Modern Mouse » Artist Profile

Artist Profile: Angelina Fong Designs

Katrina — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 20:03:54 +0000

The Angelina Fong Designs Story
I started my business in April of 2009 and it actually came about more by accident than out of careful planning. I’d been making handmade items for myself and as gifts to friends and family for years. People always told me “you could totally sell this!” but I always thought they were just being nice. To my surprise, around March of last year, I actually started to receive requests to buy my handmade items (mostly from coworkers and friends) and it just took off from there.

In my other life…
My past work experience is mainly in media. I’ve worked in everything from newspaper to movies to radio. I currently work full time in digital marketing.

Did you know?
People used to make fun of me in college for knitting and crocheting, calling me a “grandma”. Then it became trendy. Go figure!

Angelina Fong - Foster City, CA

Artist Profile: Melinda Mae Handbags

Katrina — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:52:15 +0000

The Melinda Mae Handbags Story
I have loved crafts since I was a little girl and had fun making various projects with my sewing machine. It wasn’t until many years later that I realized that I could make some fun handbags for myself that would help compliment my personality and show my unique style. So I started to make handbags that people could display their one of a kind personalities by using fabrics with vibrant colors and patterns. My handbags are also very functional and versatile in which I made specifically for “playful days and soulful nights”.

In my other life…
Sexual Health Educator

Did you know?
I love reminiscing about past memories and funny moments so I am always inspired by retro prints and patterns that remind me of fun times.

I’ve also been known to answer to…
Mel, Mello, sillysunshine =)

Melinda Mae - Fremont, CA

Artist Profile: Bella Beads Originals

Katrina — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 03:03:55 +0000

The Bella Beads Originals Story
I started making jewelry, as a hobby, in 2003. My sister gave me some vintage beads and a beading magazine. That peaked my interest and I took some beading classes. The next thing I knew, friends were asking me to make jewelry for them. And, as they say, the rest is history.

I love the creative process of finding a beautiful strand of beads or a great pendant and creating a piece of jewelry that bring’s a smile and a little bit of happiness into someone’s life. And, I have a thing for making one-of-a-kind pieces. I think it makes people feel special to know they’re the only ones with that particular necklace, bracelet or earrings. It makes their smile even bigger!

In my other life…
My current job is my jewelry business!

Did you know?
I have a wonderful, lovable yellow lab named Schooner. She’s my furbaby and a momma’s girl!

I’ve also been known to answer to…
My husband calls me “love of my life” otherwise, no nickname!

Marguerite Irvine Payne - Alameda, CA