Hello, beautiful! As another month passes us by, I am reminded of how quickly time flies. However, I am also reminded of the beauty and talent that can be found in this world, for example, this month's spotlight, Lily. Have you ever visited a small business market or pop-up shop and fallen in love with someone's creations? That's exactly what happened to me when I attended the Mama's Maker's Market in Phoenix earlier this year and met Lily. Her gorgeous one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces caught my eye but her sweet & welcoming personality was even more beautiful! She told me all about her process of making her epoxy resin home goods. We had a lovely conversation, and I'm so grateful to have met her. Lily is a super creative, intelligent, and kind woman, and you'll discover just how talented she is by reading her interview. So, let me introduce to you the beautiful Lily of Lily Roses Co.
- What is your creative talent? "My creative talent at this moment is making epoxy resin home goods, creating the silicone molds for the resin pieces I make, and making disco decor! I find thrifted glass and ceramics to make my molds and I like to focus on using natural materials in my work — I pick, press and dry all the flowers and leaves myself! I've always loved creating with my hands, so it's been a dream to make it into a profession. I've just added ceramics and pottery wheel throwing to my list of creative talents now (still very much learning)!"
- If your closest friends had to describe you, how would they do so? "I believe my closest friends would describe me as loyal, compassionate, empathetic and goofy! I love to make my friends laugh and I am always around to lend an ear to good news, bad news and everything in between."
- What are some of your best/favorite accomplishments? "I am proud of many things I've done in my life so far, but my most memorable was that I got my BA in fashion marketing while living in Paris on my own for two years. I continued my classes in Shanghai and I received an internship in Amsterdam to finish off my schooling. That is probably my biggest personal achievement — I learned so much about who I am and how I experience the world. The fashion industry is pretty cutthroat but it was an amazing opportunity that solidified an appreciation for artistry and innovation. That led me to bring my creative skills and my love of art into focus."
Lily elaborated on her favorite quote and I had to share it was just too good! "Observe, don't absorb." In this super fast-paced world, it's hard not to be affected by so many things going on, whether it be what's happening around the world or in my own personal life. I try to remember to observe and take in what I experience but not let it overwhelm or influence me in an overly negative way. Even just the day to day can be tough sometimes so just take it in, take a deep breath, and keep going :)"
- If you have a business please explain what you do and how we can support you. "I am the owner and artist behind LilyRoses Co! I currently sell my work at local markets and pop-ups in the valley, through my website, at a local shop in Phoenix called The Merchantile, and I do custom work through Instagram. I am working towards creating an online store that offers not only my handmade works but also the works of other artists. At the moment I help sell my father's wood-turned creations; he has been turning wood for about 12 years and brings blocks of wood and old gnarled fallen trees new life. We have done a few collaborative pieces with his wood and my resin. I’m slowly adding products to my market display including curated candles and novelty matchboxes that have artwork on them all by different artists! I want to support artists like myself and share my love of art and handmade works. I am getting into teaching a few classes, so look out for a disco pumpkin-making class this fall, last year was a hit!"
- What advice would you give the younger generation about life and or about going after the career or hobby you currently have? "To quote the renowned Shia LeBeof's motivational video, "Don't let your dreams be dreams, yesterday you said tomorrow, so just do it!" But in all seriousness, I highly encourage everyone to at least try going for what they want, you never know until you try and you just might succeed."
Lily is a remarkable woman who embodies creativity, kindness, intelligence, and entrepreneurship. Her unique talent in creating epoxy resin home goods and her love for natural materials has resulted in gorgeous, one-of-a-kind pieces that you'll fall in love with. I recently purchased a custom ring holder from her and it is easily one of my favorite things. During the interview with Lily, I was struck by her favorite quote, "Observe don't absorb." It serves as a powerful reminder in our digital age. She is an exceptional business owner who is always eager to support other artists in her community. Lily's inspiring journey and the passion she brings to her work serves as a reminder that we can all find success by pursuing our dreams and staying true to our creative vision. Lily, you are definitely Creatively Linked!
