Today we’d like to introduce you to Araceli Avila.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Araceli. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Indiaceli Collective is a vintage and stone wrapped jewelry business venture that came about a little over a year ago. My love for old clothing and jewelry inspired me to pursue and explore this creative outlet to the fullest extent.
At a very young age, I was introduced to thrift stores and swap meets. I was very much attracted to vintage fashion with all of its bright and colorful patterns and textures. At times, the clothing wouldn’t fit but I still bought it and figured I’d find someone that would love it as much as I did. That’s when my collection of recycled goods would begin.
I also hunted for jewelry and gathered beads to pull apart and re-create my own visions. I wanted to incorporate different materials into my jewelry pieces, so I tried wire wrapping with raw crystals and stones and fell in love. Jewels have been worn for thousands of years and that in itself is such a magical thing. Adorning myself and creating with these lovely crystals has helped me connect not only more with myself and the earth, but with so many beautiful people who share the same love for these precious stones. I am still learning every day and I feel so blessed to have found my calling.
Has it been a smooth road?
The creation process can definitely get a little challenging when it comes to my jewelry. Some of the same techniques are used in certain pieces, but mostly all improvised and made on the spot, which comes with its great days and tricky days. I also have a full-time job so setting aside time to create, bring together collections of clothing, and setting up my booth at the local flea markets can get a little tiring, but in the end, it’s all so worth it! It’s such a heartwarming and loving feeling when people really connect with your art.
All the girl bosses out there! Wow, let me tell you, their motivation and commitment inspired me to manifest my own dreams. I have amazing women in my life that influence me every day! I feel lucky to be surrounded by such a strong, smart, talented, creative group of ladies. No matter where your journey takes you, always remember to stay true to who you are. At the time, it can get overwhelming and crazy but never give up. I know it sounds a bit cliche but it’s so true! I’ve had my tough moments, but I reflect on how far I’ve come and how many goals I’ve accomplished, some that I never even knew I had!
“Do whatever brings you to life, then. Follow your own fascinations, obsessions, and compulsions. Trust them. Create whatever causes a revolution in your heart.” The reason I’ve come this far is all thanks to the book BIG MAGIC: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert. It changed my life and the way I viewed creativity at the time. It pushed me to really dig deep within myself, to really break down all the barriers preventing me from living a creative life. “You can measure your worth by your dedication to your path, not by your successes or failures.” (Also Elizabeth Gilbert)
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Indiaceli Collective – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I create stone/crystal wire wrapped jewelry and collect vintage clothing and accessories. I carefully pick every stone/crystal, do a little smudging cleanse on them, and program and set good intentions for all. With every jewelry piece that I create, I always try and surround myself with positive energy so that it may be shared with the person who takes it home. I believe these gems all have healing properties to help balance your mind and spirit, so I make sure my customers know what each piece signifies.
Buying recycled goods is not only great for the environment but it also gives you the chance to create your own unique style and feels good in one of a kind vintage finds. I don’t just buy these pieces in bulk, I have a special connection with each individual item. I want to inspire people to express their individuality, to pursue their own passions. My hope is that the energy I put out into the world will help individuals find that passion for life that I have found in making jewelry and selling vintage clothing. We all deserve to be happy and to do what we love!
Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
My sister and I would visit with my aunt almost every weekend for a few years. She was the one who first introduced us to second-hand stores and yard sales. I fell in love with thrift stores! The fashion was unlike anything I had ever seen at the department stores and boutiques that we normally shopped at. I collected rings, necklaces, belts, purses and anything else I could break apart and re-use in some other sort of way.
My mother is creative in many arts, She is a painter, a seamstress, a cook, a photographer, and a dancer.
Growing up, I was always inspired to do the things I loved and set my mind to. I tried so many different things from dancing and painting to music and writing. They were all a great experience but I still felt there was something else I wanted to be doing.
I wanted to learn more about the fashion industry, so I attended the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and received my Associates Degree in Merchandise Marketing. What I loved about this school was that each professor had the greatest insight because they were all in the industry. They also ran their own businesses and taught us some great lessons on how to be successful in our own ventures. I gained so much knowledge that I still use and apply to my everyday life.
Pricing:
- Earrings- $10-20
- Necklaces- $10-40
- Vintage Clothing & Accessories- $10-60
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/INDIACELI
- Email: indiaceli@yahoo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indiacelicollective/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/indiacelicollective/
Image Credit:
Araceli Avila, VSCO Filters
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