Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Rivera.
Hi Emily, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My daughters Lena and Amara (Lenara), namesake for which my social media handle and business are inspired by, have been a surprise to say the least. Inspirations Lenara started towards the end of October 2019. At the time, I lived in Florida with my husband and children. Being a military family, I had to leave my job as a Spanish teacher for my husband’s move to his next duty station in California. Before our move, I was planning a farewell party with friends and came across a video of how to make polymer clay earrings, and I loved the idea to try with my friends. I tried it out before our get together as an experiment and was delighted with the results. When my friends saw my creations, they were shocked and wanted to buy them instead of making some for the party. Their reaction and support gave me the confidence to continue making more. I started this business as something temporary because I thought I would continue to teach. But being able to make art and seeing the result filled me with an indescribable joy. I also discovered that being a mother, a teacher and an artist have something in common; you learn, grow and constantly inspire. It’s usually adults who praise and direct verbal support to children, however the moment in which the tables turned and my daughter with her hand on my shoulder said; “Mom, you’re so talented, I’m very proud of you”, my heart dropped. This innocent gesture is what has brought me to where I am today. I’d love to continue sharing my art and that it can make everyone’s inspiration a reality.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Although I didn’t have prior experiences in business, the process of creating has been bearable. I think my work experiences have indirectly prepared me for this stage in my life. What I consider to be the most challenging aspect of this process has been learning the nuances of social media and marketing my product. It’s been a lot of learning and content creating which significantly occupies most of my time. So finding the balance between taking care of my family and working from home has been somewhat challenging.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My specialty is polymer clay earrings, which are the main product of my business and what I’m known for. I take pride in creating original designs utilizing a variety of techniques, textures and charms to produce elaborate statement earrings for any occasion. I am very strict on using the best quality materials for my pieces which I believe sets me apart. I want all my clients to have a lasting piece of wearable art that will make them stand out and get compliments at the same time.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I learned is that you should never doubt your capabilities, we can achieve more than we think possible. You can discover you passion anytime, in the most unsuspecting places.
Contact Info:
- Email: inspirationslenara@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/InspirationsLenara
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/inspirationslenara?utm_medium=copy_link
