I love creating something and then seeing it on a baby or toddler. I get such a joy when my customers send me pictures of their kids wrapped in my blankets or wearing one of my pacifier bibs! I never get tired of it… it makes me feel special and honored.
I’m just thankful that I get to do something I love and be able to spend time with my son… afterall, he is my inspiration… my original NotyBaby.
Maria Louie
Random Facts About You?1) I'm the youngest of 4 daughters and all our first names are "Maria"
2) I function best on Coffee Bean
3) I cry watching Disney movies
4) Coffee Bean, chocolates & Sprinkles cupcakes from my hubby are sometimes better than flowers!
What got you started crafting?
When I found out I was pregnant, my nesting urges kicked in... but I couldn't find a lot of stuff for boys that I liked. Everything was either sports themed or had a duck or bear on it! With the help of another pregnant friend, I rediscovered my sewing skills from 6th grade and started shopping for fabrics that I liked. So, I would look at things at the mall and think, "I could make that" then tried to figure out how.
My friends and family started asking me to make them stuff for their kids and as gifts and my NotyBaby business was created.
What is your source of inspiration?
My son is my main inspiration. He inspired me to create my business and inspires me everyday to create something fun & useful. Other moms also provide me with ideas and I also let the fabric dictate what I will make. A lot of times I don't know what I'm gonna make until I go fabric shopping and let the fabrics speak to me!
What have you made recently?
I had just finished a custom blanket for a special mom and her newborn son. Her daughter actually picked out the fabrics from my shop because she wanted her little brother to have something special. When they received it the she whispered to her little brother that brothers & sisters always share! I thought that was really sweet!
Right now I'm working on a special blanket for another mom whose son is turning one and she wanted a blanket to honor her husband who is a US Marine... so I made a minky blanket inspired with the US Marines colors: camo, red & gold. It's turning out pretty good & I am truly honored to make it for them.
I also just started making changing mats to add to my product line... it's a new product for me and I haven't even had the chance to take pictures of my work yet.
Where do you sell your crafts presently?
I have an Etsy shop and a Facebook page on which I promote my products. I also started doing a few craft shows in my area during the holidays.
Why are handmade crafts important to you?
I think handmade is more unique. There's something so special with a blanket that a person made especially for your baby than one that is massed produced and sold by the thousands. There's more care put in to making a handmade item... it's just like when fashion designers make a couture dress, people regard is quality & special. That's handmade!
Find Me
LocationOrange County, CA
Email Address
Maria Louie
Personal Website
http://www.notybaby.etsy.com
10PROMO
@notybaby
http://www.facebook.com/notybaby
