Today we’d like to introduce you to Denise Rodriguez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Denise. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
This mosaic thing started off as something I might be able to do- I saw something on tv and decided to try it. I fell in love with the process and peace of it. I wasn’t very good and didn’t know the process very well, so I read everything I could and just wanted to get better. I did a couple of Art shows and was blessed enough to join a store where I sold my items on consignment. Then, in about 2008, I found Etsy and decided to give it a try. It was VERY slow going at first, but slowly and steadily I have built a fairly steady business. I get a lot of business from the Etsy site but also from friends and my Facebook page. It’s amazing to think that through this business my artwork is in all 50 states and about 10 countries.
Has it been a smooth road?
No not at all- my earliest struggles were pricing my work. I didn’t include my time in the works and wasn’t really turning a profit. So that was an issue and I decided that if they wanted what I was making and if it was good quality, they would pay. Another issue I had was my time management, I didn’t think about the whole process. I would promise something by a certain date and forget that I am also a mother, wife, and teacher and that I had those responsibilities as well. I have since learned that I need to give myself an adequate amount of time and set realistic expectations with myself and the customer.
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I create mosaic items- crosses, tables, vases, old windows, necklaces and rings, and even ornaments!!
I specialize and am known for my crosses of all sizes.
I believe that my quality sets me apart from others. I strive to create items that are made well and show good craftsmanship. I love it when people buy my items from the website and are surprised by how much more beautiful it is in person.
So, my proudest moments – I consider this business as a ministry of sorts. I place bible verses on the backs of all of my crosses. I can not tell you how many times that those verses have spoken to the people who have bought the crosses. Sometimes at shows, people are in tears because they know that the cross is for them. I have received emails and even phone calls from web customers thanking me for the verses. All I have to say is that that’s not me, it’s God.
Pricing:
- Crosses range from $22- $110, depending on size
- Jewelry ranges from $10-$15
- Ornaments range from $10-$15
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.denisemosaics.etsy.com
- Phone: 2102864765
- Email: denise4714@yahoo.com
- Instagram: DeniseMosaics
- Facebook: DeniseMosaics
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas 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.
