Meet Jackie: The Cranford Mom Behind Mother of Poppies Jewelry

Are you looking for handcrafted, vibrant jewelry that sparks joy? Meet Jackie, the talented Cranford, NJ mom behind Mother of Poppies Jewelry. Her passion for crafting began in her teenage years, and today she creates stunning, carefully crafted pieces. Jackie’s designs are as vibrant as her beautiful personality, from hand-knotted pearls to gemstone earrings.

In this interview, we dive into her journey as a creator, mom, and business owner. Please keep reading to learn more about her story, her brand, and how she balances family life with running a successful small business.

From Ohio to Cranford, NJ: Jackie’s Journey and Love for Local Life

First, tell us a bit about you! Where are you from, what’s your background, and what do you love about living in Cranford?

I grew up in Ohio. After college, I moved to the East Coast to work in corporate tax accounting. Eventually, I settled in Jersey City, where I married and started a family. We started living in Cranford, NJ 10 years ago when our first son was young. Now, we have two sons, a dog named Moose, and too many houseplants.

There are many things I love about Cranford. The downtown is vibrant. The restaurants offer so much variety. The schools are great, and the community is welcoming. I’ve made some dear friends here. Halloween is my favorite time of year. October is filled with fun events like the Scarecrow Stroll and the Halloween House Decorating Contest.

Discovering a Passion for Crafting: Jackie’s Early Love for Sewing

Where did you first learn to sew and create? Was there a childhood moment that sparked your passion for crafting?

I taught myself to sew as a teenager. My first big project was a dress for a school dance. It was powder blue with white feathers. Although I loved it, I though it wasn’t the most fashionable! Sewing has stayed with me. I even sewed all the curtains in my house.

Jewelry-Making as a Self-Care Outlet

What inspired you to start your own hand-crafted jewelry business?

I started making jewelry after fixing a broken earring. Soon, I was creating more intricate designs and buying better tools. Around this time, my younger son was diagnosed with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. It’s a severe form of epilepsy. Jewelry-making became a way to manage stress. I began gifting my pieces to friends and family. They encouraged me to turn it into a business. That’s how Mother of Poppies began.

The Meaning Behind “Mother of Poppies”: Inspiration for the Brand Name

What’s the story behind the name of your business?

The name came to me during a brainstorming session with my husband. Poppies are one of my favorite flowers. I love plants and flowers, and that shows in my Instagram posts and website.

Handcrafted Jewelry with Love: The Philosophy of Mother of Poppies

What is your brand philosophy?

My tagline is simple: “Carefully crafted, handmade with love.” I only sell pieces I love and would wear. With extensive research, I source quality stones, pearls, and metals from trusted suppliers. When possible, I shop from small local businesses in New Jersey.

Designing Unique Jewelry: Jackie’s Creative Process

Your jewelry is so vibrant and joyful! How do you come up with your designs?

Thank you! I hope my work sparks joy. I love mixing gemstones and pearls. Inspiration usually comes when I have beads in front of me. It’s a lot of trial and error. But I enjoy the process.

How Jewelry-Making Helps Jackie Unwind and Spark Creativity

Can you tell us about your creative process?

When I need to unwind, I make a strong cup of tea and spread out my beads. Then, I start experimenting with designs. Hand-knotting is my favorite technique these days. It’s relaxing and keeps me focused.

Balancing Motherhood and Running a Handcrafted Jewelry Business

As a mother of a child with unique needs, how do you balance motherhood and running your business?

Balancing both is challenging, but I’ve learned to stay flexible. My son’s care can be intensive. Since plans can change quickly. I take each day as it comes and adjust as needed.

Custom Jewelry Requests: How Customers Can Work with Mother of Poppies

Can customers work with you on custom orders?

Yes! I love creating custom pieces. Customers can reach out through my website.

Where to Find Mother of Poppies Jewelry Online

You can visit www.motherofpoppies.com or visit me on Instagram @motherofpoppiesjewelry. For custom orders, email me at pearlypoppies@motherofpoppies.com. Thank you for supporting my small business!

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