Designer Spotlight: Amanda Nicole Moreno
A brief story of what you do and why you do it.
From early in time I embraced fashion and its allowance for creativity. I knew as a young girl that it would somehow be a part of my future. As a child, one of my favorite treasures was a hatbox of my mom's that was filled with jewelry. I would spend countless hours admiring each piece and trying them on. Throughout the years I dabbled in several areas of fashion and design, be it making clothes, handbags or even hair accessories. It wasn't until later that I found my passion in jewelry. I am a mother of four boys so jeans and tees are my uniform. I love how a piece of jewelry can spice up any outfit and make you sparkle.
How did you get into jewelry design?
I started off tinkering with beads and gemstones making earrings for myself. I would get compliments at work and soon was asked to make some for my coworkers. I decided to start selling my creations on eBay and was surprised to find people liked my designs and were purchasing from me. That's where the addiction began.
What makes your collection unique?
It took me many years to find my “niche”. I wouldn't say that I have a specific style but I have focused my designs on religious inspirations. I like to modernize religious medals and of course add a bit of sparkle. I also have a few pieces that you can customize to make them personal to you. Because I personally handcraft each piece, each one is unique in its own way.
What are your inspirations?
I am drawn to vintage religious antiquities. I love religious art and the beauty and emotion it depicts. My personal style is vast, from vintage to modern elements. I try to incorporate all aspects of these influences into my designs.
How are you making a difference in your life?
By living it creatively. I am not a happy person if I am not creating. It's like a fierce monster inside of me and when I cage it, it becomes angry. I feel debilitated when I am not doing something creative.
What's something unusual about you that makes you “you”?
My style is very eclectic and finicky. Some days I feel like being elaborate and fussy, some days I feel a little boho chic and others I feel like being a bit modish and simplistic. All of this I try to incorporate in what I design.
What's the biggest struggle in running your jewelry business like a business?
My biggest struggle is the non-creative aspect. The bookkeeping, the shipping and even the marketing. I just want to sit and create. One day I hope to have someone to do all the left-brained duties for me.
About Amanda
I am a creative soul. If I can make it, I will. Fashion is one of my biggest obsessions and I have found my passion in jewelry.
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/blessedbyamanda
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BLESSEDbyamanda
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlessedByAmandaNicole
Instagram: @blessed_byamandajewelry
