To celebrate our 3rd Year Anniversary, we are going behind the scenes, interviewing ourselves, to show where our roots were planted.
(Yes, I am interviewing myself! Well sort of...)
How did the name Un-Conventional come to be?
"It was sort of random. I thought about several options, and wanted something that was different and reflected my personality. When I thought of myself, the first word I thought of was unconventional. That was a little too normal for me, so I decided to add a hyphon... because I often play with English dialect."
How do you come up with your creations?
"I freeflow my designs. Often my mood, music, and world issues blend into a masterpiece. Other times, they turn into a big mess that I store for later use. In general, most of my creations are influenced by what I like, instead of what is trendy, and often that shoots me in the foot.... but I don't let that get me down!"
I notice your styles are ever changing. Is your mood that much of an influence?
"Yes. Always. However, I never buy supplies in bulk. I am always searching for new vintage beads, chains, pendants, and charms. Then I find these random rare artifacts that make my heart skip... and I see a vision that automatically appears as I purchase it. It is an ongoing thought process sometimes, but I change designs constantly to make them perfect."
People often ask about your pricing. What is the basis of that?
"It is quite easy. My items are all handmade. I put all the beads and chains together, except for the repurposed parts. All the items are high quality and from limited supplies. When they are gone... they are gone. That is because I use vintage and reclaimed materials."
Why did you choose to donate to your two charities, Save the Turtles, Inc. and Marine Mammal Care Center?
"Being a small company, I chose charities that were built upon volunteers. I love that the people that work there, do it because they believe in it. They also do an amazing job. I have been so proud of the work they have achieved, and am so happy to be part of it. I am always looking for more ways to help, because donating to wildlife, is the foundation of my business."
I have heard rumors that you don't want to sell wholesale anymore?!
"Yes. It is hard to say, but I feel it isn't what my business was founded on. When I started three years ago, it was all about donating, not making a living. I had another job, but wanted something on the side, to bring extra income so that I could donate to causes close to my heart. I have been quite successful in my wholesale accounts, but feel limited in my donations. When I have wholesale accounts, I can't donate. Simple as that."
What are your future plans?
"I would love to volunteer more of my time to what is close to my heart, but as far as business is concerned, I am optimistic that my line will reach the masses. I know my designs are kitsch and often a little extreme.... but I feel that more people will understand their story as one of their own. I also want to represent other upcoming, eco-friendly designers that want to donate to their charities. That is part of the soul behind LoveItShop.com. I have always wanted satisfied customers to be even more satisfied by knowing they are donating to something that is important to the future generations."
Any last words?
"Be yourself. Cross your fingers for a brighter future. Do your best. Be compassionate to all living breathing things. Smile(:"
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