The winner of the blog interview from 11/18 was Laura Hearn Caruso of MV Treasures. Her beautiful Howlite and Silver Button Cuff Bracelet the stole hearts of many. Here is her story.
Tell us a bit about yourself (name, location, affiliations, personal stuff)
My name is Laura Hearn Caruso and I split my time between Billerica, Massachusetts and Martha's Vineyard Island (hence the name MV Treasures). I am a busy mom to a wonderful, energetic, spontaneous 4 year old daughter. I am also a professional dog trainer and columnist for our local paper. "All About Pets" is also featured on Galtime.com .
What are your favorite materials?
My favorite materials are made by or altered by nature; wampum, leather, turquoise, hemp and sea glass. 
What is your favorite color combination?
My favorite color combination is the beautiful bright blue of turquoise and the hard steely gray of hematite. Gorgeous!
What is the first thing you can remember making by hand? How and why did you make it?
My favorite memory of crafting was making Christmas ornaments with my Dad and sister. We used round, flat, white shells we had collected and painted holiday scenes on them. Dad drilled holes in the top and we strung ribbon through to hang on the trees. I still have one that I hang on our tree each year.
What inspires you?
I am inspired by the colors of nature, sky, ocean, sand, shells and of course the antics of my daughter.
Where do your ideas come from?
My ideas are often inspired by my daughter’s sense of "style." We make jewelry together to give to her friends and our family. Sometimes seeing what she does sparks my creative side. I am also inspired by other jewelry designers; I love to see their new creations as well.
What are your greatest challenges? How do you overcome them?
My greatest challenge is time management. Fortunately my daughter is in school a few hours each week and still naps most days ;)
Why should people buy handmade? Any tips of wisdom on selling handmade items?
People should purchase handmade goods to support small local businesses. One of the greatest American dreams is to own your own small business and be able to support yourself by doing so. In the tough economic times we are currently facing, it is nice for our dollars to stay close to home. As far as wisdom, create what you love, begin by what you are good at, think out of the box and do not sell yourself short.
Apart from creating things, what do you do?
As for things I enjoy, exploring the great outdoors with my daughter, hiking, kayaking, horseback riding and gardening are top of the list.
What are the Web addresses for your work? Are you offering my readers any specials?
My site is www.mvtreasures.etsy.com and your fabulous readers can enjoy 15% off with coupon code MissEileen15 (Good through 12/31/11)
Thank you so much for this opportunity!
Laura Hearn Caruso
MV Treasures
Thank you, Laura, for your beautiful creations.
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