This is more of a public journal entry than blog post, an opportunity for me to share with any readers and/or customers a little bit of who I am. A little bit about how I've grown to be and continue to grow into being the designer behind and owner of Lateef Accessories...
I think we all (or hope we all) have those moments in life where we get a glimpse of or first become acquainted with that which gives you a feeling saying 'I was meant to do this'. I think it's safe to say I've joined that blessed club and for the first time feel the pieces starting to come together. I can't say I've always wanted to be a metalsmith, or even make jewelry, but that's what makes the unexpected so special.
This kind of landed into my lap as the end of a chain of ever unfolding events. I graduated high school and went off to college (pursuing a BFA in Fashion Design) to begin my adult life like everyone else, expect it wasn't. Events transpired that halted my pursuit of higher education and I began working full time. I was discouraged, however, not defeated. I started school again this time with even more motivation and dedication. I was on the Dean's list and running after internships and volunteer opportunities left and right. What I lacked though was passion. I felt an invisible force pulling away my interest and desire to stay in school, so this time I voluntarily took a break from school. I didn't want to dedicate all my time and energy and money that didn't exist into something I wasn't sure about. Even if that meant falling behind and not graduating when I was 'supposed to'. Humbling for me to mention even here.
What I gained though is far more valuable for me though and that's empowerment. During that break I launched a small handmade line of bow ties called Carpologist Bowties. That satisfied my desire to design and sparked my interest in accessories. Designing jewelry lead me to exploring, exploring introduced me to metalsmithing.
I've always known I wanted to own my own small business, I have too many ideas and I'm too creative and like control too much to work under someone else. That's not a life for me, so here I am pursing the life of a metalsmith. So yes, I do plan to go on to school again but not to learn how to interview or build resumes or ask for a job. I plan to go back to school to acquire skills, starting with metal, then wood, acrylics, clay, and perhaps, one day fashion design. I realize I'm not taking the conventional- or even easy route, but if I'm going to work my little behind off in life I'll make sure it's doing what I love. I'll keep you guys updated on the progress meanwhile. ❤