What's In a Name?

Some have asked me for the story behind my business name, Snowflake Designs. Here's the scoop:


Originally I set out to make exclusively one-of-a-kind pieces. Each and every item of jewelry that I made was unique and I never repeated any patterns or designs. No two were ever alike. Just like snowflakes.


There are so many beautiful gems, so many perfect pearls, so many intriguing glass beads, so many exciting new techniques to learn. I was certain I would never run out of ideas for new jewelry designs.


And so far I haven't.


But there are some problems with creating only one-of-a-kind pieces. I started to play favorites. A few designs turned out so well that I just fell in love with them and didn't want to see them go. Sometimes I would keep these items for myself, but the artist in me still wanted to share these creations with the world. So I started to think about how I could shift my identity.


As I started to do more and more repeatable designs, I found that my creativity was not suffering, but rather flourishing. The more time and practice I had with each piece, the closer it came to my original vision. And as I started to perfect my techniques, I became more confident to use more lavish gemstones, precious metals and other premium materials.


I started to wonder: Should I change my business name? Or could I simply learn to look at it differently?


Snowflakes are one of the most intriguing elements in nature. I have always been fascinated by their intricate details and multifaceted complexity. And it was a similar fascination with sparkling tiny things that attracted me to jewelry making. My approach to jewelry is also multifaceted, using a broad range of varied techniques and materials.


So, today you will find in my jewelry collection some repeating designs alongside some one-of-a-kind works. And the name Snowflake Designs will continue to represent my work, even as I continue to reinvent myself.