Interview - Crafty Chics

Dotted with Hearts got to interview the lovely Charlie of Crafty Chics.

Q. Please tell us a little about yourself and Crafty Chics

My name is Charlie I’m married to Mr Smith and have 3 quite fabulous kids, Tyler, Macy Mai, and our latest Big Ron … Pre children I studied fashion promotion and graphic design and have always had a passion for fashion and accessories. Being a Mummy meant I could give up full time work and concentrate on making a lovely home and lovely things. My most favoured treasures in the world are my family and friends, and my LV bag. I love vintage lace and Sunday morning car booting followed by lunch at Nana's.

Crafty Chics was created out of the love of all things vintage, I hope you will find a unique selection of accessories made from some gorgeous new materials as well as some very unique vintage pieces. Some beautiful flowery Headbands, Tiaras, Hair Combs and Bobby Pins perfect for any occasion, from everyday wear through to Mother of the bride.
Plus some beautifully handmade Shoulder Pads, perfect to dress up any outfit, some fantastic shoe clips to vamp up a pair of shoes or flip flops, and some very individual rings and brooches. I work alot on individual customers requirements.

Q. Where in the world are you based?

I am based in Leigh On Sea in Essex, it is a beautiful area of the world to live.

Q. What made you get into crafting?

In my teens I started making jewellery for myself and friends, mainly through the desire to have items that were individual. Probably like many other crafters and designers I have dabbled in lots of crafts including card making and home wares over the years. But my heart has always been in accessories.

Q. What your most favourite things to make?

That's a hard one I love making the shoulder accessories, I love the time I spend making them and that each one is unique in its own way. But give me a piece of lace and some ribbon and I'll happily make anything.

Q. What are your most popular items?

I would say the elasticated headbands are very popular, whether it be with a single ribbon flower or a headband with a cluster of lace flowers. They are so versatile and different flowers and colouring can change them from something to throw on with jeans and a shirt to something to wear for a night out.

Q. Who or what is your inspiration?

I get my inspiration from all manor of places. I love looking out for new trends from the catwalk, but I also take inspiration from my surroundings and nature. Sometimes just looking at a pile of ribbon and lace together on my table can be enough to come up with a new design.

Q. Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?

Crafty Chics is still very new and I am keen to let it grow naturally, and have fun along the way. I have recently started selling through boutiques locally here in Leigh On Sea, so I am keen to expand on that. Probably every designers dream is to own their own boutique which I would obviously love. I would say though in five years times I would just like to see myself happily creating accessories with happy customer x

You can find Crafty Chicks on Facebook www.facebook.com/craftychics or you can visit the website at http://www.craftychics.weebly.com/

Photos by Bump Baby and Beyond Photgraphy http://www.facebook.com/bumpbabybeyondphotography