Where are you from and does that affect your work? I’m from Southern California. I love playing up southern California botanicals in our products, from Citrus to eucalyptus and Rosemary.

How did you get your start? While working my before job, I was on an audit and my manager at the time told me she made her own soap. I have a sister with severe psoriasis, and my husband, son and father all have eczema, I thought this could help! Crazy as it was that was the beginning in 2014…She came over and showed me how to make soap and from that point I could not stop. I was addicted and evidently on a mission to make the best bars I possibly could. I developed my recipe in 2018 and went to a craft show. It rained and we still did amazing. Some of those customers are still with us today. In 2018, I met Amanda from Me Mother Earth at a craft fair and began making soap for her company. I love her mission and business model. Amanda gave me an opportunity to take what I was doing and make it better. Better for the earth, too! She challenged me to source my ingredients sustainably (not greenwashed, but sustainably), use no plastic in our packaging and to make products that I wasn’t even familiar with yet. Like solid dish soap, stain remover and pet shampoo in a bar. This aligned with my values and pushed me to be a better version of myself.

What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? Now the hardest part is getting the time to create new items. But when we do it it’s always exciting. Our newest creation is our Cashmere soap! But we have a list of others that we can’t wait to do.

What is your favorite item that you have created and why? for me it’s the Peppermint and Tea Tree bar. It was the first bar that I replaced full fat organic Coconut milk in place of goats milk. The coconut milk and shea butter was a game changer in the bar. A super punch to the lather and to the moisturizing properties of the soap.  I’ll never go back and now our bars are plant based and vegan, with the exception of beeswax in a couple products.

What do you love most about Pasadena? A lot, but it was at Jackalope under the giant trees with the grass under my feet in 2021 that I made the decision to leave my career and follow my heart. I have not regretted it once. The community at Jackalope gave me the confidence to pursue my passion full-time and the art faire helped me grow my customer base.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? I am a certified Public Accountant gone rogue! What I do now is so much more fun. I have been a girl scout and scout leader for most of my life, this path in some ways feels like a continuation of it. Doing the right thing, this feels like I am exactly where I am supposed to be.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hopefully opening another Feel Good Market with my amazing team. I am not alone in this anymore!  In five years, I’d like to know that I made a difference.

Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?
2 things - Learn from everyone, and never stop pursuing how you, your business or your art can become better. I asked people what they wanted and tried to incorporate my customers’ needs into my craft. Have a plan - My business started as a side hustle until I was able to leave my job. It was scary but was totally worth it.

Anything special that you would like to share? My little soap business started as Mama’s Handmade Sudsy Soap, a way to get my kids to make money selling soap, but it has grown into Feel Good Market, a Soapery, Refillery and Boutique. A sustainable store that I am so proud of!  I get to do what I love, to promote living sustainably, provide jobs and security for others, and to support other small businesses and artisans!  I never, in a million years, thought that this is where I would be, but I am so glad that I am here.

We love being able to watch you take on this journey!

Find Feel Good Market at Jackalope Pasadena on November 15th & 16th.

Website: www.feelgoodmarket.com/

Instagram: @feelgoodmarket_

Where are you from and does that affect your work? I’m born and raised in Inglewood, and I’ve always stayed close to my roots here. LA has this energy that pushes you to build something real, not just talk about it. You’re surrounded by people who are creating, taking risks, and turning ideas into businesses. That definitely fuels how I approach Pecan Amor. I still sell at farmers markets (Inglewood every Saturday!) & I talk to customers face-to-face, getting constant real-time feedback from the community I’m so proud to be part of.

How did you get your start? It began with a family recipe given to me from my mother. For years, she made candied pecans for holidays and gatherings, and friends would always tell me, “You got something good here. ” When she passed the original recipe to me, we started making small batches in different varieties and explored with flavors not expected on a pecan. We started selling at local farmers markets & specialty events and the response was immediate — people connected not just to the flavor, but to the story. That’s when I knew this wasn’t just a snack — it was something meaningful I wanted to build.

What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? Scaling while staying true to the craft. Everything we make is still small-batch and handmade, and that takes time. This is especially true when you consider that we currently offer seven flavors: Cinnamon Crunch, Peppermint Crunch, Sweet & Spicy, Smoked Honey BBQ, Chili Lime, Garlic Parm & Simply Salted. As we grow, we place an emphasis on ensuring each batch is roasted to perfection just like the very first one.

What is your favorite item that you have created and why? Our Smoked Honey BBQ pecans. This one took the most work to get right — we tested batch after batch

until we nailed that potato-chip level crunch and bold, smoky flavor that keeps you coming back. It hits sweet, savory, salty, spicy and smoky all in one bite. A lot of people don’t expect a pecan to taste like that, and that’s exactly why I love it — it represents what we’re trying to do as a brand: take pecans somewhere new.

What do you love most about Pasadena? Pasadena has this perfect mix of creativity and community. There’s a real appreciation here for craft — people value handmade work and want to know the story behind what they buy. Places like the RoseBowl Flea, indie storefronts on Colorado St, and events like Jackalope allow makers like us to feel seen and supported.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? I’m bilingual — I speak English and American Sign Language. I started learning ASL over two decades ago and still use it regularly.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? We see Pecan Amor on shelves nationwide but still proudly from Los Angeles, with a growing line of products that expand what’s possible with the pecan. We’ll also continue our efforts of giving back to the communities that have given us so much. 

Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?
Start small and start now. Don’t wait for perfection. You don’t need everything figured out before you begin. Just focus on making something people love, tell the story behind it, and keep showing up. Consistency beats perfection every time.

Anything special that you would like to share? We’re on a mission to reimagine the pecan — bold flavors, clean ingredients, and snacks that don’t taste like everything else on the shelf.

Find Pecan Amor at Jackalope Pasadena on November 15th & 16th.

Website: https://pecanamor.com/

Instagram: @pecanamor

Where are you from and does that affect your work? I am an illustrator and woodcraft artist, born and raised in Shanxi, a province at the heart of China’s ancient timber architecture. As a child, I visited the Pagoda of Fogong Temple, a 220-foot-tall structure built entirely with wooden joinery and standing for nearly a thousand years without a single nail. I also explored the Hanging Temple, where timber beams are embedded into the cliff face, supporting entire rows of wooden halls suspended above the rock.

These experiences captivated me with the strength and elegance of wood, quietly shaping my path and inspiring me to dedicate myself to the art of woodcraft.

How did you get your start? I first discovered woodworking while studying Illustration at ArtCenter College of Design. In a laser-cutting workshop, I realized wood could be cut as easily as paper. I experimented by turning one of my drawings into a wooden piece, and the result was so striking that I couldn’t stop exploring. What started as a simple experiment quickly became a passion: I taught myself through countless tutorials and even took off-campus classes in furniture-making and more.

When ArtCenter hosted a student market, I created my first product—a pig-shaped coaster—that eventually became the logo of my brand, CuddlyWood. The market was packed, and seeing people line up for something I had made was the moment curiosity turned into the path I continue to follow today.

What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? My creative process usually begins with extensive sketching. Once a concept feels right, I translate it into a vector in Illustrator, then move on to modeling and generating toolpaths. This early stage—the exploration and refinement—is always the most challenging. I’m constantly chasing a balance: the work needs to read as clean and clear, yet still carry enough detail to feel alive.

Even after completing a few collections, I thought creating new designs would come more easily—but it never does. Each piece still demands patience and close attention, and that careful, at times frustrating process is what ultimately shapes the work I’m proud to share.

What is your favorite item that you have created and why? My favorite collection is definitely Guilty Puppy. I can’t really choose just one piece—they’re all irresistibly cute in their own way. The idea actually came from my own dog. One day she stole an entire plate of beef and gave me this hilarious guilty side-eye. I couldn’t help but laugh.

That moment stuck with me, and I started noticing similar expressions everywhere. I collected thousands of photos of mischievous dogs and spent hours sketching them. And to my delight, people connected with the collection just as much as I did.

What do you love most about Pasadena? I spent five years studying at ArtCenter, which is located in Pasadena, and the city will always hold a special place in my heart. I especially love how walkable it is—surrounded by graceful architecture, lush nature, and countless small discoveries, from charming shops to pop-up markets like Jackalope, not to mention wonderful food. Even though I no longer live there, I often find myself returning to wander and explore.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? A fun fact is that I fall asleep incredibly fast—almost like flipping a switch. Since I started woodworking, it happens even faster, as if someone just knocked me out’s not the most glamorous talent, but it does keep me powered through long days in the studio.

What’s more glamorous than beauty sleep?! I’m jealous! Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Looking five years ahead, I envision our brand becoming more fully formed as we continue to introduce new designs. The work itself will evolve as well—expanding beyond 2D pieces into 3D sculptures. I also hope to collaborate more with museums, while still maintaining a presence at craft fairs, which I believe is one of the most meaningful and direct ways to connect with our audience.

At the same time, we’re developing courses to share the joy of woodworking with others. For me, it has never been only about building a brand, but about fostering a community around the beauty, warmth, and creativity that wood can inspire.

Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?
Enjoy what you do. Don’t let too many things disrupt your own rhythm—whether it’s from those close to you or from strangers.

Try to seek out opportunities where you can receive immediate feedback—like joining a market or sharing your work publicly. Every bit of feedback, whether it feels like success or failure, is a precious step forward.

Once you choose to start off on your own, embrace lifelong learning. Build the courage to solve problems and face setbacks with resilience. These qualities may take time to grow, but they will reward you for a lifetime.

Anything special that you would like to share? Jackalope Pasadena was the very first market we joined since founding our brand, and it gave us tremendous confidence and encouragement. We truly hope to see Jackalope continue to flourish, and we look forward to creating more and seizing future opportunities to be part of the Jackalope markets again.

We appreciate you & feel so honored to watch you grow & flourish as well!

Find CuddlyWood at Jackalope Pasadena on November 15th & 16th.

Website: www.cuddlywood.com

Instagram: @cuddlywood_

Where are you from and does that affect your work? I live in Mariposa, CA, a foothill town in the Sierra Nevada, right along the boundary of Yosemite National Park. This landscape shapes everything I do. The seasons here are dramatic—summers and autumns bring fire and renewal, winters bring rain, snow and rockfall, and spring is an explosion of wildflowers and rushing rivers. Living in this kind of environment has taught me that beauty isn’t something static; it’s born of change, cycles, and resilience. The mountains and rivers are my teachers, and every perfume or hydrosol I create carries their imprint. 

How did you get your start? I’ve always been drawn to plants—their beauty, their fragrance, and the way they connect us to something beyond words. When I became a mother in 2009, I turned to herbalism and aromatherapy as a way to care for my family naturally. I studied under Jade Shutes at the School for Aromatic Studies, and what began as a personal interest soon grew into a lifelong path.

That curiosity eventually led me into gardening and distillation then, later, into the world of natural perfumery. My first perfume class was in 2019 with the late Jeanne Rose in her San Francisco home, followed by studies with Mandy Aftel. With my background in aromatherapy, I was captivated by the expanded palette perfumery offered and enchanted by the artistry of scent itself.

During the pandemic, I immersed myself in hundreds of oils—training my nose, watching how each one evolved, and noting the emotions and memories they stirred. In building this personal “scent library,” I came to see just how deeply smell connects to the limbic system, where memory, emotion, instinct, and intuition live. That study unlocked something profound—my intuition sharpened, my perspective shifted, and I began experiencing the world in an entirely new way.

That was the turning point: I realized scent isn’t just about smelling good. It goes straight to the heart of who we are—able to shift mood, awaken memory, expand awareness, and spark transformation.

Resonance Perfumery was born out of more than 14 years of study and personal evolution. 

What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? Patience. Plants move on their own timeline, and perfumes are the same way. Some blends come together quickly, while others can take months—or even years—to find their true harmony. My role is to listen, to wait, and to let the materials show me when they’re ready. It’s a constant practice in surrender and trust.

Radiance

What is your favorite item that you have created and why? Radiance, my first perfume, will always be my favorite. It came together so effortlessly and has become the one I wear most. Bright with citrus, elegant with neroli, and softened by botanical musk, it feels like stepping into your own golden hour. For me, Radiance is a reminder that we all carry an inner light—we just need a little help remembering it.

What do you love most about Pasadena? What I love about Pasadena is its balance between heritage and innovation—it feels a lot like Resonance in that way. The city honors its roots through its gardens, architecture, and historic charm, but it also has this fresh, creative energy that celebrates new ideas and artistry. For me, that mix is inspiring. It’s the perfect backdrop for bringing makers, seekers, and community together.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? Something people are often surprised to learn is that I’m also a Master in Intuition Medicine®. That means I’ve trained to read and understand subtle energy—like energy literacy. This work allows me to sense the vibrational language of plants and the world around me, which directly influences how I create perfumes. I don’t just build them as fragrances, but as companions that can support emotional and energetic balance.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In five years, I see Resonance Perfumery blossoming into a full apothecary studio—a space where people can explore not just perfumes, but the living waters of plants, workshops, and rituals designed to reconnect us with ourselves and with the Earth. My hope is for Resonance to be both a perfume house and a sanctuary for healing, community, and creative alchemy.

Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?
Trust your own pace. It’s easy to feel pressure to be everywhere at once, but the most authentic work comes when you slow down and really listen—to yourself, to your craft, and to what feels aligned. Growth that’s steady and rooted in authenticity will last far longer than growth that’s rushed.

Anything special that you would like to share? This November’s fair will be my Los Angeles debut, and I’m so excited to share my perfumes and freshly distilled hydrosols with this community. Each bottle is created as more than a fragrance—it’s an invitation to pause, breathe, and come back into resonance with yourself and the natural world.

We are so excited to smell everything so soon!

Find Resonance Perfumery at Jackalope Pasadena on November 15th & 16th.

Website: www.resonanceperfumery.com

Instagram: @resonanceperfumery

Heather C. Morrow

Where are you from and does that affect your work? I’m rooted in Altadena, and after losing my home and studio to the Eaton Fire, my focus shifted entirely to documenting what remained. In July, I premiered my photo exhibit “Bearing Witness: Fragments of Humanity” at the Artists and Makers Gallery in San Gabriel.

On January 7, I left with my dogs and my cameras (just because their might be the opportunity for taking photos).  I never imagined I wouldn’t be returning home.

I believe art holds the power to heal. Surrounding ourselves with beauty can ground us, even in chaos.

Whether I’ll return to ceramics is still uncertain. For now, I’m leaning into photography—capturing moments that help me process, connect, and offer something restorative to my community.

We are so grateful to be able to watch your journey & dive back into your photography as you continue on this path. How did you get your start? My creative path began in the 1970s with a Kodak Instamax and the vibrant energy of Yokosuka, Japan’s festivals dancing through my lens. Watching my parents shoot with their Nikons, I was hooked early—soon becoming the unofficial photographer for high school plays, developing black-and-white film in a makeshift darkroom with my dad.

Over the years, my artistic spirit found new outlets: oil painting, then ceramics, which led me to convert my Altadena garage into a working studio. I sold my pieces at local shows, galleries, and online, always keeping a camera close. Though I embraced digital photography in its early days, it was the pandemic—and the ethereal pull of infrared—that truly reignited my passion.

Inspired by African photographer Piper McKay, I saw a new fusion: photography transferred onto ceramics. I dove into infrared, converted a Nikon mirrorless, and haven’t looked back. Today, I’m constantly exploring, crafting images that speak not just to the eye, but to the soul.

What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? One of the trickiest parts of the creative process is not catching my mistakes in the moment I’m taking the photo. An instructor once told me, “Always check all four corners”—wise advice, but it’s just the beginning. There’s so much more to consider:  light, composition, focus, emotion, intention. It’s easy to get swept up in the scene and miss the subtle details that make or break the shot.

What is your favorite piece that you have created and why? The Golden Tree remains my favorite photograph to date. I captured it in Yosemite during the fall of 2023, surrounded by fellow photographers carefully setting up their tripods. While they prepared, I instinctively moved closer—just me and my handheld camera. At that perfect moment, the sun crested over the granite walls, slicing through the low-hanging fog. Through my lens, the leaves shimmered like golden jewels. I knew instantly I had caught something rare and magical. When printed on metal, the image doesn’t just shine—it radiates.

What do you love most about Pasadena? When I first arrived in Los Angeles over 30 years ago, Colorado Blvd in Pasadena quickly became my favorite haunt—filled with shops, theaters, and that unmistakable charm. I used to wander its sidewalks, catching movies and daydreaming about living nearby someday. Despite being part of the sprawling Los Angeles county, it had a small-town feel that felt personal and inviting. The community’s eclectic spirit and deep love for the arts—from the Pasadena Playhouse to vibrant Art Walks—made it feel like home long before it was.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? I have explored many art forms including painting intricate Ukrainian Easter eggs with wax and dye.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I’m holding onto the hope that I’ll be back in my rebuilt Altadena home well before five years pass. In the meantime, I’m pouring my energy into photography—building it not just as a passion, but as a meaningful business. My goal is for it to become a steady source of income by the time I retire from my day job, and more importantly, a creative legacy rooted in resilience and beauty.

Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?
Starting out as an artist means embracing the scrappy, messy, trial-and-error phase. You have to be willing to stumble—often—and keep going anyway. Not everyone will connect with your work, and that’s okay. It doesn’t mean they’re rejecting you personally. Because art comes from such a vulnerable place, it’s easy to blur the line between self and creation.

 You are your own best advocate—your publicist, marketer, and storyteller. Sure, you can bring in help, but ultimately, it’s your voice, your vision, and your authenticity that people are investing in. And it’s the relationships you build—genuine, lasting ones—that will carry you through the highs and lows of your creative journey.

Anything special that you would like to share? I’m currently working on a deeply personal photography project titled From the Ashes, capturing portraits of individuals who’ve lost their homes—alongside something meaningful they’ve managed to recover. This series will continue through the fall and likely into early next year, and I’m actively seeking participants who are open to sharing their stories. If you or someone you know would like to be involved, please reach out to me at hcmorrow@gmail.com. These stories matter, and I’d be honored to help preserve it through art.

We are so ecstatic to see the community come together this fall!

Find Heather C. Morrow Photography at Jackalope Pasadena on November 15th & 16th.

Website: www.heathercmorrowphotography.com

Instagram: @ascapturedbyheather

Where are you from and does that affect your work? I’m originally from Northridge, but I’ve made Pasadena my creative home. I developed a deep appreciation for beauty in everyday life. That perspective translates directly into my work—I strive to design jewelry that feels personal, meaningful, and timeless.

How did you get your start? I started small, making handmade pieces for myself and close friends. What began as a passion project slowly grew as people connected with my designs. Over time, I took a leap of faith and built my own brand, pouring everything I learned along the way into creating pieces that people would truly love to wear.

What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? The hardest part is knowing when to stop. Because every piece is handmade, I always want to keep adjusting the tiny details until it feels “perfect.” I’ve learned that sometimes beauty comes from imperfection and letting the piece speak for itself.

I feel like that is such a common thread among artists. What is your favorite piece that you have created and why? My favorite is the Love is Protection Bracelet. It’s special because it represents "LOVE". Every time I see it, I’m reminded of why I started this journey with my husband. 

What do you love most about Pasadena? I love the creative energy here—the mix of history, culture, and vibrant community. Pasadena feels like a place that celebrates individuality while still feeling connected, and that inspires me both personally and professionally.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? I’m actually a total plant mom—I have over 30 houseplants, and I talk to them like they’re part of the family.. It often surprises people because it’s so different from what I do day-to-day with jewelry design.

Plants are happiest when showered with love! We will need to catch up on our favorite plants… Where do you see yourself in 5 years?  I see myself growing a brand that not only offers beautiful jewelry but also inspires creativity and connection around the world. I’d love to expand our reach, build a strong community, and continue to create pieces that carry meaning for people’s everyday lives.

Any advice for someone just starting off on their own?
Don’t wait until you feel “ready”—just start. The most important thing is to keep moving forward, learning, and staying true to your vision. Mistakes will happen, but they become stepping stones if you keep showing up with consistency and heart.

Love that - it’s something so many of us need to hear! Anything special that you would like to share?  I’m so grateful for the community that supports handmade artists and small businesses. Every purchase, every kind word, every little interaction makes a huge difference—it keeps dreams like mine alive.

We are so ecstatic to see the community come together this fall!

Find La Meno at Jackalope Pasadena on November 15th & 16th.

Website: www.lamenojewelry.com

Instagram: @lamenojewelry

Sona Parian

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  I'm a native born Armenian who has always loved the wild beauty of the Caucasus and nature as a whole. Though I have grown up in urban LA, my [day]dreams of the rural cottage core life enveloped by the wilderness have remained steadfast in my vision of my future. This vision of the soft, quiet life full of adorable farm animals, loving pets, stuffies, and handmade goods, along with the societal pause of covids stay at home order, collided with what is now Lucifer's Hookery.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences? I pull inspiration from all aspects of my life, real and imagined; from trips to my favorite National Parks, to my weekly visit at the nursery (proud plant mom here), to the daily strolls around my neighborhood, and even the dreams I jot down as soon as I wake up.

My local nursery will get me every time! What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? Stepping out of my comfort zone when it comes to yarn colors and styles has always been a challenge I continue to work on to add more variety and whimsy to my creations. 

What is your favorite piece that you have created and why? This is a tough one! I would have to say my mini Fall stuffies are my favorite. They have so much character for such cute little gals. It's difficult not to love them. 

What do you love most about Pasadena or California in general? Pasadena has been like my home away from home; from my culinary school days to the diverse dining and nightlife, Pasadena is one of my favorite cities in LA. 

Culinary School?! I must know more! What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect?   I'm a great storyteller. I'm dramatic, funny, and very sarcastic, which, as you can tell from this Q&A, makes me wonderful company. 

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?  Living my perfect cottage core life in a Hallmark town that has four seasons, surrounded by all my stuffies and highland cows, and of course, my favorite people too. 

Okay so… clearly everyone’s dream life includes highland cows, because I am totally with you! You have the day off, what do you do?  My perfect day off would include adventures, shopping, and delicious food with people who bring me joy. 

Anything special that you would like to share?  Stop by Lucifer's Hookery to see my newest creations! I promise you'll love them! (No money back guarantee)

We can’t wait to see what you’ll be bringing this fall!

Find Lucifer’s Hookery at Pasadena ARTWalk on September 20th & 21st.

Website: https://lucifershookery.etsy.com/

Instagram: @lucifershookery

Melissa Velia

Where are you from and does that affect your work? I was born and raised in LA County. Growing up in LA surrounded by all this history in culture, fashion and film has inspired my work in different ways. From vintage inspired pieces to Mexican art prints.

I can totally see that. Who/what are your biggest artistic influences? I wouldn’t say I have a particular artistic influence but I could say my work is influenced but different decades in fashion and art. From the 1920’s to the 1980’s

That is so evident & it’s why we’re obsessed! What would you say is the hardest part of your creation process? Getting it wrong. Lol. When I envision something in my head, draw it out, make the sample and it doesn’t come out right, ugh. I feel like a wasted good, fabric, trim, etc. I will then continue to make the same thing over and over until it comes out how I imagined it.

What is your favorite piece that you have created and why? That’s a tough one! I would have to say my shoes clips. I wear those more than anything. I am all about comfort these days. So when I find a perfect comfy shoe or heel, I just slap on any of the many shoe clips we carry to complete my outfit of the day.

They bring such a cool element to every fit. What do you love most about Pasadena or California in general? As you might have picked up on by now, I am a history junkie. I love all the old architecture in Pasadena. There’s so much culture and history to explore and take in.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect?   I hoard books. Some might call it having a library, my family calls it hoarding. Lol. I have books from the 1800s, children’s books, band books, fashion, biographies, you name it. Send me to a book store/ fair and I will be there all day. 

Okay well… you gotta reveal your collection now. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?  Growing! Growing my brand and myself. I have entered a new chapter in my life. Since I sent both my boys of college, I’m ready to hit the floor running with my company and find the parts of me that need a little watering too.

You have the day off, what do you do?  On my day off, I would love to go to a museum or the movies, then go out to dinner at a small restaurant and end the night early with a book, a cocktail and my pjs.

Anything special that you would like to share? I have so many new things coming this Fall to my brand and one of them has been top secret for a bit and that is….I am bringing clothing back to my brand. Its been some years since I’ve carried clothes because my accessories had kept me busy but this Fall we will have one of a kind pieces sprinkled into our collection.

That’s a great sneak peak! We can’t wait to see what you’ll be bringing this fall!

Find Melissa Velia at Pasadena ARTWalk on September 20th & 21st.

Website: https://www.melissavelia.store/

Instagram: @melissavelia

Where are you from and how does that affect your work? I was born and raised in Italy, in a town nested between Mount Vesuvius and the Mediterranean Sea. Growing up in Napoli, with its art, ancient history, and vibrant culture, shaped my entire way of seeing the world. It’s a melting pot of people, colors, and stories, and that energy lives in my work. That’s also why I feel so connected to Southern California, it has a similar creative, sunny, and soulful vibe that feels like home to me.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences? My biggest artistic influence was my grandfather. He was an oil painter, and I grew up surrounded by his canvases, color palettes, and the wonderful smell of paint in the air. We always shared a special connection, and I think that his creative spirit got passed down to me. I also attended art school, and growing up in Italy, art was everywhere, in churches, museums, even the streets! It was a normal (and totally awesome) part of daily life, and it made a big contribution in how I see beauty in the world.

 What is the hardest part of your creation process? As a recovering ☺️  perfectionist, letting go and trusting that a piece is truly “done” can be difficult. Embracing imperfection doesn’t come naturally to me, but I’ve come to realize that nature isn’t perfect either and that’s what makes it so beautiful. I want my work to reflect that same organic, imperfect beauty, even though it’s hard to resist the urge to control every detail. Clay is the perfect medium to learn to let go, and honestly, I find it deeply therapeutic.

As a fellow perfectionist, I get that! What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why? My leaf plates are a delight to make and I’m kind of obsessed with them. I love my quirky bud vases a lot. But if I had to choose just one, I feel a special connection to my “plump” amphora with blue glazes and underglazes. There’s something about it… the shape, the symbols, the deep-sea colors that reminds me of ancient Greece and the Mediterranean sea. It just feels like me.

What do you love most about Burbank? I live in Pasadena and love the whole area so much. Burbank is a vibrant community with an artistic energy, a creative hub with a vintage soul. There’s something magical about being in the heart of the entertainment world with just the right mix of inspiration and charm.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? There's actually a picture of me and a caption with my name inside the Griffith Observatory! I moved from Italy 20 years ago and had the incredible opportunity to work on The Big Picture, the largest astronomical image ever created, alongside a small group of scientists from Caltech. It's still thrilling to know I was part of something so cosmic… literally!

Also, long before that, I founded Soldissimi.it, the very first Italian website dedicated to coupons, sweepstakes, and freebies. This year, it turns 25 and it is still the largest Italian community on that topic!

That is so cool! Where do you see yourself in 5 years? In five years, I see myself with my hands and clothes full of paint, clay, and a little dirt (from collecting rocks and exploring places). I’m drawn to bold colors, transparency, and textures shaped by nature. I have a passion (and a MS) for Geology; my nature plates are inspired by my love for fossils. Whether I’m creating, painting, or just getting lost in the desert with my family, I am happy!

You have the day off, what do you do? If I have a day off, you’ll probably find me out in nature, whether it’s a forest, a desert, a river, or the sea. I crave that peaceful, quiet connection with the natural world. It recharges me, grounds me, and fills me with inspiration. No better way to spend a day than surrounded by beauty and silence. I usually come back with sand in my shoes, a few interesting rocks in my pockets, and a hundred new ideas in my head.

Anything special you’d like to share? I’m so excited to be a part of the Jackalope community, this is my first time participating, and I’m truly looking forward to every smile, kind word, and bit of advice from people attending. What makes it even more special is that my 15-year-old daughter will be with me. She’s an amazing artist in the making, and creating together has always been our happy place. I feel grateful to share this experience with her and with all of you!

Find Simonamadeit at the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival on May 31st & June 1st.

Website: https://www.simonamadeit.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonamadeit

How did Blooming Amethyst get its start?

Blooming Amethyst was born out of a passion for offering something that isn’t always easy to find—truly natural skincare. As an herbalist, I understand the importance of using pure, plant-based ingredients in our everyday routines. We wanted to create products that are completely free from synthetic chemicals and artificial fragrances, allowing people to experience skincare as it was meant to be—simple, effective, and in harmony with nature.

Beyond just creating products, we love educating others about how the evolution of modern skincare has led to an overuse of plastics and harsh chemicals. Our mission is to help people make the shift back to natural, high-quality ingredients that nourish and heal, just as they were originally intended to do.

Very cool. Where did the name come from?
Amethyst is my birthstone, making it a reflection of me and a part of what I’m sharing with the world. The name Blooming Amethyst represents growth, transformation, and the journey of creating something pure and natural.

Love that! What inspires you to create?
I love creating products that I can trust on my own skin and that others can feel good about using too.  

And what is the hardest part of your creation process?
The hardest part of my creation process is achieving consistency in scent and color. Since everything I make is 100% natural, variations naturally occur from batch to batch. People are used to products that look and smell exactly the same every time, but nature has its own seasons. Different harvests bring subtle shifts in scent and color, and while that may seem unpredictable, it’s a reminder that our products are truly derived from nature.    

Sun Glow

Interesting, I would have never considered that. What’s your favorite item that you’ve created, and why?
Sun Glow is my favorite product because it’s truly been a face saver. It’s a daytime facial oil with natural UVA and UVB protection, which is perfect for me since I’m allergic to sunscreen but spend so much time outdoors. It keeps my skin nourished, protected, and glowing without any of the irritation I’d get from traditional sunblocks. 

What do you love most about Pasadena?

What I love most about Pasadena is the ambiance and the people. The city has this perfect balance of energy and relaxation. it's full of life yet has a laid-back feel to it. 

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect?

A fun fact about me that others may not expect is that I’m currently learning American Sign Language (ASL) to become trilingual! I’m really excited about connecting with the Deaf community and embracing new ways of communication. Shout out to the best teacher ever Dr. Tomas.

Wow, super cool! Find Blooming Amethyst at Jackalope Pasadena this April 26th & 27th at Central Park, Old Pasadena AND the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival on May 31st & June 1st.

Website: bloomingamethyst.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Blooming_Amethyst