Here is one talented lady creating some of the most unique jewelry you have ever seen. Her designs are sold in New York boutiques and recently singer songwriter Jessie J scooped up some of her work and has been spotted by many Paparazzi wearing Val’s Designs. We asked Val if she could share a little about her self and her designs with Garage-Girls….
GG. Tell us about you, where are you from, what are you into and what do you like to do with your free time?
VE. I am a single, 25 year old really just enjoying life. I live in Milwaukee, WI and love being around family and friends. I enjoy going to concerts, hanging with friends, cooking, trying new restaurants, and so much else. My perfect day would definitely consist of sitting on my patio and enjoying a glass of wine with a friend.
GG. How did you find your passion for jewelry design how long have you been doing it?
VE. I have been making jewelry for as long as I can remember, but I started making it seriously after a trip to New York several years ago. I really fell in love with the fashion and realized that I could make some of the things being sold there in high-end boutiques. I started making rings early on just for myself, but I ended up selling them to friends and family, and eventually salons and boutiques.
GG. What do you love most about it?
VE. I love that I am the one in charge. No one can tell me that I am making something wrong. I just let my hands lead the way, and my mind follows. It is a great de-stresser after a long day at work! It always makes me feel great when people appreciate what I make as well. There is nothing better than a happy customer sporting something that I made. My recent accomplishment was selling a ring to the up and coming musician, Jessie J. The feeling of seeing her wear something that I made is priceless.
GG. Do you have a sweet car or a motorcycle?
VE. Not yet, but someday I will! Let’s just say that after my student loans are paid off, I will have a very sweet ride!
GG. What are you most passionate about in life?
VE. I am very passionate about my friends and family. I don’t know what I would do without them in my life! They are always so supportive of me and my business. The support is what has kept me doing what I am doing!
GG. Is there anything you would love to learn to do?
VE. I would love to be able to paint. For as creative as I am, I cannot draw or paint to save my life. Maybe in another lifetime, I will become a painter. Until then, I guess I will just have to stick to making jewelry!
GG. Where would you most like to visit?
VE. Italy and Sicily, hands down. Being Italian and Sicilian, I feel like it’s my duty to see where my family ultimately came from. If I think my grandma makes a mean pasta, I can’t even imagine what it would taste like there. It’s actually making me pretty hungry just thinking about it!
GG. What is your idea of relaxing?
VE. Sitting on my couch and watching TV is the perfect way to unwind after a long day. Adding a cup of coffee or wine just makes it that much better.
GG. What type of music do you normally listen to?
VE. My music taste is all across the board. My iPod is filled with lots of music genres: pop, indie, rap, oldies, classical, dance, etc. It really depends on what type of mood I am in, but regardless I always have some sort of tunes playing at all times.
GG. Do you collect anything?
VE. I like collecting vintage beads and buttons. I think the best pieces of jewelry that I make come from something with a previous story. When I find a unique vintage bead or button, I can’t help but think about where it was worn or who owned it before. It’s great to reuse and up-cycle something old to create something modern and new.
To see some of Val’s work check out her sites at www.myspace.com/BeadAndToggle and www.etsy.shop/BeadAndToggle*
If you would like to have Val create a one of design for you contact her at BeadAndToggle@yahoo.com