and immediately fell in love with the little shop, the experience, and everything Karen’s represented.

I remember thinking, “One day, I’m going to own this place.”

At the time, it was simply a dream.

2025 — The Dream Comes Full Circle

Twenty-two years later, the opportunity arrived.

When the original owners decided it was time to sell, the little shop I had fallen in love with all those years ago became ours.

In 2025, we moved Karen’s into a new space and began a new chapter—honoring the tradition that made Karen’s special while adding a little of our own personality along the way.

2025–2026 — A New Karen’s Experience

We expanded the Karen’s experience with permanent jewelry, a Hat Bar, new jewelry and accessories, while continuing the fitted toe rings and anklets that started it all.

Through two incredible summers, we’ve met new customers, welcomed back longtime ones, and watched Karen’s continue to grow.

2026 — Meet A.L.M.A.

And now, we’re ready for the next chapter.

A.L.M.A. Metalsmith Studio brings the art of jewelry-making into Karen’s with hands-on metalsmithing workshops where you can create something uniquely yours.

It’s more than jewelry. It’s the experience of making something with your own hands—and taking home the story that goes with it.

A.L.M.A. Metalsmith Studio
Created by hand. Made with soul.

From a Toe Ring to a Dream Come True

2003: I bought my first toe ring.
2025: I bought the store.
2026: We begin creating something entirely new.

What started with one little toe ring more than twenty years ago has become a story I never could have imagined.

And we’re just getting started.