In 2001, while living in Washington, DC, I wandered into a bead store in Dupont Circle, bought a random collection of beads and findings, and grabbed a handy dandy crib sheet. That night, I made my very first pair of simple beaded fish hook dangles and felt like my whole life had been waiting for that moment.

In 2007, I opened my Etsy shop where my designs have gone from basic beading to metal work to incorporating lace and African fabrics as I've tried to develop my own unique voice. Recently, I discovered soutache - an old textile art that combines colorful woven, flat thread with beads. This process allows me to create bold, colorful, beaded beauties that are functional enough to wear everyday, while keeping your style as independent as you are.