My favorite things
(and people)
Way too awesome for words, these friends, makers and local loves have inspired, supported and invigorated me through the years.
I want to share their work with you in hopes you discover something that brings you joy too!
Atelier 101 VT
If you happen to be heading to the Mad River Valley in Vermont, be sure to stop by Alicja Costanza and Stephanie Grace's working studio and retail gallery. You'll be able to see work in progress, and beautiful collections by both artists. You'll also find a Melle Finelli Jewelry collection mingling in the mix. This is a gem of a shop. You won't be able to leave empty handed.
Jennifer Chin
Meet fellow, fabulous Boston jeweler, Jennifer Chin. Her beautiful pieces remind me of the intricate patterns in nature. As though they are alive, these delicate patterns, collectively create this bold, sculptural work. They are totally touchable, and definitely delightful. See for yourself!
Cleo Soaps
Meet Claudia Zanes, soap maker extraordinaire!
I came across her beautiful soaps while looking for a face cleanser with zero waste packaging. Not only did I fall in love with her gentle, handmade formulas, but I was so taken when reading about her process. In Claudia's own words...
“For me, soap making is very much like music making. It calls for creativity, focus, vision, heart, improvisation, patience, and a love of joyous possibilities that can be shared with the world.”
Have a look at her website, be inspired and prepare to be squeaky clean!
Curio Spice Co.
Looking to spice things up? There is only one place to go. Curio Spice! This shop is amazing, and the aroma! Curio Spice Co. has so much going for it. Owner, Claire Cheney, has visited and worked on spice farms all over the world sourcing the finest spices for her shop. You'll find everything from rare spices and artful blends. it's MMMM MMM MAGIC!
Nicole Deponte
Nicole's work will deliver visual delights with her strong sense of color and fluid organic shapes. Her pieces are filled with life and made with so much love.
I love watching the instagram reels of her process.
It's as though her paintbrush is dancing on the paper. Her work very much reflects the beautiful person she is.
If you are an accessory fanatic, check out her amazingly crafted, upcycled necktie scarfs. They are sculptural and feel so decadent.
Fire Opal
Fire Opal in Brookline, Massachusetts holds a special place in my heart. This beautiful Gallery has been showing the finest American Handmade Craft since 1984.
It was also the first shop to ever show my work back in their original JP location. Owners, Sue Stein and Steve Murakishi not only have an amazing eye, but are such a huge support to the artists they work with. They have truly built a craft family filled with love. You will feel it when you walk in the door.
Brie Flora
This artist makes color and form explode with excitement, and has the personality to match! Meet Brie Flora. Her work simply makes me smile.
Happiness with the perfect touch of attitude. It's something we need so much of right now.
Betsy Giberson
Meet Betsy Giberson and her wonderful world of curiosity.
Not only do I adore Betsy, but I appreciate the way she sees things.
I love the flow of her fabrics and the organic nature of her patterns and palate. It's as though they are alive and reflecting the beauty in the world around her.
Simply divine.
Gabrielle Gould
Meet Gabrielle Gould and her world of wonder. A modern day hunter and gatherer, Gabrielle incorporates the delights of her surroundings. She incorporates organic found objects in each piece. Meticulously handcrafted, these pieces are delicate, curious and an absolute joy. Have a peek at her website and enjoy!
Scabby Robot by Jill Harrell
Meet the delightful Jill Harrell. Her bags are as spectacular as she is.
The modern, sculptural shape is a stunner and is as functional as it is beautiful. It will easily become a favorite in your bag rotation.
These supple leather bags are built to last. Each piece is cut, sewn and finished with by hand. Her bags are simply fabulous.
Sarah Jane Hassler
Meet Sarah Jane, queen of acrylic with the happiest of palates. This work is bold, yet delightfully lightweight.
Full of movement and good energy, Just like the maker!
We have been collaborating on a fun loving collection, MJ Jewelry Lab. Check out our one of a kind pieces on my website.
Lauren HB Studio
Meet Lauren Herzak-Bauman. I recently met this wonderful person at the 2022 Smithsonian Craft show, and was immediately drawn to her work. Her sculptures, made from porcelain, are subtle and full of life. The pieces appear to be in motion, like they might be breathing in their stillness. It was wonderful to meet this delightful being, and am happy her work is a part of my personal collection of beautiful and curious things. Check out her website and be inspired.
In Fieri
This decadent, independent perfume lab creates In Fieri scents made between Italy and LA that are deliciously exciting. They also focus on exotic, hypnotic, sensual scents from around the globe.
It has been my go parfumerie for feel-good, out of the ordinary scents. Each perfume is crafted in small batches, using thoughtful practices and sustainable sourced ingredients. Their descriptions of the scents are spot on, and ordering samples is super easy. Indulge and treat yourself. You'll be happy you did!
Betty Jäger
Meet heavy metal babe and over all beautiful person, Betty Jäger, Her gorgeously fierce jewelry is crafted to become a forever piece in your collection. Doesn't hurt she's a supporter of all humankind.
If you ever get to meet her in person, it's instant love.
Nicario Jimenez
I can't say enough about Nicaro's magnificent sculptures. In making his Retablos, his only tool is a glorified wooden toothpick!
Behind the doors of these portable wooden boxes, you'll find tiny handcrafted figurines telling stories reflecting religion, history and everyday life. They burst with color and amazement! They are joyful pieces and I hope they make you smile.
to shop- retablosnicario.square.site
Christy Klug
Form, color, opulence, decadence and plenty of curiosity. Oh, and don't forget a touch of bling. It's all here ready to be discovered. This work will make you feel strong and feminine.
Amber Marshall
I absolutely adore Amber and her sculptural glass pieces. With a perfect combination of intention and play, she makes the most luscious organic forms. When I look at her work, it's as though they are alive. Take a peek at her pouffes and you will see what I mean.
Melissa Mytty
If pinch pots could speak, these guys would speak volumes! This work is so filled with personality. There is no way it won't make you smile! Meet Melissa Mytty and her unexpected wonderful world of making.
Amy Nguyen
Meet fellow Bostonian, neighbor and friend, Amy Nguyen. I think thoughtfulness is Amy's superpower. Not only as a person, but it is so evident in her work. Amy brings together line, shape, color, form and pattern to create meticulously crafted wearable textiles. Her pieces organically interact with the body, as though they are one.
It is truly breathtaking work.
NOAT
If you are looking to brighten someone's day, I suggest a NOAT card.
Jennifer Lucey-Brzoza's beautifully designed cards are smart, sophisticatedly witty and make my heart glow. The recipient will feel the love. Check them out. They are simply the best cards ever!
Shannon Owen
Meet Shannon Owen, needle felting extraordinaire and maker of all things wonderful. Meet her delightfully curious felted friends from worlds unknown. Let them take you places you never even knew you wanted to go. Let the journey begin.
Gina Pannorfi
Meet Gina Pannorfi, an overall fabulous human being with amazing sensibilities. If you love tactile wearable fiber, she is your connection.
Her silk and felt combinations are so alive with color and texture, you'll just want to wrap yourself up! Gina's luscious silks, and her batik patterns are rhythmic, delicate and complex (yes, all at the same time).
They can't help but make you feel so special (which you are).
PATCH NYC
Entering through the iron gate to the courtyard at 46 Waltham street in the South End, is like taking a step back in time. Tucked around the corner, you'll find the magical world of PATCH NYC. It's filled to the brim with amazing gifts for the home, fantastic bags and scarves, scented candles, Persian ceramics and vintage finds. Their world is such a delightful place to visit, and it's impossible to leave empty handed.
Heidi Paul
If you need to smile, go see Heidi Paul. Seriously. She is yet another one of my inspiring maker friends, and the only person that helps me make sense of New England winters. Her repurposed cashmere is not only SO cozy, but imaginatively created into soft sculptures for the body. Cozy, warm and super stylish? Yep, it's the perfect combination. Thank you Heidi us keeping me warm.
And when in Stinson Beach, CA visit her gallery- it's a gem!
MADE Contemporary Craft Gallery
Monique Rancourt
If rock and roll could be visualized in an ultra organic universe, you'd come across Monique Rancourt's metalwork. Fearless, beautiful forms, and meticulously crafted. You will easily get lost in the complexities of these wondrous designs.
@moniquerancourtjewelry
Monique Rancourt Artisan Gallery
If you find yourself in Waltham, Monique Rancourt Artisan Gallery is a must see.
The galley is curated with amazing contemporary hand made work, including ceramics, glass, wearable fiber and jewelry. This gem of a space also houses Monique's studio, where she creates her amazing jewelry. You can browse the delightful collections on offer and have a glimpse of how her work is made. Pop in and say hello! You'll find the collections irresistible!
Geoff Buddie & Chris Rom
Husband and wife team, Geoff and Chris take common materials and use them in uncommon ways.
Their pieces appear visually uncomplicated. When you engage with them, you'll notice how meticulously crafted, and very smart they are. Their work is filled with curiosity and makes me smile.
Check out this dynamic duo's website to explore their wonderful work.
They are just as fabulous as their creations!
Rugg Road Paper Co.
I am a big letter writer. I always have a stash of cards on hand. This charming shop on Charles Street not only has the best card selection ever, but the folks working there must love what they do. They are so personable and friendly. It's a very happy place. I pretty much wanted to buy everything. Their custom printing also has rave reviews. Next time you are in the neighborhood, check them out and see.
Saipua
This is my go to soap when I am in need of a luxurious treat. I love that they are thoughtfully handmade on a farm in the Hudson Valley. The ingredients are pure, and the scents are subtle and divine. Your body and mind will thank you!
to shop soap saipua.com/soap-studio
Sugio Sweets
I don't think there are words for how good these sweet treats are.
Not only are they smooth, rich, delicious bonbon's, they are so visually stunning it's almost hard to eat them. (almost!)
It will be hard to pick your favorites. I recommend trying them all!
Your sweet tooth will thank you!
Donna Veverka
Inspired by history and architecture these pieces will connect you to an ancient, romantic world. Impressive in their minute details, These architectural wonders will make you want to shrink yourself down, and head on inside!
Rebellion Bags by Stephanie Wheat
Meet Stephanie Wheat. Stephanie's absolute delightfulness shines through in her work. Her bags are timeless classics. Made with luxurious materials, they are beautifully constructed and have a playful sensibility.
Did I mention they are as beautiful as they are functional?
Smiles and wows guaranteed!