HeidiNilsenDesigns

I come from a family of artists. Perhaps not at a professional level, but talented artists nonetheless. My mother was a musician (piano and violin) and my father painted beautiful Rosemaling designs (his Norwegian heritage) on any wooden surfaces available. One sister a painter of many mediums and another sister who could rival Martha Stewart on the home decor front. And me: photography (still enjoy) and jewelry making (absolutely love, passion found).

Santa Cruz, California is a mecca for artists of all types. I feel fortunate to have "landed" here after moving around the country. No, wasn't in an army family, just loved to experience new places, new people, new jobs. Working in the hospitality industry enabled me to do this. I managed restaurants and worked with catering teams for major hotels, most notable, the Hilton International that used to be in the Word Trade Center. Still get shivers.

Although growing up in New Jersey, California always called to me. And now it's been my home for over 25 years. The natural beauty of the Santa Cruz Monterey Bay area is unbelievable. It inspires me at every turn to create. Create anything and everything: joy, peace, food, jewelry, a business.

Heidi Nilsen Designs was created after making a few gemstone wrap bracelets for some surfer friends (my Amigas!) and I soon got flooded with requests. It's still not uncommon for someone to drop by my home studio to go through my materials and design a piece together (sometimes wine is involved, which makes it all the more fun).

Over the years my work has evolved. I particularly love to design pieces that include pearls, leather, and semi-precious gemstones such as tourmaline and moonstone. My handmade jewelry is still in keeping with a simple clean style with a little boho thrown in depending on the piece. A like variety and find beauty in a lot of styles, what can I say!

If you like my work, please favorite away! I'd so appreciate.

Many thanks for checking out Heidi Nilsen Designs.
Heidi