We’re looking forward to introducing you to Nicole Peebles. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Nicole, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Lately, the moments that have made me feel most proud have come from my sewing students. Their feedback and enthusiasm have been so encouraging. One student told me they planned to make more of the design we worked on in class as gifts, and that they’re constantly getting compliments on their work. It’s incredibly rewarding to see others gain confidence and joy through sewing.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Nicole Peebles, and I’m the artist behind Cecelia & Mae, a brand focused on sustainability, creativity, and the joy of handmade craft. I design and sew bags, often using reclaimed or repurposed fabrics, with the goal of giving new life to materials that might otherwise go to waste. Alongside creating, I also teach sewing workshops, where I help others learn practical skills while discovering the satisfaction of making something themselves. What makes Cecelia & Mae special is that every piece tells a story—about care, resourcefulness, and the beauty found in the imperfect and the handmade.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
I would say my parents taught me the most about work. Both of them have always had a strong work ethic and a sense of pride in doing things well. They taught me the importance of responsibility, follow-through, and taking care with whatever task is in front of you. I think that foundation has carried into how I approach both my creative work and teaching—with patience, intention, and care.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear of not being good enough has held me back the most. It’s something I’ve had to work through over time; learning to trust my skills and value my perspective. In creative work especially, self-doubt can creep in easily, but I’ve found that continuing to show up, make things, and share them anyway has been the best way to move past that fear.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to continuing to build Cecelia & Mae as a sustainable, creative practice—one that encourages people to value handmade work and mindful consumption. It’s a long-term project for me, rooted in the belief that small actions, like making something by hand or choosing to reuse materials, can have a lasting impact. Even if it takes time to grow, I want to keep creating pieces and spaces that inspire others to slow down, make thoughtfully, and find meaning in the process.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
I think I would regret not trying. There are creative ideas and projects that feel meaningful to me, even if they come with uncertainty or the chance of failure. I’ve come to believe that you can’t really fail if you try—the act of doing itself is worthwhile. And that’s with anything. I don’t want to look back and realize I held back out of fear or waited too long to start. I’d rather take the chance and see where it leads.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @ceceliaandmae
