Some collaborations feel especially meaningful, and designing the ATA Taekwondo jewelry collection has been one of those moments for me.
The story actually started in a very unexpected way.
In the spring of 2024, I hosted a walking food tour in downtown Little Rock with my friend Kevin from The Mighty Rib. Among the guests that day were the CEO of the American Taekwondo Association (ATA) and his wife. During the tour he introduced himself and complimented my grassroots organizing and community work.
Months later, he reached out again — this time inviting me to be a vendor at the HU Lee Classic Taekwondo Tournament, an event that honors the legacy of Grandmaster H.U. Lee and brings together members of the American Taekwondo Association community.
When the opportunity came along, I knew I didn’t just want to bring my existing jewelry designs. I wanted to create something special specifically for the Taekwondo community.
Before beginning the designs, I realized I had a lot to learn. While many people in Little Rock recognize the beautiful ATA headquarters in Riverdale or the iconic gate downtown, I wasn’t deeply familiar with the traditions and symbols of the American Taekwondo Association.
So I did what I often do when starting a new design project — I began researching.
I spent time learning about the history of ATA, the meaning behind its symbols, and the values that are central to Taekwondo practice. That research became an important part of the design process and helped shape the collection in a way that felt respectful and meaningful to the community it was created for.
Because the symbols and traditions of Taekwondo carry deep meaning within the ATA community, it was important that the designs be created with care and accuracy. All of the charms and pendants in the collection are officially licensed by the American Taekwondo Association, incorporating ATA’s intellectual property and symbols that reflect the history and vision established by Grandmaster H.U. Lee. That responsibility made the design process especially meaningful for me.
Over the next few months, I designed a collection of Taekwondo charms and jewelry pieces inspired by the values that martial artists carry with them — discipline, perseverance, and personal growth. My goal was to create meaningful keepsakes that students, instructors, and families could wear as reminders of their Taekwondo journey.
The ATA jewelry collection officially debuted at the HU Lee Classic tournament in December. Seeing students and families connect with the designs was incredibly rewarding.
A portion of proceeds from the collection supports the HU Lee Memorial Foundation, helping continue the legacy and mission of the organization.
The pieces in the ATA Collection were designed as symbols of Taekwondo pride. They’re meant to be worn by anyone who feels connected to the discipline, community, and values of the martial arts — whether you’re a student, instructor, parent, or longtime supporter of ATA. Each charm is a small reminder of the dedication and spirit that bring the Taekwondo community together.
Collaborations like this remind me that you never quite know where a conversation or connection might lead. Hosting community events has always been a big part of Bella Vita, and this experience was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the right people cross your path at just the right time.
Turns out, when you host community events, you never quite know who’s walking beside you.