Why I design jewelry!
Designing jewelry takes me to a special place deep within my soul where I feel the most free, authentic and empowered! I want you to experience the same feelings when wearing my jewelry. It's not just wearable art; it's passion and purpose! Passion and purpose generates energy that helps me to challenge and conquer the mundane leaving me to discover new possibilities in my jewelry designs!
My design inspiration often comes from my love of nature, fashion, architecture, historical places and a deep emotional connection to my Creator! I am drawn to materials that appeal to my sense of color, shape and texture.
Then, I inquisitively explore ideas that come to me and ask myself, “what if it is done this way?” I let my imagination and spirit takeover! When, I do this, I go into the realm of exuberant feelings of joy and accomplishment! This leads to some of my best designs! It is not always knowing a particular technique. It is simply heartfelt ideas worked into action that materializes!
The Story Behind Iris Perry Designs
After searching for a unique gift for my mother’s birthday, I began handcrafting jewelry. I sought out a friend who created handmade jewelry at a local bead store, but she was not in! In spite of that, a young man there convinced me that I could make my mother jewelry. At first I had no interest, but he sat me down and taught me how to do basic stringing. It brought back euphoric memories of times of giving my mother handmade simple little trinkets from my childhood that she held dear to her heart!
As I think back, I can see how my creative spirit was well nurtured by my father’s painting and his artistic ability to take what others would discard and give it a second life! My fashion sense was inspired by my mother who would sew clothing and decorative accessories for the home. I loved watching her get all dressed up with the makeup, perfume, shoes, matching purse, and—of course— jewelry!
I have worked as an interior designer in the Washington, D. C. metropolitan area for over 15 years. After graduating from Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia, I worked most of my career in hospitality design. I was laid off while working for an international hotel conglomerate.
Nonetheless, I participated in the company’s annual handmade craft show by selling my handcrafted jewelry. To my surprise, the response was amazing! By the end of the day, most of my jewelry was sold. This was the turning point for me. I began to visualize myself creating jewelry and starting an entrepreneurial journey in the jewelry business.