What’s your business name and what do you do?
My business is called Nell Lorraine Designs and I am a jewelry designer and goldsmith!
How did you learn your craft?
I attended an art school (Massachusetts College of Art & Design) and got my BFA in jewelry & metalsmithing. I went there with a plan to do ceramics or fashion designs but then fell instantly in love with jewelry making the first hour of my first class that I had signed up for just for fun!
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
The process of creating such small, intricate pieces that will become so much more than an accessory. I love that jewelry has meaning, symbolism, romance and beauty all wrapped up in it. Each piece I create is like it’s own story that will can be worn & enjoyed!
What do you enjoy least?
Anything on the computer. Keeping up with emails, website things, accounting. I hope to have an assistant for some of this someday soon! ;-)
What’s one thing you wish people knew about your work?
How much I truly LOVE creating each piece and how honored I feel that my customers choose me to be the one to make such symbols of their love stories!
What’s one artist you look up to?
This is a hard questions because I enjoy so many artist’s work. I love clay, fibers, fashion, paintings. But to stay in my lane I would say my favorite Jewelry artist is Hannah Blount. Her work is so beautifully created and there is such a feeling behind each piece that leaves me creating an entire story in my mind about it’s meaning.
What do you do when you’re not crafting jewelry?
Snuggle my 3 kids, walk the beach, do yoga, read, travel any chance I get, drink way too much coffee and spend time with my incredible friends, boyfriend & family!
Night owl or early bird?
Neither & both really! I love to get in bed early sometimes and others watch a movie into the late hours of the night while my 3 year old snoozes next to me. Sometimes I love a late night studio session when my home is quiet. For mornings I like to have my coffee, read & have a bit of a cozy morning before starting my day, but would prefer if it wasn’t TOO early (says every mother ever)!
What's your favorite place in Maine?
Anywhere that there is an ocean view and salty air. If it’s warm out & I get feel the sun on my face while to watching my kids run around with bare feet on the sand that is a plus! Being by, or in, the ocean makes me feel extra happy & alive.