Maine Maker Monday | Selina Chan | Tealight Studios

What’s your business name and what do you do?

Tealight Studios. I'm an artist that makes bows and bandanas for pets, as well as dog-inspired art on stationery/home goods. Everything I make centers around dogs and dog lovers!

How did you learn your craft?

I've been painting and drawing for as long as I can remember! I've also been a dog lover my whole life, but never have been able to have one myself. I was going through an artist's block during college and decided to switch from fine art to crafting bows-- which is something that I was always known for wearing in my hair. I thought why not make ones for dogs that are more tasteful and modern. I was tired of seeing low quality and outdated pet accessories. From there, I've expanded into other accessories for humans too.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Meeting all the dogs! (and the humans too) I love being able to make so many connections at different events I participate in- whether it be customers or fellow small business owners. I've seen Maine's art scene change so much, especially after the pandemic, and I really enjoy sharing everything I've seen and learned through the years with entrepreneurs just starting out. I also love having the opportunity to meet established small business owners who have a wealth of knowledge and I admire tremendously.

What do you enjoy least?

The accounting and finance side of business... It's mentally and physically exhausting, especially when this has become my full-time job. There's a lot of pressure since I don't have a bi-weekly paycheck anymore, so I have to make sure I'm bringing in the income, budget for the business, keep track of transactions, etc.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

It's very time consuming! I make all of the bows individually by hand (i.e. cut strips of velcro, print/cut my labels, cut/iron fabric). My mom sews all of the bandanas starting from measuring and cutting out each piece.

What’s one artist you look up to?

It's impossible to choose just one! There are so many artists out there that I admire. From traditional fine artists in the past to modern artists/entrepreneurs who have so many different art styles and utilize various mediums. However, I can say that the basis of my original love for art came from Impressionism/Realism artists (like Claude Monet and Andrew Wyeth). While most of my current inspirations and people I admire are from 1000+ illustrators on Instagram. It's not easy being a content creator AND running your own business.

What do you do when you’re not making accessories?

I'm a workaholic... If I'm not physically producing product, I'm researching and finding other ways to grow my business. There's always something to keep me busy!

Night owl or early bird?

I'm somewhere in between! I like sleeping in when I can, but also don't mind waking up early.

What's your favorite place in Maine?

I don't have a specific place, but I do love pretty much anywhere along the Midcoast! Most of my favorite restaurants, cafes, hiking trails, and shops are between Wiscasset and Belfast. It'd be a dream to have a house there in the future.

Maine Maker Monday | Courtney Andrews | Scribbles and Doodlez

What’s your business name and what do you do?

My business name is Scribbles and Doodlez and I am a watercolor artist specializing in creating stationery products.

How did you learn your craft?

I actually am a self taught artist. I was always into the arts growing up whether it be dance, photography, singing, etc. I had my tonsils removed as an adult and the recovery was insane. I was super bored and made my mom pick me up a watercolor paint set and just started painting.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

One of my favorite things about Scribs is fostering connections with other creatives in the area, and fostering relationships with all the stores I sell my products too. I love bouncing ideas of each other, sharing what works and what doesn't work for me, and I love helping out new creatives with getting into stores, markets, etc. It's a really tough scene to break into and I truly believe there is room for everyone. The art community at times has truly saved my life when I have been in extremely dark places, and the friendships I have made are lifelong.

What do you enjoy least?

One of my least favorite things is admin work and actual business stuff which is funny because I am running a business. I work full time, on top of running Scribs so any accounting, administrative work, website updates, and stuff like that is my least favorite thing to do. I just want to paint and make cool art!

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

I wish people understood how much time goes into creating a single design. It's often misunderstood that since I outsource the creations of my products to companies my craft is easy. I spend hours coming up with my designs, sketching various versions, painting them multiple times because watercolor is very finicky and the editing of designs takes HOURS. It's not just a one and done thing, and a lot of the time it takes many many tries to create something I truly like.

What’s one artist you look up to?

An artist I look up to and one that actually helped me get scribs off the ground is a local Maine artist named Wild slice. She approached the store I worked at to start selling her stickers back in 2017-2018. It was so inspiring seeing a local mainer, do something like that. She was super nice in helping me and telling me where she ordered her stickers from and it was a huge inspiration for me to start doing my own designs. In 2019 after a birthday trip to Europe I got scribs off the ground after thinking to myself, holy crap I can do that too!

What do you do when you’re not making art?

When I am not doing artwork I am working my other job, dancing ballet and tap, or working out at orange theory. I also love listening to true crime podcasts and I am always watching spooky movies when I am either working or not working.

Night owl or early bird?

I am def a night owl. I have pretty bad anxiety, which tends to get most bad at night that contributes to my insomnia. I try to listen to podcast, or read reddit to help me fall asleep, and lately I've really been into a rain soundtrack on spotify its been super relaxing.

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Gosh so many amazing places in Maine it's hard to choose. Honestly back in 2020 I went to downeast Maine for the first time and fell in love with that whole region. My favorite place up there is Cutler coast. It's one of my favorite hikes I've ever been on and I dream of it every summer. I'm excited to do a market up there this summer and mix some hiking in with my trip :)

Maine Maker Monday | Gabrielle Stratmann | Bug-Eyed Co.

What’s your business name and what do you do?

Bug-Eyed Co. I create "good-natured" crafting kits and art. I also run Fete Market and Events hosting makers markets all over Portland and Biddeford, cultivating creative community, and empowering entrepreneurs through resources and classes. I also have a small passion project creating funky acrylic jewelry through my biz Sour Flower!

How did you learn your craft?

Creativity runs deep in my family. I grew up around strong women creating everything from my halloween costumes, socks, large scale abstract paintings, dance, ceramics, and more. I love to create with a variety of media from paint to fibers to ceramics. I started with primarily Illustration, participating in numerous college programs and practicing endlessly. Now I follow wherever my interests lead me and learn mostly through a process of trial, error, and repetition. 

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I love the process of idea conception to a finished product. I create Embroidery Kits and Felting Kits from scratch, coming up with the design, pattern, and guide booklets for each one. For ceramics I love that I can create products with utility and art. Extra points for sneaking in a pun or quirky bit of humor like my ceramic "fish dishes."

What do you enjoy least?

Paperwork, math, spreadsheets...I know what I am good at and these things are not it. 

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

Because I create in such a large variety of media people often assume that maybe I am not the only one making it...but nope! It's all me! I love bridging the gaps of art, product, media, and business. I think some people believe that true "art" can not be business, and I think creative careers are what make this world beautiful and interesting.

What’s one artist you look up to?

Lorien Stern is one of my biggest inspirations in art and business. She has created a whole world populated with a variety of products that range in media and use. Everything she makes is instantly identifiable as her own, yet she freely experiments and creates. 

What do you do when you’re not making art?

Probably making more art. Or dreaming of business ideas. Or gardening with my puppy digging in the dirt next to me while I worry about whether my flower seedlings are going to make it.

Night owl or early bird?

Neither...I have one mode: awake and busy or asleep. Although Early Bird because I am obsessed with coffee.

What's your favorite place in Maine?

I love the Mount Battie hike in Camden, Maine. Smalls here in Portland. And Mill Pond Ceramics, where I do all of my ceramic work in Biddeford!

Maine Maker Monday | Ashley Page

What’s your business name and what do you do?

While I don’t have an official business name, I think being an artist is a lot like running your own business. You have clients, collaborators, partners, projects and you have to market yourself, build a brand, etc. I’m an interdisciplinary artist working in sculpture and textiles. My practice is a vessel to present diverse representation and visibility to the African American image, intellect, and spirit. Merging traditional textile/fiber techniques with sculptural sensibilities and applications, my work reinterprets abstract portraiture. My objects are a hybridization of traditional craft processes and spatial practice to reinterpret the human body and explore various modes of portraiture. 

How did you learn your craft?

My creative background is pretty broad, but I certainly credit my teachers, mentors and professors who demonstrated what being an artist is. I went through a formal arts education, having obtained my BFA from Maine College of Art & Design, which definitely formed the base of my work today. I also participated in a 7-month mentor and apprentice program through Maine Craft Association and had the privilege of working with the incredible artist and person, Lissa Hunter who really helped me create a philosophy of making and establish what a sustainable studio practice looks like for me personally. During that time, I also did a micro residency with master papermaker, Mary Hark who gave me the space to play, while also instilling an emphasis on the importance of consistency in making and attention to detail. 

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

The thing I enjoy most about being an artist or a maker is that I am able to use artmaking as a mode of connecting. I love to teach, so using artmaking as a way to connect with people is so fulfilling in the sense that it allows me to learn about my community and learn more about myself in the process. But overall, I just love bearing witness to the different ways people use art and creative outlets to tell their stories and use it as a vehicle for change, for awareness, for visibility and representation. 

What do you enjoy least?

Re-organizing or cleaning my studio post-exhibition, haha. In the month(s) that work is out of my studio, I usually spend that time working on other pieces and filling my space back up, so when the work comes back, it can feel a little overwhelming. 

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

How much time it takes to finish an artwork. Depending on the project, I can physically make something fairly quickly, but it takes me a much longer time to feel like I’ve finished a piece. I like to spend time with my work and sometimes it will take me weeks or months to fully solve a piece. 

What’s one artist you look up to?

It’s sooo hard to narrow it down to one, but I find the work of Simone Leigh, Vanessa German, Audre Lorde, Rina Banerjee, Octavia Butler, and Wangechi Mutu to be really aspirational and deeply moving and inspiring. 

What do you do when you’re not creating art?

I work full time at a non-profit organization called Indigo Arts Alliance, where I serve as their Studio and Programs Manager. 

Night owl or early bird?

Night owl for sure. 

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Again, hard to narrow down to one, but in terms of sites Mackworth Island is high on the list. 

Maine Maker Monday | Mia Gezik | Good Stock

What’s your business name and what do you do?

My business name is Good Stock - like you come from good stock, duh! I create custom fit & hand-welded jewelry, aka permanent jewelry. 

How did you learn your craft?

I come from a family of entrepreneurs & welders! Not kidding, both my dad and my brother are welders. So when I decided I wanted to jump into the permanent jewelry industry, I bought the welder and my brother drove up from Connecticut to teach me how to use it. The rest is history! 

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

There are so many aspects that I enjoy about Good Stock. I love that I am able to create things with my hands that make people happy. I love that I am able to connect with different people at every event. Getting to interact and listen to everyone's stories is my favorite. I have the freedom to create my schedule around my family's needs, which is very important to me. I love getting to stay home with my 2.5 year old daughter while also showing her that it's good for mom to work! 

What do you enjoy least?

My least favorite aspect of owning my own business is keeping up with social media! Sorry guys, it's my least favorite part of the job by a long shot, but that's ok! I'm a work in progress. 

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

I think I wish people understood the amount of time it has taken me to curate Good Stock. It's very important to me that the quality and the experience align. It takes me months of testing chains/charms before they make their big debuts! I am constantly researching, hand making/customizing my event props, drawing new sticker designs, filling care bags, connecting and collaborating with local businesses, you name it, I do it! I have a constant scroll of ideas in my brain, which is truly a blessing and a curse for me. 

What’s one artist you look up to?

Wow, that's a tough question!! These days I've been digging the artist Brian Gilson @freefilth on Instagram. Very Gonzo-esque and weird, and makes me feel nostalgic/reminds me of my highschool era when I loved Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and wore a studded belt. 

What do you do when you’re not making jewelry?

When I'm not making jewelry I like to do house projects and yard/garden projects. I love trying new bakeries, as I am an equal opportunist when it comes to pastries. I love spending time with my little family and our friends. I love helping everyone with their ideas and projects too! 

Night owl or early bird?

I've always been a morning person, but I need an hour and a coffee before my brain works. I like to be in bed before 9, thanks. 

What's your favorite place in Maine?

My favorite place in Maine?! That's easy, I love being home with my Hallie girl, my husband, our 2 cats and 4 chickens. Butttt my favorite restaurant is Crispy Gai, they do no wrong. Just grab me a Same Same But Different and a chicken sandwich, and I'm happy! 

Maine Maker Monday | Elaine Kinney | White Pine Bath & Brew

What’s your business name and what do you do?

White Pine Bath & Brew is my business where I turn Maine craft beers into luxury, vegan beer soaps. There are amino acids in hops which soothe skin irritation, and there is biotin, pantothenic acid, and a number of other essential vitamins in brewer's yeast. Beer also creates a more luxurious lather. By turning beer into soap, I found a great little niche that really speaks to Mainers specifically while also bringing those unique benefits to the soap making craft. I've begun to shift how I source my beer recently to come more and more from brewery production waste. My goal is to eventually source all of my beer from this excess to boost my sustainability.

How did you learn your craft?

I learned to make soap in a crockpot in my friend's kitchen. I was struggling with burn out in my career of social service/special education work, so I saw entrepreneurship as the path to a new life. My friend had started her own beer soap business a while back but was moving on to new projects. When she offered to teach me hot process soaping, I took her up on it. Hot process is one of the less common methods of making soap because the process can be a little volatile if you don't know what you are doing. You can make a small batch of about 10 bar soaps in a standard crockpot. I soap at a much larger scale now, but thrift store crockpots is where it all began. It feels a lot like baking, so there is a certain coziness to the process - especially during the winter months.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I think I am the exception here, but I LOVE admin work. My favorite work is executing all the behind the scenes of business: building out a website, monitoring analytics, pitching the press, email marketing, looking at numbers, and scheduling my week. I love a good spreadsheet. I love a pile of data. I make fabulous soap--don't get me wrong--but I live for the nerdy stuff. I still have a lot to learn in that department, but it feels really empowering to dig into the crunchy side of business. Understanding that side of business is how I will really know what is working and how I can expand; numbers don't lie and they aren't up for interpretation. It just scratches a different itch. Taxes are my one exception. Taxes are the worst.

What do you enjoy least?

Working with lye is tough. Soapmaking would be so much easier if I didn't have to be so careful about that aspect of it. However, the caustic nature of lye forces me to be meticulous about safe handling practices. There's a bit of a misconception out there that modern soap no longer requires lye to make. Unfortunately, lye is absolutely a requirement for the chemical reaction (saponification) that produces soap. Soap made without lye is a chemical impossibility. What people think of as liquid 'soap' is actually a detergent. So I use a lot of PPE and ventilation and just deal with the necessity of it.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

This is not just for soapmaking but for small business in general. I wish customers knew how impactful they are and what a difference they are making. Small businesses usually can't compete with the prices of massive companies because of the scale at which they operate. When I tell customers 'thank you', they don't realize what a deep place that comes from. I really do get excited when I get a new order. I really do know my return customers by name, especially the ones who have been with me for years and show up to all my pop-ups. It is a huge risk to work for yourself, but I do it because it gives me a joy that I never experienced in other lines of work. It sounds corny, but starting a small business really did help me find myself. My customers make it possible for me to have my dream job. I don't get the Sunday scaries anymore, and I don't dread the work week. My customers gave me that. I think if people truly wrapped their head around that, the ripple effect would be tremendous in terms of support for small businesses in general.

What’s one artist you look up to?

I am inspired by Hilary Crowell at The Cultivated Thread. Her weaving is such a unique, fascinating process that you just don't see anymore. I love when small businesses work to preserve old trades the way they were originally performed. I admire the quality and attention to detail that clearly goes into everything she makes. She has really made a success out of her business too. It is inspiring to see people that are ahead of me in the process, because it reminds me that people really can 'make it' doing what they love instead of being trapped in a corporate nine to five job.

What do you do when you’re not making?

I play games with friends, and I try to stay physically active. I'm actually a big video game nerd...still trying to get over the heartbreak in Baldur's Gate 3. My husband and I are in a regular Dungeons and Dragons group and do a lot of tabletop games with the same crowd. We are all huge foodies, so we usually spend our weekends experimenting with new cooking ideas and gaming together. In my solo time, I enjoy fitness and finding new ways to move. I mostly split my time between weight lifting and running, whatever feels good really. I am excited to take swimming lessons soon because all I ever learned was the doggy paddle. 🙃

Night owl or early bird?

My husband will call me a liar, but I'm an early bird all the way! I'm not amazing at getting up super early, but I far prefer that to staying up late. The mornings are when I feel unstoppable.

What's your favorite place in Maine?

This is so boring but I'm very introverted, so my favorite place is my house. It's nothing fancy, but we've made it our little sanctuary and I love being home. Outside of that, I love Knightville in South Portland. It's the heart of the town, and so many cool shops and restaurants have popped up there in the past couple of years. You can get everything you need for a fun day on that one strip: local foods, beer, coffee, massage, flowers, antiques, gifts. All the shop owners know each other, and it's a great little community to be a part of.

Maine Maker Monday | Sarah Cronin | Rustic Arrow

What’s your business name and what do you do?

Rustic Arrow is a carefully curated lifestyle shop featuring contemporary & boho clothing, unique baby brands, jewelry, plants, crystals and gifts. We support local makers, female owned and fair trade companies and brands that give back. We are constantly motivated to bring in products that bring joy and cultivate comfort and peace.

How did you learn your craft?

I have always had an entrepreneurial spirit and I come from a family of small business owners. I worked in retail on and off since I was old enough to work but after college I worked in International Management & Consulting. When I moved to Maine 20 years ago and started a family, I took off the corporate hat and started to invent ways to make it possible to stay at home with my kids. After consulting for several business & retail based organizations, to open my own business.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I love the freedom to be creative. I love walking into my store and making the decision to repaint a wall or remerchandise the windows. I love decorating and I love to hear peoples' reaction to the space and the products.

What do you enjoy least?

Projecting sales for January, February & March!

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

That owning a business is not a full time job. It is a lifestyle. It is something that you & your family have to be fully invested in or it won't work. I feel like owning a small business in Maine is a commitment to the community. If you do it right, you have customers who become friends and friends who become advocates who become partners. I feel very lucky to be part of a supportive community.

What’s one artist you look up to?

Local - Sue Worthing, Owner of Jubilee Beads

What do you do when you’re not creating?

Travel & garden

Night owl or early bird?

Night Owl, please don't call before I've had my morning coffee!

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Wolfes Neck State Park. When I am there, I am always reminded how lucky I am to have landed in Freeport.

Maine Maker Monday | Claire Reynes | Tempered East

What’s your business name and what do you do?

My business, Tempered East, is a marbling studio where I create marbled wares, I teach educational workshops and classes on the art of marbling, and I offer custom marbled design services for businesses and individuals. Marbling is the art process of floating paints on a liquid surface, creating a design as they float, and transferring the design onto another surface like a sheet of paper or a piece of fabric.

How did you learn your craft?

I studied abroad in Italy during my junior year of college and took a papermaking and book arts class. I really fell in love with papermaking and still create art with paper but we had one or two days of marbling. It stuck with me until a few years later and asked my art mentor to teach me how to prepare the materials so that I could practice the technique. Since then I’ve learned so much just by doing it over and over so I would say I’m mostly taught by the craft itself!

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

My biggest joy is sharing this art form with others. I love being at an art market, doing a live marbling demonstration, and pulling the hat or piece of paper out of the vat - it’s the moment when the design has transferred from the liquid surface to the solid surface. People watching are always in shock and at least one person will exclaim “Oh it’s magic!” That is my favorite. I really love teaching workshops and guiding people through the marbling process so that they too can create their own magic.

What do you enjoy least?

There are so many supplies involved! I don’t love lugging all the materials and products around to markets. I love being at markets but the packing and setting up and breaking down is pretty tiring. I wish I could snap my fingers and have my stuff show up anywhere I wanted all ready to go.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

I do a lot of different things and it’s hard to know what to share and how to share it all. Marbling is a huge part of my work but there are so many other parts that I love too. I make handmade paper and paper artwork and I’m working to incorporate that more into my work and offerings this year.

What’s one artist you look up to?

I’m going to cheat and name 2 artists. Gustav Klimt will always be one of my favorites but I think specifically because of his use of pattern and repetition. I can see how that influence comes up in my work, especially marbling because it is a lot of pattern and repetition. A contemporary artist that I look up to is Alexis Nunnelly. She makes paintings centering around the female form and there is such a vibrancy and energy to her work. It is infused with mythology, which I think is an overlap between her and Klimt that I’m obsessed with. Above all else though, her use of color is incredibly inspirational to me. Making colors is my favorite part of the marbling process.

What do you do when you’re not making art?

I am a nanny a couple of days a week so I’m spending lots of time with a toddler, which is so fun and I think keeps me grounded. I firmly believe that all humans need to play on a daily basis and so being a nanny holds me to that I think. So I’m playing a lot and my favorite way to do that is in nature - going for walks through the forest and picking up cool leaves or pointing at mushrooms or going to the beach at low tide to hunt for starfish. Even when I’m not on nanny duty I’m trying to explore the natural world - going hiking or kayaking. And when I’m at home I love to cook and just rest from all the creating and playing :)

Night owl or early bird?

Neither? Haha I sleep way too much! I’m working on being an early bird though.

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Vinalhaven. I haven’t been back since before I moved to Maine but I think because I didn’t live here yet it was my first introduction to the mystique of this place. Taking a longer ferry ride and then walking around the island - there was this heavy fog and everything was so beautifully eerie and quiet. I climbed around the rocks and looked into all the tide pools and was just in awe of every little gem and jewel. I think any of the islands would get the same reaction from me. I love an island :)

Maine Maker Monday | Maddy Vibrantone | Sidle House

What’s your business name and what do you do?

I started Sidle House in our almost 100-year-old barn in Freeport last summer. The original spark of this idea came while visiting art markets, galleries, and Georgia O'Keeffe's Abiquiu home near Santa Fe back in the early 2000's. I hosted my first contemporary art exhibition here in July/August. The second exhibition was a selection of small new works by 22 artists in December/January. The current show, ‘Glimmer’ features 4 artists and will be on view through March 17. I'm in the process of planning exhibitions through 2026 now.

How did you learn your craft?

I didn’t! But I’ve always been a creative person. I studied violin performance in undergrad (then business in grad school), and have always enjoyed art and artists in all mediums.

As long as I’ve inhabited rooms, starting with my childhood bedroom - I’ve been *kinda* curating; moving furniture, selecting posters and pictures, making collages, displaying knick knacks and found objects. Beautifying and personalizing the spaces we inhabit is fundamental to well-being, I believe. I really enjoy creating my own spaces, so I bring this awareness into my current endeavor. I am very much learning on the job now! Hannah Berta (the phenomenal Rockport artist) helped me install the current exhibition and I learned a lot from her in the process. Other gallerists have been generous in sharing their tips and experiences as well.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

1. Studio visits, getting to know artists, and learning about their creative process. It was the idea of working with artists that first sparked my interest in becoming a gallerist/representative those many years ago. I am having a lot of fun with this!

2. The creative process of putting a show together; from the initial exhibition concept, to getting an intuitive nudge about artists I hope to include, to finally selecting pieces and curating the exhibition itself. I become genuinely giddy when I find the right spot on the right section of wall - seeing pieces interact with each other and experiencing an exhibition come to life.

What do you enjoy least?

Worrying about what success looks like as a business owner. I am actively attempting to unlearn 50+ years of capitalist/consumerist indoctrination just from growing up in American society and reinforced through years of work experience. Although there’s a lot of that learning which has served me well and which I also hope to utilize to promote and support the creative people I serve - unplugging from the idea that sales is the only measure of inherent value is tricky! I’m attempting to balance this with bringing a more appreciative market to contemporary art. We must support artists. Our collective humanity depends upon people who dare to create art, insight, empathy - and share it with others. So, while I don’t always enjoy the inherent tension between art and commerce, I feel it’s an important awareness. Ultimately I think it's my job to take this on so that (hopefully) the artists I work with have more freedom to create.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

Art is for everybody. I want the exhibitions and my space to feel widely exciting, inclusive and welcoming. When I was younger, I used to believe I shouldn’t go into a gallery without particular knowledge about art, or enough financial resources to purchase some. It’s taken me time and wisdom to realize that if I enjoy experiencing art, I’m allowed in the space! I don’t have to be able to articulate why I like something, and I don’t necessarily have to acquire it for myself. I can stand there and be moved by art. I can enjoy the simple act of appreciation. Anyone can.

What’s one artist you look up to?

It’s impossible to answer this question! As a new gallerist my world is currently exploding with awareness of contemporary visual artists. I find myself moved by the people who honor their own creative practice. In a world that is constantly speeding up with a bazillion cries for our attention - it takes commitment and focus to make one’s art. I look up to anyone who is doing that, and seek to honor my own internal muse in similar ways.

What do you do when you’re not at the gallery?

I love to visit other galleries, museums and artist studios. I also enjoy concerts and theatre. Traveling (including around Maine) is something I enjoy and hope to do a lot more of. My daughter is a student in New York and I enjoy our urban adventures together there. Living on an old farm and visiting the city regularly strikes a perfect balance for me.

Night owl or early bird?

I can be either, but will choose night owl because I really do enjoy a good lie-in in the mornings, especially now that my nest is empty.

What's your favorite place in Maine?

It’s pretty great to have returned to Maine after having lived in other parts of the U.S. for 18 years. We chose Freeport (in part) for easier access to the midcoast region. But we enjoy “playing tourist” all over the state. Probably Deer Isle is my current favorite - but I have a hankering to hike the Cutler Bold Coast trail and have a feeling it’ll deliver the quiet, unkempt beauty I love about Maine.

Maine Maker Monday | Hannah Josselyn | Reverie Coffeehouse

What’s your business name and what do you do?

Reverie Coffeehouse - we serve locally roasted coffee & baked good and have a market space where we sell local artist products!

How did you learn your craft?

I dont have much of a coffee background, I was a barista for about a year but I just fell deeply in love with coffee & the culture! I loved how coffee can bring people together whether its friends meeting up for the first time in awhile, or strangers meeting up or someone getting lost in a book. I felt like when you enter a coffee shop the outside world stands still and you can relax & escape for alittle!

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I really enjoy the people I meet & the smell of the coffee first thing in the morning! I really enjoy seeing everyone that comes in. Most of the time people are starting their day at our coffee shop so it's really important to us that they start off on the right foot so that they can continue that positive energy to others throughout their day. So we really try to greet everyone with a smile and ask how they are before we take their order! The human connection means alot to us while also giving them a good cup of coffee!

What do you enjoy least?

If I had to choose something I would say having to get up early at 5:30 is sometimes hard! Our place is on the smaller side so I will say that it's tough sometimes when a great of people come in and there is nowhere to sit!

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

Just like all other small business owners whether we own a shop and have specific hours, or do art or create things, there is no time off! You are usually working at home late into the night and up early doing things. Its not like a normal 9 to 5 where you clock in and out. You have to show up for yourself and your business. I will say it is the most exhausting, rewarding thing I have ever done! I am beyond tired but at the end of my day Im energized and fulfilled!

Night owl or early bird?

Night Owl!

What's your favorite place in Maine?

That's a tough one! I would have to say Bintliffs Corner Brew in Gardiner! It is a coffee shop/European style cafe. The food is amazing, the coffee is divine and the aesthetic and vibe is cozy and inviting! I really enjoy making the 30 minute drive to hang out for awhile!

Maine Maker Monday | Amanda Breazeale | Seabird Aromatics

What’s your business name and what do you do?

Seabird Aromatics. I am an Aromatherapist and product formulator.

How did you learn your craft?

I originally got into Aromatherapy from a mental health standpoint. I wanted to treat my anxiety and stress holistically and so I began learning about plant medicine and the power it holds. After a few years working with essential oils completely self-taught I decided to take the steps to become professionally certified in the craft and am now a certified Clinical Aromatherapist.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Helping people live a better life and getting to teach my community about what Aromatherapy truly is. Now more than ever, integrative and natural approaches to heal mentally and physically are coming to the forefront of medicine and plant medicine has always been the people’s medicine. For those who may feel intimidated to learn more about Aromatics, Seabird is a wonderful jumping off point to begin that journey. I am always behind the counter in the shop, come and see me. I am happy to chat all things aromatics!

What do you enjoy least?

The stigma that surrounds the use of essential oils. It is mostly associated with the improper use of them. The biggest misconception I see with aromatherapy is that consumers want to believe that a natural plant-derived substance is 100% safe. In reality, these products are extremely potent. As much as they have the potential to provide therapeutic benefit, they also have potential to cause harm. Essential oils really can act like a medication in the body but they must be used properly and formulated properly. This is why it is always important to work with a professional when using a holistic approach. I feel this really sets Seabird Aromatics apart.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

How complex and creative Aromatherapy really is. Aromatherapy is a fascinating field that goes beyond just pleasant scents. It is is a holistic approach, considering the whole person, mind, body, and spirit. Practitioners must study topics like botany, chemistry, anatomy, and pathology to grasp the intricate connections between essential oils and health. Aromatherapy’s complexity really lies in a blend of science, art, and individualized care. It is a never ending learning process.

What’s one artist you look up to?

This question is crazy hard, as there are so many artists, musicians, and creators out there that I adore but one who has always been by my side is Georgia O’keeffe. Her fearlessness to be completely herself, ability to capture the essence of nature, and her unique artistic vision inspire me greatly.

What do you do when you’re not at Seabird Aromatics?

If you know me at all then you know I like to spend as much time as possible at the beach. Beach-combing for treasures is my absolute favorite activity and crafting with my daughter. She is 6 and a real artist. She inspires me every day. I also love to go bodyboarding but here in Maine it is tough to do that year round. I just tried skiing for the first time this year and I'm definitely adding that to my list!

Night owl or early bird?

Night owl to the max!!

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Two Lights State Park is a go-to for me for when I need reflection or a reminder of how lucky I am to live here in Maine. ALL the beaches but Im a real Higgins girly. Lastly, Après is my fav spot for a tasty drink! We love to bring the whole family there in the Summer!

Maine Maker Monday | Hannah Hazel | Ceramica Co.

What’s your business name and what do you do?

My business name is Ceramica Co. I make functional ceramics with a focus on a timeless- minimalist aesthetic.

How did you learn your craft?

I took a ceramics class while attending college, and fell in love with it almost instantly. I stayed connected with the studio interning, and in return was able to refine my skills and develop my ‘style’.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I enjoy almost every aspect of the ceramic process. From throwing / forming the clay, to trimming, loading it in the kiln for the first firing, glazing, and putting it back in the kiln for a second firing. To selling my finished products at markets, and meeting so many cool people along the way.

What do you enjoy least?

My least favorite part of the process would probably be making handles for mugs...it’s time consuming, requires planning to get each piece of clay to the same ‘leather hard’ stage, and the handles need to be properly attached to the mugs to ensure they’re secure.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

I wish people knew how time consuming the whole process is. Like I’ve touched on a bit, the creation of a ceramic product from start to finish is extremely involved. I’m a one woman show, and do everything from lugging clay boxes into the studio, taking the photography for my work, organizing business taxes, networking, marketing, social media, and the list goes on. But you don’t really see that from the outside, most people just see a polished mug or dinnerware set. When the truth is that I spend 90% of the time covered in mud in my studio grinding away. But all of that to say, I believe the unique process of owning a ceramic business is so fulfilling because of all of the challenges and steps it takes to create a finished product.

What’s one artist you look up to?

There are countless artists / small business owners I look up to– including my friend Hannah of Reverie Coffee House. She started out in a tiny coffee trailer last summer, and just opened her first brick and mortar cafe in Brunswick. I’m so inspired not only by her determination, but by the way she lifts others up, and wants everyone to be successful.

What do you do when you’re not making pottery?

When I’m not creating, I love to travel abroad, read, write, mountain bike, trail run, and cook / bake.

Night owl or early bird?

I’ve learned I’m the most ‘productive’ in the mornings. But every once in a while, I love late nights in the studio. Sometimes I like to pour myself a glass of wine, put on my favorite playlist, and sit down at the wheel to throw.

What's your favorite place in Maine?

I have lots of favorite spots in Maine, but one of my favorite things to do in the summer is to make a midcoast trip. Visiting all the coastal towns along the way, and stopping to swim, hike, visit curated shops filled with Maine made goods, and try the best foodie spots.

Maine Maker Monday | Michelle Glassman | Petalage

What’s your business name and what do you do?  

Petalage is a full-service boutique floral design business specializing in retail florals, weddings & events.  We have a brick & mortar in South Portland where we dish out whimsical floral arrangements, artisanal gift items, wine/sweets & workshops year-round. Our studio space can be rented out for private events as well.  We hope to inspire & spark creativity through our floral crafting with a beautiful, meaningful and approachable brand.

How did you learn your craft?  

I learned my craft by throwing myself into it.  I had no experience in florals nor was I even a hobby gardener at the time.  I hadn’t even worked at a floral shop or a flower farm.  I left my corporate career of seven years, and I was searching for a medium that would be creative & expressive while also having the potential to grow into a profitable business.  I taught myself by practicing floral arranging, and I invested in a one-year remote mentorship program with a floral designer based out of Australia.  I attended a range of workshops in-state with local seasoned floral designers as well.  I utilized the internet and continued to educate myself.  However, most important I continue to finesse my craft by continually challenging myself, being creatively open, flexible, and trusting in my own personal style & aesthetic!

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

On the business end of things I enjoy the branding and social media management.  On the personal ends of things I enjoy getting to meet so many wonderful human beings through my craft. On the creative end of things I love the beauty that I find in a singular flower.  Flowers are the closest thing to understanding creation and now I have truly become a hobby gardener for sure and grown a genuine appreciation for florals.

What do you enjoy least?

Now that I have a retail shop, I dislike keeping up with the overhead.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

How much labor, coordination, and business management goes into running a floral design business.  People have a lot of misperceptions about what we do but if they saw how often I was calculating numbers or using an excel sheet they’d be genuinely very surprised to learn that its not far off from running any other type of business.

Who is one artist you look up to?

Matisse for art history reference.  So many illustrative artists that I follow online.  Floral artists like Oh Flora.  Retail florals Native Poppy out of California has been a huge inspiration for my business model.  International floral artists Backyard Floral and Korean floral artists in particular.

What do you do when you’re not at Petalage?

Right now I am a new mom with a six month old.  Other hobbies wise, I’ve been trying to do some watercoloring.  I enjoy taking photos, reading, and watching tv (cant lie).  I love my bed and sleeping. (cant lie).  I love my pit-mix Briglsey who sucks up most of my time other than Payson.  My cats are okay (hehe).  I mostly spend any free time with family or friends and of course my lovely  husband.  We’ve been together going on 16 years now!!  We enjoy simple things like continuing to work on our 95 year old bungalow in North Deering or checking out new coffee shops in the area or going out to eat.  I am currently enrolled in 1 of 2 of my final courses to obtain an Interior Design Certificate at Mass Bay Community college, and I am working on a small side project providing interior design services for a visual effects company who have relocated their tenant office space in the greater Boston area.  My first passion is interior decorating so I truly love nesting within my own home.  I now am an official hobby gardeners as well.  I have over 1200 seeds to plant this upcoming spring season!! 

Night owl or early bird?

NIGHT OWL

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Daily routine – Coffee Me Up

Nostalgia – Kennebunkport, Maine where our family resides, where we got married, and where we lived when we first moved from Maine to Boston.  Goochs Beach will always be a place of familial nostalgia.  

Maine Maker Monday | Natalie Kelton | Blue Moon Photography

What’s your business name and what do you do?

I am the proud owner of Blue Moon Photography, where I specialize in boudoir, wedding/elopement, and fine art photography. 

How did you learn your craft?

My journey into photography began at a young age with a simple candy camera, which eventually transformed into my great grandmother's point & shoot 35mm film camera. This passion culminated in receiving a DSLR in high school and ultimately earning a BFA in photography from the Savannah College of Art and Design. 

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

What captivates me most about photography is the element of surprise. Working with models or clients never fails to present unforeseen moments, a challenge I wholeheartedly embrace. I also cherish the inability to dictate how viewers interpret my work, reveling in the diverse perspectives shaped by our individual life experiences.

What do you enjoy least?

The aspect of photography I find least enjoyable is the lull in creative output, the waiting period before ideas manifest into tangible creations. 

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

A desire of mine is for more people to know that I am constantly seeking to collaborate and discover new models. If you've ever considered working with me, please don't hesitate to reach out!

What’s one artist you look up to?

Some of the artists who deeply inspire me include Margaret Bourke-White, Robert Mapplethorpe, Sally Mann, Diane Arbus, Joyce Tennyson, Cig Harvey, and Jocelyn Lee. 

What do you do when you’re not photographing?

Outside of photography, I am an avid reader who relishes spontaneous road trips with my husband and two dachshunds, as well as leisurely strolls through art museums. 

Night owl or early bird?

Determining whether I am a night owl or an early bird is a conundrum. While I am inclined towards staying up late engrossed in reading, I also rise early—though I am not truly awake until I've had my coffee. 

What's your favorite place in Maine?

My favorite sanctuary in Maine lies anywhere along the coast. The allure of discovering sea glass or witnessing the sunset's mesmerizing transformation as it dips below the horizon into the water captivates me.

Maine Maker Monday | Katie Strait | Kate Strait Photography

 What’s your business name and what do you do?

Kate Strait Photography - I am a Portland based photographer specializing in family portraits, wedding and seascapes. 

How did you learn your craft?

I took two years of photography in high school back when everything was on film. There I learned the principles of photography and the importance of expression through imagery. Photography was always a hobby, however, and it wasn’t until I was in between jobs, that I picked up my camera. My professional background is in marine science, as the ocean is the love of my life. Through a series of twists and turns in my professional career I ended up in education, where I still am today. Photography has been a way to learn a second income doing one of the other things I am most passionate about - taking photos!

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I love capturing the emotion and beauty of a moment that words simply cannot express. I want my images, whether they are of rippling water, a majestic mountain, a passing rainstorm, a moment of laughter in a wedding ceremony, or an individual wanting to show themselves truly, to hold and showcase honesty, authenticity and truth.

What do you enjoy least?

There isn’t really anything I don’t enjoy doing when it comes to photography. If I had to pick one thing though, it would be the stress of photographing weddings. There is a lot of pressure that comes with capturing a couple's big day, and hoping they will like what you created/captured for them. 

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

Just that my style is rooted in the desire to create authentic images of people in important moments and expressions (on the human side of things). On the natural world side of things (which I do think shows in my work) is how absolutely beautiful this world is and the importance of taking care of her. 

What’s one artist you look up to?

Christina Mittermeier - She is a Nat Geo photographer and her images are absolutely breathtaking. 

What do you do when you’re not photographing?

Well, I am teaching :) But when I am not working either profession, I am either surfing, walking the dogs on the beach, adventuring in nature, or hanging with my family and kiddos. 

Night owl or early bird?

Early bird all the way!

What's your favorite place in Maine?

That is a really hard one because there are so many amazing spots here. One of my favorite places is Higgins Beach. I spend a lot of time there either surfing or walking the dogs, or hanging out with my family. Although I am not a fan of how popular it has become in recent years, Higgins will forever be one of my most favorite places of all time.

Maine Maker Monday | Nell Lorraine | Nell Lorraine Designs

What’s your business name and what do you do?

My business is called Nell Lorraine Designs and I am a jewelry designer and goldsmith!

How did you learn your craft?

I attended an art school (Massachusetts College of Art & Design) and got my BFA in jewelry & metalsmithing. I went there with a plan to do ceramics or fashion designs but then fell instantly in love with jewelry making the first hour of my first class that I had signed up for just for fun!

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

The process of creating such small, intricate pieces that will become so much more than an accessory. I love that jewelry has meaning, symbolism, romance and beauty all wrapped up in it. Each piece I create is like it’s own story that will can be worn & enjoyed!

What do you enjoy least?

Anything on the computer. Keeping up with emails, website things, accounting. I hope to have an assistant for some of this someday soon! ;-)

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

How much I truly LOVE creating each piece and how honored I feel that my customers choose me to be the one to make such symbols of their love stories!

What’s one artist you look up to?

This is a hard questions because I enjoy so many artist’s work. I love clay, fibers, fashion, paintings. But to stay in my lane I would say my favorite Jewelry artist is Hannah Blount. Her work is so beautifully created and there is such a feeling behind each piece that leaves me creating an entire story in my mind about it’s meaning.

What do you do when you’re not crafting jewelry?

Snuggle my 3 kids, walk the beach, do yoga, read, travel any chance I get, drink way too much coffee and spend time with my incredible friends, boyfriend & family!

Night owl or early bird?

Neither & both really! I love to get in bed early sometimes and others watch a movie into the late hours of the night while my 3 year old snoozes next to me. Sometimes I love a late night studio session when my home is quiet. For mornings I like to have my coffee, read & have a bit of a cozy morning before starting my day, but would prefer if it wasn’t TOO early (says every mother ever)!

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Anywhere that there is an ocean view and salty air. If it’s warm out & I get feel the sun on my face while to watching my kids run around with bare feet on the sand that is a plus! Being by, or in, the ocean makes me feel extra happy & alive.

Maine Maker Monday | Elizabeth MacInnes | Ritual Art of Wellness

What’s your business name and what do you do?

Jackie Gallo and I started Ritual Art of Wellness in 2019. During Covid, Jackie created an amazing children’s school called Roots and I took over Ritual. Ritual has now become a women’s wellness collective with independent contractors for mental health, bodywork, breathwork etc.

How did you learn your craft?

I went to graduate school for my Masters in Social Work at University of New England and then completed a year long program at The Center for Self Leadership for Internal Family Systems. I also completed my Yoga Teacher Training in 2017 with Jennie Joan and that started a spiritual journey that brought me to where I am today.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

I love getting to witness my client’s journey of healing. The authenticity, vulnerability, and strength that I get to witness each day is truly incredible. Since starting my own practice, I am able to include intuition and astrology in my sessions, which allows me to incorporate western and eastern philosophy.

What do you enjoy least?

The hard truth that I can’t ever fix a situation. I’m a Virgo, so a part of me loves the idea of fixing. If I ever approach a situation with the intention to “fix”, I am not doing my job.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

How much of an impact the people I work with stay in my mind and heart.

What’s one artist you look up to?

I can’t choose between two! My favorite artists are Christina Watka and Nell Lorraine. I have been madly in love with both of their work from the second I learned of them. Christina is all about noticing light and her pieces have completely changed my lens of the world. Nell’s jewelry has a story, intention, and love infused in every piece. She has redefined jewelry for me.

What do you do when you’re not with Ritual Art of Wellness?

I’m usually having family time with my wife and two kids or getting lost in a book.

Night owl or early bird?

I am a homebody night owl.

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Kettle Cove has to be the most magical.

Maine Maker Monday | Quinn Evans | QUINN EVANS ART

What’s your business name and what do you do?

I run my studio practice under the name Quinn Evans Art. I am an oil painter based out of my studio in Portland, ME, and though I am mostly drawn to figurative work, I paint a variety of subjects, often creating scenes imbued with a darker, ethereal quality. I strive to immerse my audience in an experience that transcends the familiar, inviting exploration into the mysteries of both our inner selves and the surrounding world.

How did you learn your craft?

I come from a family of artists, so creativity has always been a constant in my life. My parents always made sure my brother and I had paints, pencils, etc. around for us to experiment with. Some of my earliest memories are of watching my parents draw or studying my grandmother's portrait paintings on her studio floor. I spent much of my childhood drawing people, and then I continued to study art in college. After graduating, I've spent countless hours continuing to explore different media and styles. It took me a while, but I've finally learned to be patient with myself and focus on enjoying the process. :)

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

The feeling of when I am painting. There is wonderful loss of self when you're holding a paintbrush, like all the noise in your head suddenly eases and you're completely enraptured with what's in front of you. There are truly so many joys to creating art, but a close second is the people you meet and connect with. Whether it be fellow artists, models, or clients, I have felt so grateful to have crossed paths with so many creative and kind folks.

What do you enjoy least?

It's often very tricky balancing the business and creative sides of being an artist. I've felt odd commodifying my artistic practice, which often relies on vulnerability and emotional reflection. Being a figurative artist hasn't been the most lucrative career, at least while I'm starting out, and I have frequently felt compelled to create work that I think would sell rather than fulfill my artistic visions. However, I recently started working at a frame shop, which has been wonderful, and helps release some of the financial pressures that were compromising my creative goals.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

Artwork takes work. Behind talent are thousands and thousands of hours of dedication, of honing a skill and making plenty of bad art. It's learned and practiced, and I will continue to invest much of my time and energy. I also believe it's important to create space for art that challenges and makes one uncomfortable. Often, when we encounter such pieces, we have the opportunity to explore our immediate reactions and, in doing so, unearth new insights about ourselves. I've personally found that emotive figurative work, in particular, can serve as a portal into another person's existence, which hopefully encourages a building of empathy in the viewer.

What’s one artist you look up to?

Aleah Chapin. I recently had the privilege of seeing her recent exhibition, "The Space Between Us," in NYC and it was an experience I'll never forget.

What do you do when you’re not making art?

I'm either with friends or snuggling with my husband, our dog, and two cats at home. Or experimenting with some new recipe in the kitchen!

Night owl or early bird?

Honestly neither, although I'm trying to be an early bird. I have a chronic illness that makes me exhausted more often than not, so I'm most happy midday with a coffee. :)

What's your favorite place in Maine?

Very tough question as there are so many lovely spots in Maine, but I have to say Mayo Street Arts is at the top of my list. I have had my studio there for almost two years now, and the community is so wonderful. They also put on some really quirky and spectacular productions and I highly recommend checking them out!

Maine Maker Monday | Kaitlin Toto | Photographer

What’s your business name and what do you do?

I’m Kaitlin Toto (yes, my last name really is Toto and I can’t even begin to tell you how many times people have sung “Africa” at me) and I’m a Portland-based photographer.

How did you learn your craft?

I’m almost entirely self-taught with the exception of one film photography class my senior year of high school. In middle school, I would purchase the three packs of disposable cameras and bring them with me everywhere. I was a frequent flier at the Walmart Photo Center, picking up prints damn near weekly. I got my first digital point-and-shoot when I was a sophomore in high school and my first DSLR, a Nikon D3200, because it was on sale at Target and I was a new (read: suuuuper broke) college graduate.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

It’s the people for me, and their stories, that I love the most. There’s a certain level of vulnerability for folks when they step in front of a camera, you know? People are inviting me into their homes, their lives to document some of their sweetest, messiest, most intimate, most authentic, and sometimes even grief-filled moments. I deeply appreciate my client’s willingness to share all of that with me as I create photographs to tell their stories.

What do you enjoy least?

Doing my taxes. It's like, again? Really? Didn't I just do these?!

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

I wish people really understood what this job and being in this industry requires. Having a camera is not enough, but many folks act like it is. “You’re just pressing a button.” I think I’m extra sensitive to sentiments such as this one because it brings me back to when I was an English teacher. People think because they’ve been a student or because they have a child who is in school that they know what it takes and what it’s like to be an educator. Simply owning a camera doesn’t equate to talent, experience, passion, and commitment. Also, if I read one more social media post of someone looking for an experienced photographer who "doesn't cost an arm and a leg," it will be too soon. I don't want your arms or your legs. I just want to be able to pay my bills and be able to afford to go to the dentist.

What’s one artist you look up to?

I really like William Eggleston - he takes ultra-ordinary objects and everyday people and turns them into such engaging subject matter. Eggleston is the perfect example of taking your camera along for the ride, which is something I wish I did more often. 

What do you do when you’re not photographing people?

When I’m not working, and it’s wintertime, you’ll find me under my heated blanket watching The Sopranos or loitering at local coffee shops. If it’s warmer weather, I’m probably near the ocean or reading in my hammock. My boyfriend, Nate, and I have a French Mastiff named Reuben, so we spend a lot of time going on little adventures with him. I’m also trying to get back into writing more often. 

Night owl or early bird?

I’m typing this at 12:40 am and drinking a coffee from earlier, so…night owl. 

What's your favorite place in Maine?

How can I even pick a favorite spot in this state? Maine is such an earthly gem. If I have to though, I’d day Hermit Island in Phippsburg during the off-season - it’s just one of those places that makes me feel soothed and at ease.

MAINE MAKER MONDAY | Lindsay Diminick | Yellow Twist

What’s your business name and what do you do?

Yellow Twist. Floral design, installation and sculpture.

How did you learn your craft?

Each and every holiday growing up I received flowers. I loved to play with them, taking them apart, rearranging, seeing how long each bloom could last. When eighth grade career day was announced I told my mother I would be going to the flower shop because one day I would have my own.

After undergrad, a career as a director of fundraising events grabbed my attention. I loved it but started to long for more creativity. A friend got married and trusted me with her flowers. I fell back in love – the same kind I felt in eighth grade. For a bit of time working with flowers was a side job, but then I went for it and opened Yellow Twist out of my home in Pittsburgh. I decided to see what formal training looked like and completed a floral design certificate at Phipps Botanical Conservatory. It was fascinating to learn the history of flowers, become familiar with formal techniques and meld them together with my own design philosophy. I also finished a master’s degree in Multimedia – focusing on graphic design.

Since then I have had the privilege of studying with many of today’s great floral designers and innovators. I intend to be a lifelong student.

What do you enjoy most about what you do?

Problem solving. Each event and project brings a new set of challenges; many that only present themselves in the moment. I get great satisfaction making things work without the clients ever knowing what catastrophe was avoided.

What do you enjoy least?

Washing buckets; especially when they’ve been forgotten and have rotting flower bits – it is an indescribable smell. And email. I’m a xennial and like the phone.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?

Flowers should be considered more of an experience than a physical product. Hence why it is not their longevity that is valuable but the sentiment they communicate and the way they make people feel. In the hands of talented designers, flowers become art, and in the hands of a recipient they can become love, gratitude, shared grief and more.

What’s one artist you look up to?

Holly Chapple brought me back to flowers after a diagnosis of leukemia. I wasn’t sure how to return to my work and art but she knew what to do. Her capacity for giving is unmatched and the entire floral industry has benefited from her willingness to share her talent. She elevated event designers out of the “basement” and opened the doors for designers to structure their businesses in new and diverse ways.
What do you do when you’re not at Yellow Twist?

I have two young kiddos and two pups. Operating as a studio allows me the flexibility to leave the winter open for skiing. Being on the snow is pure joy. I intend to write more but confess that it never makes it to the top of the day’s tasks.