Learn the Art of Jewelry Making, Step-by-Step
From Silver Soldering to Gemstone Setting
I'll Show You How to Create Stunning Jewelry You're Proud to wear - or sell!
I’ve been designing handmade jewelry since 2013, specializing in sterling silver, gemstones, beads, and wire-wrapped creations. From running booths at craft shows to building an online jewelry business, I’ve learned what it takes to create pieces people love and sell them with confidence. At Gemsmith Academy, I bring that experience to you—teaching step-by-step, beginner-friendly techniques inspired by my love of turquoise, silver, and southwestern style. My goal is to help you create jewelry you’re proud of and, if you wanna reach for the stars, build a business doing what you love!
As Seen In:
Hey There! I'm Christie!
With 18 years of experience as a paralegal in family law, estate planning, insurance defense, probate, contracts, and litigation, I’ve seen it all. I earned my paralegal education from Tennessee State University and hold a certification as a patent paralegal. I'm a Middle Tennessee girl who is a proud mom of two amazing adult kids and a happy Mimi.
I've made it my mission to help fellow paralegals and legal assistants upscale their skill set or start their own freedom filled businesses if that's the path they're looking for.
MY APPROACH
Where Legal Know-How Meets Real-Life Coaching
I’ve been in your shoes. After 18 years as a paralegal, I know the pressure, the burnout, and the feeling of wanting more. That’s why I created Modern Legal Academy—to give paralegals and legal professionals a fresh, practical, and supportive way to grow.
Whether you're dreaming of freelancing or just want to feel more confident in your current role, my approach is down-to-earth, real-world tested, and designed with your success (and sanity) in mind. No fluff, no overwhelm—just clear, step-by-step guidance from someone who truly gets it.
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. I’m here to help you take that next step—on your terms.
COURSES
Path 1 - Freelance & Thrive
Path 2 - Grow Your Skills
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Client Testimonials
Jessica M.
Family Law Paralegal
"This course gave me the confidence (and the practical steps!) to finally leave my law firm job and start my own freelance paralegal business. The lessons were clear, easy to follow, and packed with real-world tips. I landed my first client before I even finished the course!"
Mark L.
Litigation Paralegal
"I had no idea where to start with freelancing, but this course broke it all down into simple, doable steps. From setting up my business to finding clients and setting rates — it covered everything. I feel so empowered and excited about my new career path!"
Alyssa R.
Estate Planning Paralegal
"Taking this course was the best investment I've made in my career. I loved how supportive and practical it was — it felt like having a mentor guiding me the whole way. Now I have a steady flow of clients and finally feel in control of my work life."
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