Today we’d like to introduce you to Samantha Metivier.
Hi Samantha, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started Drive Slow Drink Milk officially in 2016, but I was born to create. I transitioned from watching Barney & Friends to The Carol Duvall Show while others my age were still using those dull children scissors cutting construction paper. As an only child, I gravitated towards crafting as a hobby and the family living room floor became my studio space. After trying all of the various types of crafting imaginable, I was drawn to create works that had a place in everyday life specifically things that could be worn. How exciting it is to be able to make a one-of-a-kind artwork that could have an on-the-go showcase. I’m inspired to create functional, wearable art by transforming and enhancing upcycled consumer objects that bend current trends and spark questions. I love making ‘things’ wearable, especially people’s throwaway items. With my focus on slow fashion & upcycling, I aim to save our planet one creation at a time.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My mind is my enemy and the only way to win my battle is to create. “Drive slow, drink milk” started as a phrase my momma would say to me as I was leaving the house at night: a reminder to make good choices, be safe, & take care of myself. These are my wearable artworks that come from these #DriveSlowDrinkMilk moments of self-care. I create one-of-a-kind pieces that I want to wear, and sales come from others resonating with that energy, style, and result.
When I get bogged down by thinking what creations would sell… I lose myself and it shows in my work. As an artist, it is my primary goal to stay genuine to my own style and vision and that is my biggest challenge.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a designer & crafter, I’m inspired to create functional, wearable art by transforming and enhancing upcycled consumer objects that bend current trends and spark questions. I want my creations to turn heads and grab people’s attention because it’s something they hadn’t seen before. My hand-dyed reworked hooded sweatshirts and wire wrapped crystal jewelry pieces are what Drive Slow Drink Milk is most known for, but I really love making ‘things’ wearable, especially people’s throwaway items. My new obsession has been combining dead houseplants with crystals to make copper necklaces. Because I am a crafter (rather than viewing myself predominantly as a business owner), everything I create is a one-of-a-kind piece. I very rarely make anything twice, partially for my sanity but also for the buyer getting to be the only person to own something as unique as they are.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Covid-19 taught me about people. The pandemic made me learn I love selling in-person more than I thought. When I’m selling in person, I get to chat with shoppers and offer my crystal knowledge and make suggestions. I also get to experience shoppers’ reactions to my works, which is really the highlight of it all. Not having these conversations and connections made the pandemic feel extra lonely. I was also surprised by the online community! My Esty shop received quite an increase in sales and publicity during the pandemic from people showing their support for local makers. The love I was missing from vending in person was translated online, and people showing up for other people really filled my heart.
Contact Info:
- Email: DriveSlowDrinkMilk@gmail.com
- Website: http://driveslowdrinkmilk.etsy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/driveslowdrinkmilk/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DriveSlowDrinkMilk/
