What inspired you to go into the craft business; do you still have a day job? I always wanted to have my own business. I used to steal my parents shoes when I was little to play shoe shop and then sell the shoes back to them. Helluva a business model- no overhead! But seriously my big plan was to graduate from art school and move to NYC and become a famous accessories designer overnight! I had all kinds of delusions of grandeur. Lets just say it’s been a very different road. I have been at this game for almost 10 years now and I’m just starting to figure it out. Luckily I’ve been able to make a living at it with no real day job ever.. which I credit to a combination of good luck and stubbornness.
What do you like best, coming up with idea, creating product, or sales? Lets just say I like everything but the sales.. which is the most important part when you are actually trying to make a living!
What has been the major influence in your creative process ? Digital Cameras and Photoshop, without a doubt!
Do you ever need to recharge yourself to inspire you, and how do you go about it? Yes all the time! Running a small business is exhausting; I take walks and do Kundalini yoga every day, it’s the only way I stay sane.
Describe your creative process when designing/making your product line. I usually start with key words and ideas that inspire me and take it from there into the visual realm. I like to think of myself as a curator of vintage imagery as well as a collage artist. It’s all about translating feelings and ideas visually .. Iconic and striking images that people feel connected to are the best sellers always, so naturally I’m always looking to make and collect art that transmit that kind of strong feeling. I have so much fun with it, its truly my favorite part of this business and why I do it.
Have you ever developed a great idea which has wound up on the editing room floor ? Oh tons.. most of my favorite ideas are out of my league when it comes to production. Its a challenge to produce affordable handmade goods in the United States.. I love intricate detail and that always comes with a price!
Are you constantly experimenting with new ideas, or do you stick with what is successful? I used to experiment constantly and that’s truly my great love. I’ve been sticking to what’s successful for a while now though because I finally realized the importance of a strong foundation and system for running things.. I hope to branch out into new accessory territory in 2012, though– I’ve got plans! 11:11 bags are the new frontier, and then shoes – GOLD shoes! Stay tuned..