02.20.08
My Interview with Lori, Owner of Sparkle Bee Gems
Meet Lori Mendenhall, Owner of Sparkle Bee Gems at www.members.cox.net/lorimendenhall
Where are you located? Orange County, CA
What do you design? Jewelry featuring organic and abstract design. I feature polymer clay in most of my work because it truly sets my jewelry apart from others and it’s so much fun to work with! I’ve also begun incorporating resin into my pieces and I am very excited about the results.
Where/How did you learn this? Reading a ton online, participating in forums, buying books, and experimentation are the ways I learned almost everything.
Favorite Artist who inspires you? Lisa Pavelka, Julie Picarello.
Where does your inspiration come from? Many of my polymer clay designs look like they are from under a microscope. I love that organic feel coupled with some sparkle.
What do you do to combat creative block? Just put away and do something else. The more common problem is not having enough time to try all the things I’m envisioning!
Where do you design your creations? I’ve got a studio in my house - it’s actually a large retreat area in my bedroom.
What does your work space look like right now? It’s very organized but right now it’s a bit messy. New pendants waiting to be put away, receipts on the floor, and several pieces of finished jewelry waiting to be packaged up to send to “Bead Trends” magazine.
How does your family feel about what you do? Love and hate! My kids hate when it takes me away from them but they love the things I create. My husband is very proud of what I’ve accomplished but he gets mad when it impacts my household responsibilities.
Do you have any advice for someone looking to make their own creations using this method? Yes, do not be afraid to experiment and ask questions. Research a lot because there is a ton of info out there and people are very generous with their assistance.
Best advice you received when starting your business venture? Don’t underprice, even thought I still do in many cases.
Favorite part of owning your own business? Having all my supplies paid for.
Least favorite? Always trying to get into a buying situation.
How do you relax? Classic movies! B&W only. Love reading non-fiction too.
Favorite color? Copper, Black, really all colors depending on the context.
Does this color show up in a lot of your work? Definitely, I do tend to work with monochromatic designs, and also do a lot with neutral colors because that’s what sells best and what looks best to me.
If there were more hours in the day, what would you be doing? Reading, experimenting with all kinds of materials, shopping, watching old movies, lunching with friends, walking, baking, getting hugs from my kids.
A sample of Sparkle Bee Gems products. For all products, please visit Lori’s website.
