Designer Spotlight: Richelle Shadoan
A BRIEF STORY OF WHAT YOU DO AND WHY YOU DO IT
I would like to do everything, but my main focus is on artisan photo jewelry custom made with your favorite photos. It started one day when, in search of a design for a new piece, I thought to use a great shot my husband had taken on vacation. That led to making bracelets and necklaces with portraits, in addition to memorable snapshots with personal meaning.
HOW DID YOU GET INTO JEWELRY DESIGN?
WHAT MAKES YOUR COLLECTION UNIQUE?
Although there are thousands of jewelry designers out there, luckily for me there are very few artists using bamboo tiles and almost nobody makes personalized photo jewelry. But what makes my collection unique is the high quality and superior craftsmanship. I check out my fellow artists frequently and I don't believe anyone can compete with me on that. I have spent years perfecting my technique. Every bracelet is a work of art, not just an accessory.
WHAT ARE YOUR INSPIRATIONS?
My favorite inspiration is someone's cherished photo. Not only do I want to create a high quality, one of a kind product that has great meaning for the wearer, but each individual's picture provides me with a color palette for my beading. It is magical when I can perfectly complement the photos with the beading.
HOW ARE YOU MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR LIFE?
WHAT'S SOMETHING UNUSUAL ABOUT YOU THAT MAKES YOU “YOU”?
What makes me “me” is that I am unusual. But technically speaking, I think it is my eye for color and pattern. I am not afraid of either one. Bring it.
WHAT'S THE BIGGEST STRUGGLE IN RUNNING YOUR JEWELRY BUSINESS LIKE A BUSINESS? OR WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SUCCESS IN RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS LIKE A BUSINESS?
The biggest struggle IS running my jewelry business like a business. Is that a trick question? The business side seems to take so much more time and energy than the creative fun part. It's like having to eat a bunch of yucky health food so that you can enjoy one cookie.
