Today we’d like to introduce you to Esmeralda Mireles-Monroe
Hi Esmeralda, 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?
Craft making started out as a hobby. I don’t think there’s only one specific craft that captures my heart, but many. If you look back to my work such as photography and or my previous charcuterie business, I enjoyed capturing moments, seeing the beautiful colors of the cheeses, fruits and garnishes come together to make a special piece. The designing was a great part of it too. I wanted to an opportunity to get back into a creative space and then I discovered clay! I got to sculpting and painting, and that’s how Cozy Cottage Crafts Co. came to life!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Thankfully, it’s been smoother than I expected. Setting up a business is a critical decision and adventure. It takes much planning and funding to make that dream come true. I admire our local small business owners and CEOs who’ve taken a leap to embark on these journeys to help their communities and bring forth their talent, goods and services with the world.
I’ll say because of my previous experience as a small business owner, those lessons learned have helped me create Cozy Cottage Crafts Co. but it’s been more exciting than fearful. I’m still getting started so I’m hoping not too many challenges ahead (fingers crossed).
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have the absolute pleasure to create anything. One thing I love about the business is that I get to sculpt with my hands, paint with my hands and create with my hands. I’m currently creating jewelry dishes, small pots, small catch all trays, magnets and paper weights, but I can dabble into canvas painting in the future, build vases, make keychains, sculpt tree ornaments, or shape photo frames, etc. The possibilities are endless and limitless.
My small business has been a creative outlet for me and my mind needs that safe space to express itself. I don’t hope to be the best at anything, I just hope my pieces can resonate with my local community members as we head to vendor markets, fairs and very soon…. our website!
My dream is to one day own a small cottage and much of the inspiration for my little designs (and the business name) are what I envision if I were to wake up and step outside in the morning or in the evening during golden hour.
A cold scrip of air on the willow tree branches, birds chirping, dew on the grass, sun rays on the river, flowers blooming – in the cold seasons, warm hugs, light rain or snow, festive lights, a cozy fireplace, crunchy snow…. etc. Doesn’t that sound amazing?!
The clay pieces have been joyous and fun to make. They’ve taught me patience, finding beauty in the details and being proud of the end result – big or small. These paintings bring me joy, and my hope is that the creations spread touches of bliss with folks and hopefully see these pieces in their home.
Lastly, I don’t know what sets me apart from others, I’m just getting started. I don’t want to be the best, but I do want to have fun, create, and enjoy the journey.
What makes you happy?
That’s a loaded question.
At the top of my head, I’d say:
My husband. My girl, Charlotte.
Being in nature, hiking, meditating, being outside.
Seeing my baby girl (dog), Charlotte napping after a long walk.
Cold winter days.
Making something from scratch.
Creating a family member or friend a gift and seeing them using it.
Seeing people being people, humans being human.
Painting.
Taking opportunities to heal my inner child.
Taking opportunities to just be my inner child.
Traveling – domestic or international.
Learning and reading articles.
Laughing at jokes with my family.
Pricing:
- $5-$50 items
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @_cozycottagecraftsco
Image Credits
These are at the ownership and credit to Esmeralda Mireles-Monroe.
