My Sparkle Squad fills me with joy at their reactions to my handmade jewelry designs that are sparkle-tastically distinctive and worthy of their own individuality.
Before I created A Touch of Sparkle by Monica, I was just a gal looking for some ultra cool party favors for a dazzling little saga. I could not find exactly what I wanted to give my friends, as it was very theme-oriented and character-specific. I wanted my guests to be 100% floored by the details. Then one day some favors I’d ordered arrived. My heart sank. The quality was mediocre. I was forced to attempt Plan B, a.k.a. Plan Sparkle.
About Sparkle by Monica
As any artist knows, starting a hobby requires investing in tools and training, which eventually leads to the decision of pursuing it as an entrepreneurial venture. Since I have a business and marketing background, I decided to give it a try. I originally got started by opening my 1st Etsy shop which has now expanded to 2 (one is for custom digital downloads), an Amazon Handmade shop, and this website plus my video tutorials.
I was originally concerned that people might not understand my sense of design, especially since I detest actually wearing jewelry. (I know! lol). Later, when I began getting requests to purchase charm bracelets, I felt insecure about pricing my jewelry because my competitors were selling lower than what I sourced my costs in materials and packaging.
After receiving positive feedback about the quality and thoughtfulness of my particular in-depth research into each themed piece, I quickly saw that I was on the right path. I decided I would set out to create uniquely reflective handmade jewelry for exceptional people in the world. I find many inspirations for my collections and offer them as uplifting, cherished keepsakes.
I released my first products back in 2010 during my hobby phase. The response has been sparkle-riffic! The joy that my sparkly shoppers express continues to elevate my spirit and presents new opportunities. I love surprising even the most jaded fan. So, I’m constantly learning new techniques and exploring new motifs. This research has reinvigorated my passion for reading, listening to music, and love of color. Most importantly, my new journey allows me to connect with many wonderful people that I may not have otherwise befriended.
Expanding the Sparkles
I expanded my jewelry making business to include creating digital graphics, teaching classes and offering personal tutoring sessions. I love the freedom of planning creative, fun and themed jewelry making projects for various skill levels of sparkly students. I’ve taught ages 7 to 92 so far!! I learn more from my sparkly students than I actually teach! Those experiences and friendships are the highlights of my creative business. My hubby and cats are still my biggest fans (even though they think I’ve developed a hoarding addiction to beads), but I am so grateful to all who become members of my Sparkle Squad.
I have transitioned back into the full-time administrative pro arena since our latest cross-country move, but I do plan to explore beading opportunities in Kentucky and re-open my online jewelry shops once our home remodeling issues are completed. I’m also looking forward to making new beading friends in my community.
Sparkly Awareness and Events
My work has been featured at Oh Baby A 3D/4D Ultrasound Studio . I have also contributed pieces to multiple charitable giveaways such as New York’s TwiMoms Breaking Dawn movie premiere event to benefit Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Gracious Rain’s Twilight Breaking Dawn event , Ark R.A.I.N. Wildlife Sanctuary’s benefit auction, 2013’s Find Yvonne Baldelli- Keep Hope Alive Fundraiser , MDA LockUp, Arizona Western College’s 2nd Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk, and a Relay for Life Event.
50% of sales proceeds from my Awareness Collection are donated towards cure research or family support. As of 2023, my sparkly shoppers have helped me raise $350.00 to donate to cancer research and suicide prevention. Sadly, these are 2 causes especially close to my heart which I am glad to help in some small way. Thanks so much for your support!
