From Crafty and Creative to Casual and Classic
I have always crafted as a way to occupy my mind, keep my hands busy, and provide an outlet for my creativity despite being on a fairly standard life path (college, job, promotion, family etc). I never considered myself artistic or creative, and surely didn't call myself an artist or designer, in fact, ALL the 'art' I brought home as a kid is still at my parents' house, and it is tragic. After college, I found myself in New York City, the allure of an "unpaid fashion internship" ran its course and I quickly realized that was not for me. The next few years I colored between the lines and did the things I needed to do to check off these imaginary boxes that should lead to a full life. Something about Manhattan wasn't doing it for me, but I wasn't ready to give up so I gambled on the idea that maybe the view from the other side of the East River might be just what I needed. So I moved across the river to Brooklyn and that was it. After falling in love with Brooklyn I was rediscovering my juju, found community, and was thrown headfirst into a creative wonderland. I was introduced to Burning Man culture, art, creativity, individuality, and a deep sense of connection and community. Needless to say, I found my place within Brooklyn, within Burning Man, and it changed my outlook and view on this life. I began pushing myself outside my comfort zone. I was no longer crafting things alone in my apartment that would never see the light of day. I jumped right in and started making costume pieces for events and never stopped. With each successive event, I improved my skills and honed my eye. After friends would literally buy the pieces right off my person when I was out, I started selling hats and accessories at their insistence. I took the plunge and started selling my 'art' to the rest of the world here on Etsy. Every day, I try to learn more, try something new, and find ways to reuse and repurpose old pieces and materials to limit my contribution to the waste cycle, while also keeping my work unique and often one of a kind. It has been a crazy ride, these 10 years have flown by.
Thanks for being here, I look forward to creating something for you soon!
