I got my start in business after deciding to stay at home full time with my two small children. Not sure if I wanted to return to my previous field of work after a few years at home, I decided this was as good a time as any to chase some creative interests I had all my life. So while I spent my days playing with the kids, I spent my nights developing a new business. The idea for my first product came during a trip home to visit my parents in the summer of 2004. My mom was selling her decades old collection of Sea Glass in a Yard Sale. One look at her collection and an idea was born. Fortunately for me, she happily parted with the whole lot. With the purchase of some basic tools and a few dozen rolls of wire, I had my first product line Shoreline Trinkets. A line of Sterling Wire Jewelry.
In 2006 my sister and I worked together to build my website. I see my website as my first store, and as such I am there everyday, answering emails, updating products and information. A year and a half later I opened a Studio near my home which I open in the Summer. I work between home the Studio, a balancing act between family and work that is never quite easy, but somehow works for me.
My interests are varied as it's the act of working with my hands that most inspires me. Drawing was a very early favorite activity of mine, it has been with me in each and every endeavor, from sketching jewelry designs and designing bags. I am drawn to that relationship between what folks see as Art and what they refer to as Craft. Intending to find a synergy between the two, I hope my products become a sort of functional art, everyday items that allow us to stand out in a crowd. The accessories of a life with style!
During the Winter of 2009 I began to work on ideas for a second product. If all I made was Jewelry then I guess I'd be a 'jewelry designer'...so must make more accessories! When I'm looking for ideas I always turn to my sketchbook. Doodles have been a part of my life for as long I can remember. A creative outlet easily carried from place to place. A single piece of paper and a single pencil or pen and creativity can flow. Not entirely confident in my drawing or painting ability on their own I combined the two. Having taught myself to quilt some years ago and currently making shoulder bags out of fabric, I thought 'why couldn't I paint and draw on a bag?'. Then the inevitable question, what fabric could I paint and draw on? Canvas of course. Could I sew canvas into a bag. Turns out...yup!! And Freehand Baggage, my line of Hand Painted Bags was born. Functional Art. Fun and Funky...for a variety of settings and age ranges.
I'm always working on my next project, looking for that next idea that will become a product, from hand printed fabric, to home decor items that are fun and functional. I thrive on ideas. As I look to the future I want to develop products that others consider 'eco friendly' as well. That may include using reclaimed wood, organic cotton and recycling.
You can reach me at amaritimegirl@yahoo.ca and info@amaritimegirl.ca
