When I was a little girl, my parents had regalia made for me so I could dance at pow wows with family and friends. I’ve never been one to want to be the center of attention, so dancing didn’t pan out. But I LOVED visiting the vendors and picking out new beads to make pretty things with. Several daisy chains and a few hand loomed beaded pieces with those beads were how I got my start. Now I love making loomed bracelets, woven and embroidered earrings and necklaces, and more.

I am Anishinaabe from the Sault Ste Marie Chippewa and Little Traverse Bay Odawa in Michigan. I was always told that we’re supposed to put our prayers into the beadwork, and whatever our thoughts were would be carried by the person wearing them. So that’s what I do. Every piece of jewelry I make has thoughts of love and joy with every bead stitched.