Introducing Jennifer (Merkaba Jewelry)

It's that time again - time to meet another fabulous member of the Asheville Etsy Street Team, Jennifer from Merkaba Jewelry. She began on her Etsy career in 2007, creating handcrafted jewelry using combinations of beads and metals.

On Her Craft:

What are your favorite materials to use in your crafts?
Sterling silver, copper, gemstones, lampwork glass beads, all beads really. And now I'm starting to make my own beads out of gourds.

How long have you been making the items you sell on Etsy?
I've been creating jewelry since college where I began a love affair with hemp and glass beads.

Where do you find your inspiration?
I'm inspired by many things...nature, friends, stories, my son.

Etsy/Business Related Questions:

How did you find Etsy?
I started off selling on eBay and got tired of competing with mass-produced items and the ever-increasing fees. Stumbled upon Etsy from recommendations from other crafty friends.

Is there a story behind your store name?
Merkaba has many meanings. It is a form of meditation and creating jewelry keeps me focused and keeps me very relaxed. I have a great husband who gives me the time I need to take off my *mom* hat for a little while and play with my wire and beads. I find it to be just what I need to keep me refreshed and ready to keep up with all my other roles in life.

Do you work another job in addition to Etsy?
If so, what is it? I am a stay-at-home mom to a fabulous little boy named Camden. It's a all-time job :)

Of Local Interest:

What's the best thing about living in the Asheville area?
The mountains, the climate, the people. I moved here over 6 years ago from Massachusetts and have loved every minute of it. I can't imagine living anywhere else.

What is your vote for best place to eat in Asheville?
Two Guys Hoagies. Mmmmm.


Random & Fun Questions:

What are your non-crafting hobbies?
Gardening, reading, and spending time with my husband, son, and two dogs.

What was the last book you read? Did you like it?
I recently finished The Kite Runner, which is a must-read in my opinion.

What is your favorite movie?
Another vote for the Red Violin! Although I really like Songcatcher as well, which is about the origins of music from this area.

Want to see more of Jennifer's work? In addition to her Etsy shop, she also sells earrings at Greenlife and has pieces at Merrimon Galleries, both on Merrimon Avenue in Asheville. The NC Arboretum also has her work available for sale.