I have been making things for as long as I can remember. I have dabbled in many different media and have been known to go off on a tangent or two. The one constant has been jewelry making which started out as a practical thing, first making things for me to wear, and then as gifts for family and friends for many years. I did this while being a work-at-home mom, working in a "real job" to help pay the bills. As time went on, my job situation changed greatly with technological advances and I began to look for other avenues for work. My husband encouraged me to try to make what I actually love, my "real world" job and in 2011, I opened my shop on Etsy, named Blue Gate Studio.

I love the handmade concept and the people involved in the handmade world. When an item is handmade, a lot of love and attention goes into that item. When you buy something handmade to keep for yourself or to give as a gift, that love goes along with it. There are stories that go into the different pieces that are very personal to the artist. I also like the fact that when you buy homemade, you are directly supporting that artist and contributing to the local economy. And in turn, most of the handmade artists I know also support the handmade industry so it pays itself forward.

I grew up in southern California and have a love of the beach that is hard to describe. It is my favorite place on the planet to be and provides a lot of inspiration for my work. I have a love of nature in general that finds its way into my work as well.

I take great pride in my work and strive to find the best quality materials possible. The leather I use contains no lead or other dangerous chemicals that harm the environment. Most of the beads I buy come from Etsy sellers and other "mom and pop" businesses that contribute to the local economy. I spend a ton of time online searching for unique buttons and other elements that go into my designs. The things I make are made to be worn every day so I take the time to construct items so that they will last through the wear and tear of daily living. They are things that I love to wear and I hope you will as well!