Dropping Gems & Pearls
2023 Salvage & Shine Business Mantra
business mantra eco-conscious business development enterpreneurship overcoming adversity selling authentically

Our Collaboration Began Because of a Heart Shaped Box

During the summer, I met Tom Nardi, of Tom Nardi designs, at a maker's space vendor event in Kingston, NY. The event was going well but, then, it thunder stormed. We all took shelter under our pop up tents. (I was grateful that my umbrella was holding up.) My vendor neighbor, Tom Nardi, was lent a tent where the lining was catching the rain and his tent was starting to sag. We vendors took turns emptying the pools of water that were forming on his tent top. We all rallied together to protect our products (keep them dry!). Draining...
Prototyping Ain't Easy! (My journey making carrot themed wearable art)

I truly enjoy creating custom wearable art pieces; but it can be challenging! Words are symbolic and have different meanings for different people. For me, I always challenge myself to try new design concepts and methods when creating wearable art piece. I enjoy providing an alternative perspective that challenges someone to see or think about things differently. But, when designing new wearable art pieces, you must be mindful of the symbolism behind the words and concept that you feature in your pieces. Create authentically and use designs, colors, and images that have value to you. But, after you create that...
Reflecting on the "Redeemed Necklace and Earrings" Set

Last month, I challenged myself to create a religious themed work of art in honor of Church sponsored event in Kingston, NY. My source of inspiration was the Christian concept of Redemption and being redeemed. Both "redemption" and "redeemed" are powerful words that have 3 stages: a person or object is devalued, debased, or discarded. (You have to experience criticism or hardship before you can experience redemption!...There are no workarounds.) someone or some One admires the potential in the under valued person or object which causes them show interest, respect, love, and appreciation for the undervalued person/object. that act of...
Product Upgrade Alert: Base Metals are now sealed!

As I have been popping up to sell my wearable art pieces. I have been visited by many people who love my pieces but cannot wear them because they have metal allergies. I completely understand.... because I do too. I pains me so much to create such beautiful pieces that I cannot wear. But, now, it is time to fix this! For those who have mild skin allergies, I have found a wax seal that is the most environmentally safe option available to seal the pieces. The sealant product does not harm you or the wearable art piece. This...