The story of A Different Twist began in 2001. In response to a fundraising effort for her daughter’s elementary school’s Relay for Life™ Team, Kathi Ellers created a bracelet for the event. The response was overwhelming, and the school team was able to raise thousands of dollars. She continued making bracelets and sold them to other teams, hospital gift shops and others involved in raising funds for cancer research or to help patients and their families. From that beginning, A Different Twist has grown by making awareness jewelry for other causes as well. Our jewelry is sold nationwide to fundraisers, retail stores and individuals.

After many thousands of bracelets, Kathi stepped down as owner of the business to pursue a career in school guidance counseling.

Beginning in January 2009, Patty Rosencrantz has taken the reigns as the new owner. As the office manager for several years, Patty is familiar with the business and the needs of our special customers. We hope you find the transition a smooth one.

Patty’s background is in graphic design and illustration for the fashion and gift industries. Originally from Connecticut, her career has taken her to New York, Dallas and Seattle before moving to North Carolina almost a decade ago. As a third generation artist, her other creative passions include polymer clay jewelry making and rug hooking. You can see some of her work at www.oneifbyhand.etsy.com

Since 2004, Theresa Caroon has been the Beading Production Manager for A Different Twist. As a professional jewelry designer in her own right, she was a runner up in the 2008 Swarovski® North and South American Create-Your-Style Contest. Having lived in Washington State, Texas and Germany, Theresa now makes her home in North Carolina with her husband and three children. When not beading for A Different Twist, she teaches beading, and creates inspired designs that can be seen on her website www.ladytstudio.com.

Kathi Ellers, the founder, remains a part of the company. As the originator and designer of our jewelry, she now is a consultant, advisor and mentor, and part-time beader. Aside from her husband, two children and schoolwork, her creative skills are applied to fine silver and wire-wrapped jewelry making.