My artistic journey started long before starting any business endeavours. Ever since I can remember I have been artistic, creating things has always been part of my life; whether it was drawing on every surface imaginable (including my dolls’ heads!), or creating sculptures out of found objects, and braiding bracelets to later sell in Elementary school during lunch, creativity has always been part of my life. After graduating from University with my masters in Architecture, I found that working in an office all day was not what my inner artist needed. I started my pottery business called Geoform Designs where I made pottery out of concrete.

With the birth of our daughter Evelyn and the big remodel of our house, I had to pack away my concrete studio temporarily. During this long process I needed a creative outlet, I was missing the act of making art. I had recently bought a pyrography pen for a Christmas gift I made so I decided to start experimenting with it and materials I already had in hand; I love wearing hats and had so many in my closet so I figured that was a good place to start. That is where my love of burning and creating wearable art really began, once I started I was hooked!

For a year I continued practicing making hats for myself, and for friends, truly honing in on learning new techniques and perfecting the art. I decided to launch Ash & Shades Studios after an overwhelming amount of people asked me where I sold them and how they could purchase a one.

I offer 100% Australian Wool hats that have been manufactured to my specifications (since I am very picky about quality!) they have stiff brims and are made from high quality wool to ensure durability, I do offer vegan options as well. In the next few months I look to expand my wearable lines to genuine leather goods and other items, all with my unique burned and painted designs on them of course.

I’d love for you to join me on this fun ride as I juggle motherhood and starting this new business venture!