Made-in-New-York.com Newsletter

The Crafter & Artisan Spotlight -
Something Old into Something New - ReCreations by Deb is Inspired by Gardens and Nature

Deborah Florian of Buffalo, New York, began her artisan career about seven years ago with her strong desire to turn utility into form transcending the initial function of the objects she employs. Her pieces provide nostalgic portals to the past and a whimsical approach to every day living.

Florian held a professional/technical as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist for 16 years until she needed to spend more time with her daughter's family. During the times not spent with her daughter, Florian discovered she needed an outlet for her spare time and a way to reduce stress. Her journey to create began by producing a roomful of items. She wondered if anyone might be interested in buying them. She applied and displayed at a local school craft show where her items were well received. She became hooked!

Florain considers herself a mixed media artisan, creating colored glass bud vases, wire wrapped vases, rooting vases, hanging vases, garden and home decor created from antique and vintage housewares and collectibles. She draws inspiration from the beauty and strength of nature, her respect and interest in history, not to mention her love of gardening which is credited for many unique and "one-of-a-kind" creations.

While interviewing Florian for this newsletter her comments about earning a living wage impressed me. " It is not as much as I made in my professional job. I spend more hours at my business now. The rewards are much greater when measured as personal accomplishment, satisfaction and not working under anyone else. I can express myself creatively and receive many compliments about my achievements. I am my own boss which means more to me than monetary rewards."

Florian's attitude shines at shows especially when regular customers visit. They particularly enjoy her re-created ordinary household objects which become whimsical and nostalgic items for decorating the home and garden. Many designs are unique one-of-a-kind, and range from Primitive to Modern Fun-and-Funky, thus offering customers a unique and fun shopping experience.

Florians words of advice to anyone considering a career in the arts & crafts industry, "Be prepared for ALOT of work. Do your homework. Have a good business sense. I meet many who think that "doing crafts" is a fun and easy way to make lots of money. Many fail in the first couple of years. Many know how to craft but very few have the knowledge to keep their heads above water and not drown in the expenses and the amount of work required. Have a good sense of money management. If you can not manage your own finances do not expect to be able to run a business. If you are in debt, chances are so will be your business, in a very short time."

Florian quickly added, "The most rewarding part is knowing that I could do it and be successful at it! I have kept close the words of Henry David Thoreau 1817 - 1862, Our truest life is when we are in our dreams awake. I am able to live my truest life, my dream through my business.
All we need is deep within us waiting to unfold and be revealed. All you need to do is be still and seek for what is within and you will surely find it.
Take a leap of faith, believe in yourself, alienate fear(the biggest enemy) and befriend decisiveness. Find inspiration from those things that move you spiritually and emotionally."

Florian has won numberous awards for both her creative work and display. Lockports Optomost Arts Festival, Brockport Arts Festival, Kenmore Arts & Crafts Show, West Seneca Artrs & Crafts Show and Best Booth at Weekend on the Niagara at Niawanda Park in Tonawanda.

Having the pleasure of meeting Debbie Florian and seeing her creations was one of the most enjoyable and enlightening show experiences I have ever had. One you will certainly enjoy as well. To see more of Florian's creations and find some upcoming shows visit her web site at ReCreations by Deb.

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