The Artisan Group is proud to announce today’s Artist Spotlight Feature is Julie Ter Borg of Julie Ellyn Designs!
JULIE ELLYN DESIGNS
We caught up with Julie and asked her a few questions about her trendy gemstone jewelry designs, and her experiences so far working with TAG. Here’s what she said:
Tell us a little bit about your shoppe.
I started designing jewelry as a hobby and stress release from my hectic job as a research scientist and consultant. I really enjoyed the creative process and gifting handmade items to my friends and family. When my bead stash started to become overwhelming, my husband encouraged me to start selling my designs. Never did I dream that I would have the level of success that I have reached so far. Such a joy!
My shoppe features a variety of designs, from feminine and dainty gemstone earrings to large statement bracelets. I only use high quality materials such as semi-precious gemstones, 14k gold filled or sterling silver wire, and fresh water cultured pearls. I try to stay on top of the trends and make new designs with every season, keeping the items affordable and versatile.
What is your favorite product from your shoppe and why?
My personal favorite to wear is the Starry Night Gemstone and leather cuff bracelet. I am usually such a minimalist with my own wardrobe and jewelry selection, so making and wearing this piece was shocking to me. The cuff is so comfortable and fun to play with (the beads spin and are ideal for a fidgety person). It is quite the show piece and I receive the most compliments on this design.
When I’m not busy working or designing, I am doing one of two things; playing with my beautiful little girls or crafting items out of natural wool and eco-friendly felt. Sometimes I am doing both! My girls are my inspiration and my biggest supporters. They love to model my jewelry and are always providing suggestions on what I should make next. I even receive draft sketches from my darling 6 year old. I have two budding artists on my hands! I used to love working out and being outside on the farm; but honestly my favorite times now are creating jewelry while chatting with my little girls and having my rescue pup keeping my feet warm. I am in heaven.
What do you like best about The Artisan Group?
I am still in shock that I was accepted into The Artisan Group! My Etsy BFF (Cylene of TheLovelySmith) suggested that we apply, and I am now a part of an amazingly talented and immensely supportive team. Valerie and the other artists have helped build my confidence as a designer and continually provide invaluable business support. Since joining the group last year, I have taken part in the GBK 2012 Primetime Emmys gift lounge, GBK 2013 Oscars gift lounge, and have had the opportunity to gift celebrities such as Giada De Laurentis, Alison Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, Bethenny Frankel, Trista Rehn Sutter, and Brandi Glanville.
My biggest success came when the wardrobe designer of The Vampire Diaries selected my Elena Goddess bracelet to be worn on the show (submitting my bracelet for consideration was another amazing opportunity provided by TAG).
Julie recently participated as a display participant in a luxury celebrity gift lounge on September 21-22, 2012 at The W Hotel in Hollywood California, in honor of the The 2012 Primetime Emmys Nominees and Presenters.
Julie says
Thank you so much Valerie and the TAG team!!!!
Mindy1208 says
Julie is such a talented and beautiful young lady. I know she will do well in all of her endeavors.
ChocolateDogStudio says
Julie does a great job creating all of her jewelry.
muffintopdesigns says
Julie is one of the most inspirational artists I know, not to mention one of the sweetest people on earth! her success is well deserved! congrats and LL!!!!!
xoxooxoxo
Catcophony says
Gorgeous jewelry and the Sweet Pea Boutique with your ecofriendly felt-so adorable! Loved it all and getting to know you a little better. Much success! D
Veryprettything says
I love this bracelet!
brandimiller says
Great interview! I love Julie’s work.
angie says
Beautiful work, Julie!
Allison says
Very nice work! I especially like the dove earrings http://www.etsy.com/listing/105161948/paloma-earrings-silver-ornate-filigree?ref=shop_home_active&ga_search_query=dove
Rachel says
Julie’s bracelets are my favorite! They really speak to my love of rocks and gemstones, but also buttons; I’m a big-time button freak! You do beautiful work, Julie!
Deb LaScuola says
I absolutely love Julie’s bracelets!
GHdesigns says
Great article, Julie! Love your work!!