Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sanne Hamers. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Sanne, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
During my last pregnancy, after experiencing multiple losses, I wanted to capture my exact pregnant form and body in a way that felt original and empowering. While exploring creative options, I discovered the concept of 3D body sculptures in the Netherlands—my home country—but found that nothing similar existed in the United States, aside from traditional belly casting. Determined to bring this idea to life, I immersed myself in research and development during the COVID pandemic, refining the process through extensive prototyping and testing.
When I finally created my own sculpture, it became more than just an artwork—it was an ode to my body, a celebration of its strength and resilience. Inspired by this experience, I also explored the idea of transforming these sculptures into jewelry, further extending their significance. The overwhelmingly positive responses to my work gave me the confidence to turn this passion into a full-fledged business.
I soon realized that this concept wasn’t just for pregnancy; it was for women at all stages of life. The female form is an extraordinary work of art in itself, deserving to be honored and preserved in a timeless and meaningful way.
Today, I am proud to be the only permanent studio in the United States specializing in this art form. Based in San Diego, I am grateful and excited to welcome clients from across the country who seek this one-of-a-kind experience.
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.
I was born and raised in the Netherlands until the age of 21, when I moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in Hollywood. I began as an intern for celebrity stylist Rachel Zoe and later established myself as an independent fashion stylist, working with celebrities for red carpet and press event and styling editorials for renowned fashion magazines. Through this work, I had the opportunity to experience some of the most extraordinary homes, filled with carefully curated art collections and exquisite interior designs.
My passion for art, interiors, and unique objects has always been a driving force in my creative journey. Eventually, I transitioned from the fashion industry into the world of interior design, where I naturally gravitated toward creating and curating distinctive objects for my own home.
When I became pregnant, I found myself uninterested in traditional maternity photography. As someone who had always worked behind the camera, the idea of a styled photoshoot with elaborate hair and makeup felt staged and inauthentic to me. I also struggled with the thought of where I would display such images in my home, as they didn’t truly reflect my identity.
It was during this time that I discovered the concept of creating a personalized sculpture in Amsterdam. I was immediately captivated by the technology behind it and recognized its vast creative potential and decided to starts this process for myself and bought a 3d printer and rented a state of the art 3d medical scanner.
When I finally had my own sculpture made, it was an emotional experience—I was moved not only by its beauty but also by the deep personal meaning it held. Beyond being a striking piece of art, it instantly elevated my home’s aesthetic.
What resonated with me the most was the realization that this sculpture was something I could pass down to future generations. One day, my grandchildren might place it on their bookshelf and be reminded of me. And hopefully, they’ll think, Look how cool Grandma was!
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
In addition to running local social media advertising campaigns, I have developed an affiliate program to collaborate with businesses in the San Diego area that cater to expectant mothers. I currently partner with a birth center and local prenatal chiropractors who have a strong client base of pregnant women.
To enhance visibility and engagement, I have created sample sculptures that are displayed in their clinics and offices. These physical examples allow potential clients to see the artistry and craftsmanship firsthand, making the experience more tangible and meaningful. Working with these female business owners has been incredibly rewarding—not only do they recognize the value of my service, these partnerships have fostered a strong sense of community. They are all working mothers themselves, and their spaces frequently host events that bring together women in various stages of motherhood/support groups.
Being part of this network allows me to connect on a more personal level, making my business and marketing feel less like a traditional business and more like a shared celebration of motherhood. Which is so natural and more like me.
We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.
I personally craft each sculpture by hand after 3D printing it, ensuring the highest level of artistry and attention to detail. Because of this, my availability for future clients is limited, making each piece a truly exclusive and bespoke creation.
To perfect my technique, I conducted extensive research and experimentation with fine finishes and metal layering. Before officially launching my studio, I completed a specialized metal coating course in Boston, where I was the only women in a field dominated by experts in the fine painting industry for interior and automotive industry.
This experience provided invaluable insights, and I continue to be part of professional networks, including specialized forums and industry groups, where I exchange knowledge with professionals in 3D printing, coatings, and fine finishing. The support and shared expertise within these communities have been instrumental in refining my craft and troubleshooting challenges along the way.
While I personally oversee every aspect of the sculpture-making process, the only element I outsource is the gold casting for the jewelry pieces. This intricate process requires specialized expertise, and I was fortunate to collaborate with a highly skilled local goldsmith who recognized the artistic potential of my work and generously supported me in bringing these unique pieces to life.
Because I built the manufacturing side of my business entirely on my own—without the need to outsource production—I am now expanding my focus to collaborate with partners in the maternity industry outside of San Diego. My goal is to make this unique art form more widely available across the U.S. by integrating 3D body scanning into complementary businesses.
I have already begun working with select partners, including newborn photographers, who are incorporating 3D scanning into their offerings. In addition to providing them with high-quality manufacturing services, I also serve as a mentor, guiding them through the process of establishing 3D scanning as an additional service. These partners conduct the scans themselves and then send the files to me, where I handle the manufacturing and finishing.
By creating these partnerships, I am not only expanding the reach of this unique art form but also helping other professionals enhance their businesses with an innovative and deeply meaningful service.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.atelierpreserve.com
- Instagram: @atelierpreserve
- Youtube: https://youtu.be/_IWP96jwWmE?si=ya7XHBoQQkUnHHlN
