Today’s interview is with Natha Perkins, unique and enchanting handcrafted jewelry. She is Inspired by colors, confections, and fantasies. Her intention is to evoke a certain feeling, a dream, a memory, in every piece through the combination of metal, stones and words.
SD: When did you realize you wanted to be a jewelry designer?
NP: In my early twenties I became obsessed with plastic, sparkly candy colored jewelry but while it was so pretty, it was cheap and would fall apart easily or wouldn’t be comfortable. I wanted the same translucent shimmer but in ‘real jewelry’. So I always had specific pieces of jewelry that I had dreamed up and really wanted but could never find in stores. When I took my first silversmithing class and saw the possibilities for amazing, high quality, juicy jewelry- I was hooked. When people started buying my jewelry off of my neck, I knew I was onto something.
SD: Where do you turn for inspiration for your designs?
NP: I love colors. I am also really influenced by words, passion, and magical imagery. I envision my jewelry pieces becoming treasured objects and amulets for their owners so I try to tell open ended stories through the use of words, colors and shapes. I want these elements to enchant you and resonate personally so when you wear your piece, it has specific meaning to you as well as giving you something pretty to wear and look at.
SD: Who would you say has been the most influential person in your life?
NP: I have an amazing family and each person has been very influential in different aspects of my life but as far as my success and drive as an artist, my Dad David has been my biggest champion. He is and has always been completely interested and thrilled with all of my accomplishments. He just always makes me feel so talented and competent.
SD: Who is your average customer and what are they like?
NP: My customers are women (and the men who love them) that first and foremost like pretty things, but also like to have unique and meaningful adornments. That said though, they are a very diverse group. Some of my customers love the subtle sexiness of wearing a luscious cherry or flaming heart around their neck. Some of them love the fact that they can customize their jewels with names, special words etc. and some just fall in love with the colors or fantasy involved with a particular piece.
SD: How do you promote yourself and your designs?
NP: I have had great success with word of mouth referrals. I’m currently looking at doing some spring and summer shows as well because it seems like if someone can see my jewelry live and in person it really sells itself. I’m also utilizing indie product website like Smashing Darling (love Smashing Darling!) as well as trying to promote my own website nathaperkins.com
SD: What does your average day entail?
NP: I wish it was more glamorous but I have 2 little girls and so most days revolve around keeping them happy- lots of eating, dressing up and playing. When I do get to escape to my studio-aah… heaven. I get most of my work done on the weekends when my sweet husband can take over.
SD: Describe your personal style?
NP: I am secretly scared of becoming a shlumpy Mom so I usually try to dress it up a bit everyday. I favor lots of pretty layers and skirts or else all black but always sassy shoes and lots of jewelry.
SD: Who are your fashion icons (past or present)? Do you think they influenced your personal style?
NP: Without a doubt my step mom Linda and Grandmother Herta are my fashion icons. Herta taught me the importance of always looking fabulous for the sole reason of making yourself happy and Linda taught me the art of dressing in an eclectic and unique fashion without looking ridiculous.
SD: Do you have any current fashion obsessions?
NP: Yes…jersey knit scarves in lots of colors, legwarmers and the color green.
SD: Do you have any events you are getting ready for in the near future?
NP: I have a pile of beautiful gemstones waiting for me to make them into luscious jewelry and lots of new designs ready to be taken from concept to realty!
SD: Is there anyone in the Smashing Darling community you have a question or comment for?
NP: Really I just want to send a general thanks to all of the amazing artists whose craft has inspired me. I have gotten so much inspiration just from seeing what some of my peers are up to. Thistle Down Wool Design- your bags are just amazing and I love the color combinations of Elle a Belle Designs- ooh how I want those Bonfire earrings!
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Thanks Natha. We spoke when you added pieces to Smashing! Loved your work the first minute I saw it. I keep popping in to your store regularly, coveting my favs! Sarah