We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Crystal Arellano. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Crystal below.

Alright, Crystal thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Alright – so having the idea is one thing, but going from idea to execution is where countless people drop the ball. Can you talk to us about your journey from idea to execution?

Well, I started out with sewing as a pass-time hobby, which then grew into a passion. At the time while I was learning about sewing techniques, I started with making dresses. They came out horrible but I was proud of myself and I wore them with confidence. I then had the idea to make my own costume. I started posting the process and photos on social media, which caught attention from family and friends. I was then commissioned to make costumes for their children. Around that time I discovered the world of pop-up market events. It sparked an interest for me because I thought it would be a great way to promote myself and show my work, but then realized what I was offering wasn’t something I can set up at a booth to sell. That’s when I spiralled down a path of trying to sew items that might interest customers and I lost myself in trying to produce products, instead of creating works of art through sewing. It’s been a few years now that it has taken me to figure out where I am going with my passion. But during those years, I found another passion, which is coordinating. I love going from painting an idea in my mind and making that a reality. Coordinating events, weddings, and party planning has actually opened so many doors for me. It’s also given me the opportunity to re-evaluate where I want to head with my sewing adventure, and create a business out of it.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Crystal and I’m the artist behind Crystal’s ideas. I’ve always been someone with all these ideas in my mind but never knew how to execute them or have confidence to show what I am capable of creating or doing. I like to consider myself a jack-of-all-trades because I have acquired many skills throughout the years. Aside from sewing and coordinating, I do graphic design, photo-editing, video-editing, and baking. Occasionally photography, but I prefer photo-editing. I like to think I am a fast learner and I love learning new skills and techniques in all areas. One of the important lessons I have learned is to stop trying to please everyone when it comes to your art. whether it be the way you coordinate, what you focus on sewing, or even the pastries you bake. You must always focus yourself on how you see your art. Not everyone has to like it, but those who do, will respect your worth.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, I have a goal set in mind. When I first started down this journey my goal was to open a boutique or a brand that people would love. I wanted to be able to design products such as dresses or purses. At some point I was lost down the path to my goal and I kept seeing all these amazing artists making that same dream happen. I am now back on the path and I am more focused on where and how I can eventually achieve my goal taking what I started and making it into what I want.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect has been being able to give my daughter’s the opportunity to dress like princesses. Any dress they want for any occasion or costume for Halloween, I try my best to make it happen. Giving my children the opportunity to play dress-up has fueled my creativity with sewing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://crystalsideas.myshopify.com
• Instagram: @crystals.ideas
• Facebook: facebook.com/crystals.ideas
• Other: msha.ke/crystals.ideas