Phoenix Vendor Spotlight: Melis Accessories
How would you describe your style? Are there any artists / designers that you particularly look up to?
I guess the best way to describe my style is a gypsy rockstar! A bit of an edge with a free spirited gypsy vibe. I love the freedom of expression and sharing in spreading positive energy and happiness to one another.
We are all energy and the positivity of enjoying each moment is contagious. If I can help my customers focus on today and enjoy the little moments, then my job is done and my journey as a designer has purpose.
What do you feel makes your work unique and truly your own?
I feel my work is unique because of how the accessories make you feel! Many times we buy accessories because we like them, which we all want of course. But my accessories bring out something different in everyone.
Countless times I get feedback from my customers that my cuff or bracelet makes them feel so “cool," even if they are very conservative and do not wear statement pieces or much jewelry at all. Their vibe changes while wearing the jewelry and there is not a better gift than that as a designer.
What sort of things inspire you? Where do you look for inspiration?
I have to say I am truly inspired by color and textures. My process always begins with something raw that I see; a material, a stone, a piece of art or sculpture. I then create incorporating how I feel and the message that I want to convey or inspire someone else to feel. I went on a very personal journey about a year ago and through that very positive and enlightening path I designed my new lines Energie and Henergie. I definitely learned that when you are authentic and true to yourself as a designer, the designs and inspiration are one in the same.
When do you feel the most creative?
I am actually most creative when I am sad or on crunch time…it is such an extreme difference I know. But both actually do not allow too much time to think and I am forced to make decisions instead of the possibilities of change or direction. When I am saddened or stressed, my mind shuts off and my feelings go into my designs, but I will not put the time into it as I would if I was happy thus not a need for change. When I am on crunch time I have to make the decisions and my mind chooses things and processes differently. The need to not have the “Maybe” is extremely important in my creative process.
What is your creative process like?
My creative process really begins with an idea and the medium I choose comes second. The design process determines the medium. I always say that there is something about an artist’s mind that allows us to see and create without barriers. There are challenges and we always find the solutions.
What's the coolest artistic tip you've ever received?
The best tip I received was from a very successful man a long time ago. He said "NEVER listen to someone else’s ideas or opinions!! Stay true to yourself and your designs.” We all have a message to share in all aspects of design including painting, sculpting, music or designing. We create from our soul and it is an expression of who we are. Others like to project opinions and unsolicited advice that can steer you in the wrong direction.
If you stay uninfluenced by others and believe in your path, no matter how many No’s or negative feedback you receive, you will get where you are supposed to be. Stay Positive and Stay True to yourself and the possibilities are endless.
Where can we learn more about you?
You can find out more about me on my website at www.melis.com