You may recognize Dara Dot Designs when I first introduced you to her in this post from my other blog.
What I love about Dara Dot Designs are the fashionable AND practical accessories! The colours and fabrics are stunning and I seriously want one of every piece.
Another great testament to social networking and blogging is connected with people you may have otherwise not met in your daily life!
Dara and I have become GREAT twitter friends these past few months and I had the privilege of interviewing her after the Spring One of a Kind Show here in Toronto.
What or who was it that motivated you to be a designer?
I’ve always been a crafty soul, building something from nothing since I was a kid; and apparently straining my neck to look at shop windows from my stroller! My grandmother taught me to sew, and bought me my first machine (bunny=slow, turtle=slower!). From then on, there was no looking back!
My days are anything but typical. I could be in anything from a stretch of production, to administrative duties or marketing. Everyday incorporates some degree of social networking, and definitely interruptions from my days task list. I’ve learned to allot double the time for each task, because interruptions are inevitable.
What has been the most challenging part of your journey?
Definitely the psychological ups-and-downs. When you run your own business, curve-balls are constantly being thrown your way. It’s important to keep positive and keep inspiring people nearby, and those not so encouraging at a healthy distance. Sometimes it’s the negative people though who give you the biggest push of all- the push to prove them wrong 😉
Do you have any advice for others out there looking to pursue their artistic dreams?
Have a clear plan of your initial path. This will change constantly, but always keep an updated version tucked in your thoughts- it will keep you grounded. Also, talk to people… There’s a wealth of information out there! Good luck!
Thank you so much Dara! I really appreciate the time you’ve taken for me. I hope it doesn’t take another show before we meet up again 🙂
Be sure to check out Dara on Facebook and on Twitter and of course on her website.
Fabulous interview – thanks for posting this! I especially love the scarf with the yellow ruffle 🙂
Wow, those scarves are gorgeous! Great interview, I love hearing about how designers got started! Thanks for the post!