We were lucky to catch up with Valerie Michele recently and have shared our conversation below.

Valerie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

When I was thirteen, I took on a project that changed my life. It started when my mom took me to a local bead shop and spent a few hundred dollars on some beautiful red agate stones in different shapes and sizes. I had no clue what I was doing, but I was excited to make something special—a necklace for my Grammy.

The experience was exhilarating. I spent hours piecing together the stones, trying to balance the colors and shapes without any formal training or prior experience. Despite my lack of expertise, I was having the time of my life. The process of selecting each bead, threading them together, and visualizing the final piece was a thrilling adventure into the world of creativity and design. When I finally completed the necklace, it was far from perfect. The craftsmanship was rough at best, but to my Grammy, it was a masterpiece.

These days, that very necklace hangs in my office. Every time I see it, I can’t help but laugh at its imperfections. The crimp beads are messy, the chain length isn’t even, and the string wire shows at the top for an inch or more. But it reminds me of where it all began. It’s not just a piece of jewelry; it’s a symbol of my passion and the spark that ignited my dream of entering the fashion world.

My love for fashion began even earlier. In kindergarten, when asked what I wanted to be when I grew up, I drew a picture of a fashion designer. I knew, even then, that I wanted to create beautiful things and that I would somehow make it happen.

The necklace project was more than just a gift for my Grammy; it was a turning point that fueled my passion and boosted my confidence in crafting. After finishing the necklace, I started making other items. My mom’s friends became my first customers, and each sale made me more confident. I learned to experiment with different materials, designs, and techniques, steadily improving my skills.

This early experience was invaluable. It taught me the joy of creating something with my own hands, the satisfaction of seeing someone else appreciate my work, and the importance of perseverance. The challenges I faced in making that first necklace mirrored the obstacles I would later encounter in pursuing a career in fashion—uncertainty, trial and error, and the continuous effort to improve.

Looking back, I realize how significant that necklace project was in shaping my career. It was the catalyst that transformed a childhood dream into a lifelong ambition. Every piece I design now carries a piece of that initial excitement and wonder I felt at thirteen. My journey into the fashion world has been filled with learning and growth, but it all traces back to that one meaningful project—an imperfect necklace for my Grammy, crafted with love and an unyielding passion for creativity.

Valerie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Born and raised in Orange County, California, I’m a true beach girl at heart. My studio in Irvine is a haven where I draw deep inspiration from the ocean and nature. Growing up around fashion, I’ve always marched to the beat of my own drum. I’ve never been afraid to express myself and adventure deep into fashion and style. My love for travel has been a constant in my life, and it has trickled into all of my ideas and designs, infusing them with a unique blend of global influences and personal flair.

Growing up, I was always making jewelry, either to sell to my mom’s friends or just for fun. My junior year of high school marked a turning point when I got accepted into a fashion design school. Once I graduated, I jumped into my fashion classes, but I kept getting pulled back to jewelry. I knew that’s where my heart was. I became a traveling wardrobe stylist and continued making jewelry on the side. Even while styling my models, I found myself focusing more on the jewelry, and I knew I had to dive deeper into that passion.

I started attending artisan fairs and pop-up markets to learn as an outsider before becoming a vendor myself. Today, besides being a vendor, I also sell in stores and host pop-up shops at various locations.

My work includes a wide range of jewelry designs, and I take custom orders for everything from bridal looks and bridal parties to birthday or anniversary gifts. I love the challenge of stepping out of my own box and creating a look tailored to a client’s specific request. Additionally, I offer engaging jewelry workshops, from corporate team-building events and bachelorette parties to birthday celebrations. I work with clients to come up with a theme and provide all the necessary supplies and services. It’s incredibly rewarding to see others’ creativity spark, even those who don’t typically engage in artistic endeavors.

What sets me apart is my love for making a statement. I’m not afraid to push the limits, and my keen eye for styling helps bring visions to life. I scuba dive and often incorporate shells I find into my jewelry, blending textures and raw elements to create unique pieces that tell a story. I love mixing various materials to craft bold, distinctive designs that stand out.

The thing I’m most proud of is when customers tell me they aren’t typically jewelry wearers, but my designs spoke to them, and they couldn’t leave without buying a piece. Seeing these customers return, and watching them gain new confidence from just one accessory, is immensely satisfying. One of my favorite stories is of a customer who didn’t have her ears pierced but was so drawn to my earrings that she bought them and then went to get her ears pierced. To this day, I am still overjoyed that I had that effect on someone.

I want potential clients, followers, and jewelry admirers to know that my brand is all about embracing creativity and individuality. My designs are crafted with passion and a sense of adventure, reflecting my journey and the unique stories of those who wear them. Whether you’re looking for a standout piece for a special occasion or a creative workshop to ignite your own artistic spark, I’m here to help you make a statement and celebrate your personal style.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

A goal of mine is to see my jewelry worn all over the globe. And to see my designs styled in magazines across the world. I want it to spark a fire for customers to really step out of their comfort zone and embrace a bold style. My creative journey is propelled by this mission, driving me to push boundaries and explore new horizons. With each piece I create, I envision it becoming a symbol of empowerment and self-expression for wearers worldwide. It’s not just about crafting beautiful accessories; it’s about inspiring confidence and encouraging individuals to embrace their unique sense of style fearlessly.

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

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a designer is seeing the genuine excitement and joy that my creations bring to others. It’s incredibly fulfilling to witness the impact of my work as it resonates with people on a personal level, even complete strangers. The ability to share my love and passion through my art is a privilege, and knowing that it can evoke emotions and spark inspiration in others is truly gratifying. It’s a reminder of the power of creativity to connect us and enrich our lives in meaningful ways.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.valeriemicheledesign.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeriemicheledesign
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ValerieMDesign

Image Credits

Ali Hanley, Kayden Muzila