Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorraine Richardson.
Lorraine, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’ve always been an artist/creator. Drawing, sewing, sculpting, stained glass, repurposing, etc. I, also, produced large all handmade craft events. After many years of that, I decided that I wanted to focus on my art. So, I started Bits & Bobs in 2010. I started out making wearable, assemblage stained glass pieces and slowly morphed into the assemblage of vintage and antique finds as jewelry. My assemblage jewelry line is always changing and growing.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road. Lots of self-doubts when sales are low. Trying to find my ideal client and the right events that would have the ideal audience for my work were a struggle.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Bits and Bobs – what should we know?
I create one of a kind, unique pieces of jewelry, wearable art if you will, using vintage and antique pieces… like furniture hardware, buttons, tiny perfume bottles, old jewelry, skeleton keys… really anything that strikes my fancy and gets my creative juices flowing. I love taking people’s family keepsakes/heirlooms and creating pieces of jewelry that can be worn, treasured and honored… instead of sitting in a drawer or jar hidden away.
Pieces that are memorials to past generations and can be treasured by the younger generations. I really proud of my perseverance… not giving up… I’m proud that I can give old forgotten things a new life and a new story. My pieces are unique. They stand out in a crowd of mass-produced jewelry. My clients always comment on the fact that when they wear my pieces, they always have people commenting and asking about the piece.
Sometimes, they actually recognize that it is a Bits & Bobs piece. That is awesome!
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’ve had a lot of supporters and cheerleaders… My husband, Bryan, being the biggest one. Never let me give up, even when we’re struggling financially. Going to every show with me and helping me set up/tear down and work the booth (he’s my best salesperson ;)).
Building my shop at the Texas Renaissance Festival… with the help of our friends Matt Roszyk, Josh Williams, my son-in-law Matt Hayes, and my father-in-law Ron Richardson. My daughters, Kelsey and Avery, have always motivated me to keep going and helped me by looking at my work through fresh eyes. So many people… that have boosted me up when I wanted to quit and give me advice and encouragement.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.BitsandBobs.US
- Phone: 713-992-5983
- Email: ldr1966@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/rains_bits_and_bobs/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/rainsbitsandbobs/
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
