RaspberryKidz: Talk to Me Tuesday!

This week I talked to Erika from iDew Designs.

Her lovely etsy shop is filled with beautiful pieces, many of them eco-friendly. Check it out, and read below to learn a little more about her and her jewelry.

twisted sister pearl bracelet

How did you come up with the name iDew Designs?

What got you started in your business?

I began making jewelry when I needed a pearl necklace for my own wedding, but I could not find the quality and workmanship that I wanted at a reasonable price. I decided to try to make it on my own, and when I realized how beautiful the result was and how much I enjoyed making jewelry, iDew Designs was born. The name came originally based on the obvious play on "I do" that is used in many wedding ceremonies (or at least some variation of that phrase). I changed "do" to "dew" since a pearl resembles a dew drop of water. In addition, I am an environmentalist. I study the ocean—specifically marine mammals and ocean conservation. Water is fundamental for life, so I liked the reference to water in the title of my shop since it reflects who I am.

What did you do before this?

I started iDewDesigns while finishing up graduate school. I am a marine scientist, but I love that making art and jewelry helps me balance out the science side of me and makes me a more well-rounded and balanced person.

pink pearl nugget necklace

pink princess pearl necklace

What makes your pieces eco-friendly?

I seek out as many eco-friendly supplies as I can for my jewelry—using beads from sustainable resources such as tagua nuts, coconut, and other sources from nature. I also like to work with linen and other natural fibers that are dyed with vegetable dyes and can make my customers feel good about their purchases and their impact on the earth.

What inspired your designs?

I am usually inspired by nature and its beauty. I love weddings, and the simplicity of what the day means. I like to create pieces that compliment the wearer's natural beauty.

a bit of berry—eco-friendly necklace

summer days—eco-friendly necklace

You also do custom pieces. Whats the most unique request you’ve gotten?

I had a customer who wanted to integrate dragonflies and butterflies into her wedding so I made her a pair of custom earrings that incorporated this theme, and she loved the result!

Do you have a favorite piece from your shop?

Each piece is a unique, one of a kind creation. I do not really have a favorite. It just depends on the day for me.

What’s your most productive time of day?

I usually only get to work on my designs at night, and sometimes on the weekend. Luckily, my productivity comes at various times throughout the day!

Where do you see your business in 5 years?

I hope to continue to make jewelry. I am also starting to get more involved in pottery so I hope to add some of my pieces to my store. I am also having fun with knitting so we'll see where that takes me. There may be some scarves and baby blankets in my future!

What’s one thing you can’t live without?

The sun! I am waiting for the longer days to slowly return!