I began making my own jewelry because I could never find exactly what I wanted in retail shops. Whenever I wore my creations friends, family and co-workers would always ask me where I bought my jewelry. When I told them I made it they started to ask if they could buy some.
Elisa Monique
Random Facts About You?1. I love shoes. I've accumulated about 100 pairs in the past 10 years - and yes, they're all in great condition!
2. I am a hobby photographer and in addition to selling jewelry in France I recently spent 2 months photographing Paris on film with my Minolta x-700.
3. Snoopy and Woodstock, my favourite Peanuts Gang members, hold a very special place in my heart.
4. I never say no to strawberry chocolate mousse cake.
What got you started crafting?
I began making my own jewelry because I could never find exactly what I wanted in retail shops. Whenever I wore my creations friends, family and co-workers would always ask me where I bought my jewelry. When I told them I made it they started to ask if they could buy some.
What is your source of inspiration?
My current source of inspiration is the sky. As a hobby photographer I find that I'm always photographing the beauty of the sky and I wanted to be able to incorporate that into my work. As a result I began thinking of how I could capture a little pieces of heaven that could be kept at all times.
What have you made recently?
I've recently made the 'Treasure Collection' which is an assortment of wire wrapped keepsakes that represent all of the treasures we can find when we lift our eyes upwards. The collection is based on the idea that we are all dreamers who have the capability to achieve anything we set our hearts to. With that philosophy in mind, all of my necklaces are finished off with a antiqued silver feather charm on the clasp.
Where do you sell your crafts presently?
After initially selling my work to family, friends and colleagues I was able to obtain new clients by word of mouth. With the desire to increase my client base without wholesaling or doing craft shows I've recently joined the amazing community on Etsy to get exposure in an online market.
Why are handmade crafts important to you?
There are so many talented Artisans who create beautiful and innovative things. I think it is extremely important to support our fellow artisans by putting dollars back into their pockets. The quality of work that many artisans produce rivals the products of big box retailers for only a fraction of the cost. There are a lot of great retailers in the market but I think we need to shake the perception that buying from an established retail shop is better than an artisans handmade work.
Find Me
LocationToronto & Paris
Email Address
Elisa Monique
Personal Website
http://www.bel-esprit.net
Store Website
http://www.etsy.com/shop/modernwoman
BEL1511 = 15% off. It is not formally published but it is an active code that can be used by your readership until March 15, 2011
