I hope to inspire you today! Anchor a heart with a big anchor necklace or find comfort with hypoallergenic earrings. I’m inspired by every day life, and enjoyment of making something with my hands.

HOW I GOT HERE
As a kid I was drawn to rocks on the beaches of Lake Michigan, especially the Petoskey Stone. My Dad gave us a rock tumbler and then I took a lapidary class. From there, beading just felt natural. At 14 I was making gifts for my family and friends. The turning point for me was when I was laid-off from a professional career as a graphic designer, and soon after became engaged to be married. Searching for wedding decor and lighthouse cookies on Etsy started my enthusiasm for handcrafting again. I had a lot of time to think—and to look back at what I was drawn to all those years as an artist—and what I gravitated towards. Handcrafting jewelry was a great way to get out and meet people and to continue using my design background. As my academic training as an artist and my professional career merged, passion to make beaded jewelry remained. Etsy was my first shop, and I am grateful for this platform.

INSPIRATION
Trips to Europe and boating on the Great Lakes have definitely had an effect on my art—and how I see the world—but growing up in Michigan will always have the most influence. Native American beadwork has influenced many of my ideas for color combinations and artistic style.

PROCESS/MISSION
My artistic process starts with colors and textures I bring together. From there, I work it out in a sketch. Later, a photograph of the first design concept will help me decide if I’m finished, or need to make adjustments. Most of the time, I’m experimenting. The best part of finishing a project with beautiful materials is feeling productive and relevant. I strive to impart exciting jewelry pieces that are fresh and fun. More importantly, quality, functionality, and attention to detail are paramount in my designs. My mission is to create original ideas that are timeless, become cherished heirlooms, and make people smile!

EDUCATION:
I have earned two Associate Degrees in Art, and a Bachelors Degree in Art, with a concentration in Graphic Design and Ceramics. I've always collected stamps, which I believe, had an impact on my professional career path as a Commercial Artist, Graphic Designer, and Surface Pattern Designer.

My Shop is dedicated to my Dad for the amazing boating adventures on the Great Lakes, and to my husband Ron, who masterfully drills holes for the agate stones.