Laurie makes amazing beaded/wire wrapped jewelery. Please be sure to visit Laurie at Eye Candy Jewelry Designs.
Enjoy the interview!
Q. When did you first start crafting?
A: I have always been involved in crafting. Two years ago, I started creating jewelry as personalized gifts for friends and family. Suddenly, orders started pouring in and Eye Candy Jewelry Designs was born. After I was laid off from the HR industry when the economy took a turn for the worse, I had a chance to start my own business. It’s certainly taken off since then!
Q. Please describe your art in detail. What's your favorite type of crafting/art?
A: I will always be a photographer at heart. That will always be my first love. Fashion is a close second. I try to always present myself as a happy woman with an artistic and elegant style. I use this to build my confidence which in turn helps the artistic juices flow. The happier and more confident I am, the more it shows in my work. I never leave the house without an item from one of my lines. I am often stopped and questioned about my jewelry. Always carry your business cards!
Q. How has your work evolved from your earlier work?
A: I try to sketch as many pieces as I can before I create them. I find that being more organized going into a design helps. Before, I would just sit down in front of a pile of beads and components. Now I have an idea and a theme I try to stick with and the result is a definite flow. I have separate lines that are released at different times of the year. I feel as though I’ve progressed as an artist.
Q. Where do you get your inspiration?
A: My inspiration stems from nature and the beauty that surrounds me every day. I grew up in Miami watching the sea and exploring the Everglades. That led me to my start as a nature photographer. I gave that up to raise a family and never looked back. I’m happier than I’ve ever been.
Q. Where are your products sold (online/stores)?
A: My work can be found online in my etsy shop at Eye Candy Jewelry Designs. In January of this year, I started distributing my work to boutiques and galleries across the country. My lines can be purchased at the following: The Visual Arts Center and Galleries of Punta Gorda, the North Port Art Center, Uptown Girls Boutique in Venice, FL, everything but the girl in Sarasota, FL, Pink Blush Boutique in Miami, FL, Hip Mama Couture in Miami, FL, Neverender Boutique and Gallery in Reno, NV, Mirror Image Salon in Gales Ferry, CT, and Papillon in Punta Gorda, FL, So Sausalito in Punta Gorda, FL, and Funky Utopia in Bradenton, FL. I am currently working with several more shops. Check my blog, Eye Candy Jewelry Blog for updates, specials, and to sign up for my e-newsletter featuring new items to the shop as well as other interesting sites to check out!!
Q. What advice can you give other crafters when selling their items?
A: Go to the library and read all the books you can on Marketing. I learned so much and it helped my business tremendously. Also, always carry a sample case with you. You’ll be surprised how many leads you can pick up in the line at the grocery store!
Q. Describe yourself in three words.
A: Artistic, Driven, Happy
Q. Is there is anything else you'd like to share with us?
A: On top of creating new lines of jewelry, running a hectic household and a business, I am now training for a half marathon I will be running in Miami in January. The only time I sit still is to work on my jewelry! Thank goodness for that! I’m exhausted!
I want to thank Laurie of Eye Candy Jewelry Designs for this interview! I hope you enjoyed it!
1 comment:
What a great interview...I love her work, and good luck with your upcoming Marathon...you go girl!
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