Where are you from and how does that affect your work?

I was born and raised in Los Angeles, so I’ve always felt like a true California girl. The culture here is laid-back and full of creatives and free-spirited people, which has definitely influenced my approach to Good Karma. I want my pieces to feel effortless—something you can throw on and instantly feel good in, no matter where you are.

How did you get your start?

I’ve always been entrepreneurial, but I never imagined I’d end up in fashion. Good Karma was born out of a gift—a beautiful Thai cotton dress, hand-embroidered with bright orange carrots, given to me by my dear friend, Nana. I wore it so much it literally fell apart.

At the time, I was new to sustainable fashion and didn’t know how to properly care for natural fibers. When I asked Nana to help me find another carrot dress, she couldn’t. These pieces weren’t mass-produced; they were never meant to be. And that realization sparked something in me.

With Nana’s help, I started reaching out to artisans in Thailand, sourcing handmade pieces to sell on Etsy. I started small—buying just five pieces at a time, waiting weeks for them to arrive, and wondering if they would ever sell. Slowly but surely, they did. Each positive review felt like a little push forward, proof that others saw the beauty in these pieces too.

Today, I source fabric directly from artisans in Jaipur, India, who carry on the centuries-old tradition of hand block printing using vegetable dyes, as well as makers in Thailand who weave the most beautiful, lightweight cotton, thoughtfully designed for their hot climate.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

My biggest influences come from the deep-rooted textile traditions of Asia. I’m Korean myself, but I’ve always been fascinated by the art of Indian block printing, the softness of Thai stonewashed cotton, and what I like to call the East’s version of beachwear—flowy, modest silhouettes designed for hot weather.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

Since I’m not a designer by trade, the hardest part is translating my ideas into real pieces. I question myself all the time—will people like this? Will they wear it? But I think that challenge is what makes this journey so rewarding. It pushes me creatively, and every piece that comes to life feels like a small victory.

What’s your favorite item that you’ve created, and why?

Right now, I’m really excited about the Summer Sweetheart Dress. It’s an Indian block print cotton mini dress with billowing sleeves, a lightweight cotton liner, and a tie in the front that you can style into a bow. And of course, it has pockets.

Pockets are a major win! What do you love most about Pasadena?

That’s a tough one, but I’d have to say the food. Pasadena has so many incredible restaurants, especially small businesses, packed into a small area. You can walk around Downtown Pasadena all day and find almost any type of cuisine you’re craving.

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect?

I ride motorcycles and scuba dive.

Very cool! Where do you see yourself in five years?

I’m hoping Good Karma continues to grow, and I’ll be taking off too—on a lot of vacations.

Anything special you’d like to share?

Good Karma is truly a love project. It’s about creating clothing that feels good, does good, and honors the hands that make it. I wanted to create pieces that are accessible to everyone—not just in price, but in spirit. Clothes that carry meaning, that are thoughtfully crafted, and that celebrate tradition over mass production.

Our pieces aren’t made in factories. They’re crafted by Ban Chum Chn, Thai women who sew in the comfort of their communities. ‘Ban Chum Chn’ translates to ‘community housekeeper,’ a reflection of the rich tradition in Thai villages where older women gather to work together, support one another, and sustain their livelihoods. This is a way to honor their craft, their independence, and their way of life.

At its heart, Good Karma is for my grandmother. She raised me in handmade clothes, with unconditional love, and shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand until now. This brand is my way of carrying forward her legacy—making clothes with care and sharing that love with the world.

Love all of that. Find Made By Good Karma at Jackalope Pasadena this April 26th & 27th at Central Park, Old Pasadena.

Website: www.madebygoodkarma.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madebygoodkarma

Justin with Wylies Wood and Leather

Where are you from and how does that affect your work? 
I lived in 13 different cities before the age of 18, all across the midwest, south, and East Coast. I grew up with one foot in the city and the other in small town USA; and the intertwining of these two walks of American life have absolutely defined my design and build sensibilities. To use an analogy, each handcrafted piece would fit perfectly within the city mouse’s lakeside, country home or in the country mouse’s New York City penthouse apartment. Everything is crafted to offer you a unique taste of subtle luxury, while feeling home-y and inviting.

Tell us how you got your start? 
I moved to Los Angeles twenty-five years ago and I spent the first three years working for an extremely talented contractor in Pasadena. I believe I’ve worked in nearly every home in San Marino and Pasadena. During that time I received an incredible education in electrical, plumbing, and all-things-handy-man. Most importantly, this job launched my curiosity for how things are made. During a nearly twenty-year career as a television producer, I took any opportunity I could to work with my hands and continue to expand my skills; like rebuilding a vintage motorcycle from the ground up because I wanted to know how engines work. I eventually found my true passion in woodworking and leather craft and the rest is (living) history. 

Very cool. What is the hardest part of your creation process? 
Splinters. Especially from Black Wenge wood. 

I would believe that. How do you define success as an artist?
My wife and our two daughters are everything to me. They are the biggest reason why I left a successful career as a producer. I want the three of them to know that healthiest (emotionally and mentally) version of me and I want to fill their lives with love and support. If I can show my daughters that starting a business of your own, and doing something that brings you absolute joy is possible, all while showing up as a strong, understanding, and deeply loving partner to my wife, is possible, than I sincerely believe I am the most successful person on Earth. 

Love that. What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?
The cornerstone to Wylie’s is The Wesley Chair. I love the piece for two reasons. Firstly, it is named after my oldest daughter. Secondly, it feels incredible to sit in.

Wesley Chair

What do you love most about Pasadena? Pasadena is so rich with history and art. The world’s greatest architects have built here, the greatest movie directors studied here, it is home to the most beautiful gardens in Southern California. It’s where Marty McFly and Doc Brown devised a way back to 1985 and it’s the home of Pie and Burger. 

What is a fun fact about yourself that others may not expect? 
I’m a trained classical singer. 

Oh very cool! Where do you see yourself in 5 years?   
I see myself doing what I am doing today (perhaps on a slightly bigger scale). I hope I’ll still be encouraging my daughters to chase their dreams and not work for someone else’s, and to be as in love with my wife as I am today. 

Mic drop! Anything special you’d like to share?  
I have an uncanny ability to eat lots of ice cream, too often. 

Find Wylie's Wood and Leather at Jackalope Pasadena this April 26th & 27th at Central Park, Old Pasadena AND the Downtown Burbank Arts Festival on May 31st & June 1st.

Website: wylieswoodandleather.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wylieswoodandleather

Do you have a story behind your company name?

This was my second time starting a business. With my first, I spent a lot of time brainstorming and perfecting the name, but the business wasn’t successful. The second time around, I did the opposite—I didn’t want to procrastinate. I chose a name without overthinking it, and that decision helped streamline the entire process of starting and running the business. Now, 10 years later, I see how moving forward quickly and decisively was a key to my success.

How did you get started? 
I initially tested selling a variety of products on Etsy. Back in college I sold pet jewelry, so I restarted that business using materials I still had on hand. From there, I continued experimenting with different products to see what would resonate.

What is your favorite part of the maker process?
Over the past decade, my favorite part of the maker process has evolved. I used to love working on custom products, many of which became part of my collection. Now, I really enjoy sourcing materials. We’ve built design spaces filled with so many different materials that inspire me and my team.

What inspires you to create?
It’s simple—what inspires me to create is the demand from my customers. Their interest and requests drive me to keep offering new and unique creations.

What’s a typical day like for you in the studio?
Before my kids were born, I spent long hours in my room from morning until late at night, working on custom orders that often became part of my collection. Having children made me realize I needed help with orders, which in turn helped me grow my business. It allowed me to shift focus to sourcing materials, designing, and building the right team to collaborate on everything from design to e-commerce.

What’s your favorite item you’ve created and why?
My favorite thing to do is painting and adding filigree designs and rhinestones to masks. I absolutely love it. Even when things get hectic around me, the process feels meditative and calming. 

What is the hardest part for you as an artist?

For me, designing is the hardest part because I want to design something authentic, unique, and innovative. 

What will you be bringing to Jackalope? 

I hope to bring a bit of whimsy and fun to Jackalope. My wish is that through the serendipity of discovering my products, customers find joy in those unexpected moments when they come across something that speaks to them and creates lasting memories for them, and their loved ones.

Anything special you’d like to share? 

I’ve found that collaboration has been the key to even the smallest successes. From working with photographers who bring my products to life visually, to hiring the right people to help with orders, every person involved plays a part in shaping and reshaping not only my creations but the direction of my business. These collaborations have allowed me to grow and evolve over the years, reminding me that no business is built in isolation—every success is truly a shared one.

Find Serendip Box Inc at Jackalope Pasadena on November 9th & 10th, 2024

www.higginscreek.com

Sandra & Edoardo

Do you have a story behind your business name?
Our company name is our family name. 

How did it all get started?

We are a family business. We are the 3rd generation.

That is incredible! What is your favorite part of the maker process?
Creating designs and paying attention to the little details.

Where do you draw inspiration to create?

Nature is our biggest inspiration.

What is your favorite product that you have created and why?

My favorite item is our alpaca socks. We are very proud of the feel and the fit of our socks.

What can we expect to see from you at Jackalope?
We will bring our alpaca socks, our hand embroidery accessories, and our WUAMAN Kids collection.

Anything special you’d like to share?
We are certified fair trade and sustainably grazed.

Find WUAMAN at Jackalope Arvada this October 5th & 6th, 2024
Website: www.wuaman.com

Instagram: @wuaman.official

Natalie | MSL Bags

Where are you from and does that affect your work?

I am a California girl through and through! Born in Santa Barbara and raised all over Los Angeles, I think my creative work is inspired by that sunny and energetic, chic and aspirational vibe that you get from living in SoCal.

What is your biggest artistic influence?
My style is influenced mainly by a BOHO aesthetic. An earthy and relaxed approach, expressing nature through abstract prints, and mixing different cultural expressions into an eclectic style that is free-spirited, yet elevated.

How do you define success as an artist?

Finding joy in the process of creating.

Well put. What would you say is the hardest part of the creation process?

Making it look in reality, the way it looks in your head! Creation is oftentimes experimentation. Sometimes it leads you on a path to success, or something even better than you'd imagined! But sometimes it doesn’t work at all, and your vision remains unfulfilled, which can be really frustrating.

I bet patience comes into practice there! How has your style changed over time?

My journey as an artist in this space has really just begun. I am always fond of clean and elevated. So while I am sure to evolve, I think that element will always be a part of my style.

What is your favorite piece that you have created and why?

I only create one product, but the versions I love most are from the Indigo Shibori collection. There is something so clean and soothing about it for me. Maybe it’s the blue…maybe it’s the contrasting saturation of color against the white…it just makes me feel…ahhhhh.

What do you love most about Burbank?

Having lived in South Pasadena, Arcadia, Culver City, and Westwood during my lifetime, Burbank was always a hop skip and a jump away! From kid’s birthday parties at the local Chuck. E Cheese, to devouring Picanha’s cheezy biscuits as a young adult, Burbank has been a part of my life as long as I can remember.

Find MSL Bags at The Downtown Burbank Arts Festival on June 8th & 9th, 2024.
Website: www.mslbags.com

Facebook; www.facebook.com/mysourcelifebags

Instagram: @mslbags

Where are you from and does that affect your work?  

Parisa from Parisa KJ

I hail from Iran, a nation rich in traditional crafts and artistic heritage. Growing up immersed in the rich tapestry of Iranian arts and crafts has profoundly influenced my creative journey. It has sparked a deep-seated desire within me to not only embrace these traditions but to make them an integral part of my life and work.

How did you get your start?

I initially pursued my craft as a hobby, but for the past year, it has become my full-time profession.

Congratulations! Who is your biggest artistic influence?

One of my biggest artistic inspirations was a cousin of mine back in Iran. Her handcrafted leather bag shows, where she sold her creations, sparked my passion for becoming a handbag designer. 

Very cool. How do you define success as an artist?

I believe an artist is someone who creates art purely for the sake of art, without being preoccupied by other considerations. Their artwork captivates viewers, encouraging them to ponder it for an extended period of time.

What is a typical day in the studio like for you?

Typically, I review emails in the morning, attend any online seminars or meetings, fulfill orders throughout the day, and dedicate my afternoons to working on my designs and projects.

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

Crafting a bag from thick leather, especially when multiple layers require sewing together…

How has your career and art developed?

My journey in both my career and art has been a gradual evolution. Initially, I pursued art as a hobby, but over the years, my passion for handbag design deepened. Taking a significant step, I registered my business and actively participated in workshops tailored for small businesses. Concurrently, I was a student studying Fashion Merchandising, which greatly contributed to shaping my career and business ventures.

Has your style changed over time?

I wouldn't claim that my style has undergone significant change, but I have noticed a growing preference for brighter colors compared to the past.

Very fun. Do your creations help you in other areas of your life?

Absolutely, my involvement in art has significantly influenced various aspects of my life. It has transformed the way I perceive both things and people, fostering a deep appreciation for the intricacies of handcraft. Additionally, participating in art-related events has been instrumental in expanding my social circle, leading to the formation of meaningful connections with individuals who share similar interests.

Do you have a favorite item that you’ve created, and why?

My favorite bag has to be the Moon Purse, one of my earliest designs. Its compact, lightweight, and distinctive design makes it the perfect everyday companion for when you're out and about. It provides just enough space for your essential items when you're running errands.

What do you love most about Pasadena?

I adore Pasadena for its vibrant atmosphere and the diverse array of art and cultural events that unfold throughout the year. What truly stands out is the city's rich mosaic, not just in culture and art, but also in the field of science. Living in proximity to institutions like Cal Tech and the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a source of great satisfaction. However, my absolute favorite is the Jackalope Art & Craft Fair. Here, I have the wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow art enthusiasts and engage with clients in person, listening to their insights and ideas about my work.

We love hearing that and having you with us! Is there anything special that you’d like to share?

I have recently introduced my online store, offering fans a convenient shopping destination for their favorite items at www.parisakj.com.

Catch Parisa KJ at Jackalope Pasadena on April 27th & 28th, 2024.

Website: www.parisakj.com

Instagram: @handbagsbyparisakj

Dante Perozzi

Where are you from and does it affect your work?

I have moved around a ton in my life, so it's not easy to sum up. I was born in Zimbabwe, lived in places like Virginia, Louisiana, South Carolina, sailed on a boat along the US east coast and into the Caribbean, and finally settled in Arizona. The longest I stayed anywhere was 12 years in California, but I was just 21 when I got there. I think all that moving around made me more open to taking risks, trying new things, and not being afraid of big changes or new ideas.

Very cool! Do you have any artistic influences?

Yes! Other than finding beauty in formal attributes and shapes - I am always moved and inspired by sculpture. Some favorites that I can think of right now are Louise Nevelson, Gordon Matta Clark, Robert Motherwell, Carl Andre, Eva Hesse.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success as an artist is creating something that can affect the thoughts or emotions of others through my creations. They have an impact and can be absorbed/appreciated by an audience. In the case of jewelry, I feel successful when I see someone light up when they find or wear my my jewelry. 

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

Knowing when to stop! I have endless ideas and I could make new designs indefinitely. But I have learned to hold myself back otherwise I become buried by the production of too many pieces at a time. Patience doesn’t come easily to me.  

Has your style changed over time?

I went from working with very clean lines, straight edges, smooth surfaces with sharp angled designs that were highly structural in nature to the complete opposite end of the spectrum! I am currently making pieces that are highly textural, and more organic in form. It’s funny to think about how very different my work is now.

Ya we can spot the difference from when you first started doing our fairs! How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?

I have steadily added skills to my knowledge base from the beginning. I thrive off of a design challenge-and since I don't let my personal skillset limit my ideas, I am often seeking out knowledge via courses or local resources in order to bring my idea to life.

What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I could never pick a favorite. But I’ll say that I am really enjoying making chains lately. I have a beautiful new piece called the Nara Chain and I find it mesmerizing.  I can definitely see more unique chain making in my future.

Can’t wait to see what you will create next! And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

I have been in Colorado for 5.5 years now and the beauty of this state is truly incomparable, I have also really grown to love the active and engaged community of people I have found here. I have 2 young boys that I am very grateful to be able to raise in this special place.

Can’t wait to be back there next week! Catch Dante Perozzi at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.danteperozzi.com

Instagram: @danteperozzijewelery

Tatiana of Sanin Jewelry

Where are you from and does it affect your work?

I am from Medellin, Colombia, the city of the eternal spring. Being born there brings a different sunshine to my inspiration that is reflected in some of my pieces. 

How do you define success as an artist?

Doing what you love every day of your life surrounded by your loved ones.

What’s the hardest part of your creation process?

The days when I don't have inspiration. I used to think that I needed to be creative everyday, but I am just a human with sunny and rainy days. There will be days full of wonderful ideas and others for resetting myself.  

Well said. Has your style changed over time?

A lot! From the materials I use, to the design process, and I think it will continue evolving and that excites me!

How have you continued to develop your skillset as an artist?

I am coming out of a time in my life when I took a couple years to work on myself and get some clarity in my life. I am ready for the next chapter of growing and learning. I am planning to attend a design school next year to discover more about this creative world.

Very cool! What is your favorite item you’ve created and why?

I have a lot of favorite items, it is hard to choose. I love my WILDLIFE COLLECTION because I am a big animal lover. I also adore my CONSTANTINE COLLECTION that was inspired by the architecture of the big cathedrals around the world. My father helped me to bring my ideas to life and having his hands be part of this process makes every piece very special to me.

And finally, what do you love most about Colorado?

The nature! The silhouettes of the mountains getting lost in the sky and the magnificent wildlife that I have the honor to be surrounded by. What a lucky girl to wake up with the sound of the birds and go to bed with the light of the stars. 

Catch Sanin Jewelry at Jackalope Arvada on October 14th, & 15th

Website: www.sanin.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saninjewelry

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?
I was born in London, UK. However, I have lived, studied and taught in many countries. It is these experiences that inspired my Yoga Purse business.

Who/what are your biggest artistic influences?

I can remember the first time I went to a public library. I remember feeling like my whole world had opened up, I was around 6 or 7 years old. Each page of every book was a window to a world I had yet to explore.

I could spend hours in a library or good book store! How do you define success as an artist?
Success is the process of bringing an idea to fruition. When I am able to design a product, then create it and sell it at Jackalope, it is very fulfilling. Perhaps, the true success is when a customer buys a product I created and simply loves it. To see that reaction is just priceless.

Very rewarding. Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

For me, it’s not a matter of IF I have time to be creative. Creating has become such a big part of who I am. I’m not sure that my brain could switch my creativity off. There’s constantly some creative rumblings running through my head!

How have you developed your skill at your craft?
One of my favorite sayings is “every day is a school day - if you’re lucky”. Learning something new brings me so much joy, and that goes for learning and developing new skills.

I’m a visual and tactile learner, so trying a new skill and failing is part of how I not only learn, but also look at something in a different way.

A great perspective. What is the hardest part of your creation process?
Saying no to all of the new ideas!

That would be hard! How has your style changed over time?
Many moons ago, I owned a fabric store. My style at the time was driven by neutral colors. My colleague and brilliant assistant Kym was the complete opposite. She loved bright colors! When it came to choosing fabric for the store, we would buy and choose together to create a well-rounded collection. Over time, I moved away from neutrals and shifted my focus to bright colors and designs that make a statement.

Embracing color, love it! What’s the best thing about being an artist?

Exercising my creativity.

How about a favorite item you have created?

I love the first versions of Yoga Purse that I created, but I think my favorite item is the shoulder sling that I adapted again and again until it was just right. It was a lot of work, but I enjoyed every step. The shoulder sling Yoga Purse designs are now my best sellers!

Love it! Anything special you’d like to share?

I encourage everyone to find a creative outlet. That could mean art, music, writing, filmmaking or even starting a business. Create something, and enjoy the process.

In addition, embrace the prospect of "failure" , when we let go of being perfect, opportunities become way more fun ;-)

Well said! We can’t wait to see you in person this November 19th & 20th at Jackalope Pasadena!

Where to see more of Yoga Purse:

Website | www.yogapurse.com

Instagram | @yogapurse

Where are you from and how does that affect your work?

I am proud to be Mexican American and I feel deeply rooted to my Mexican culture. My family is from Jalisco Mexico where I have been able to travel since I was a child. My love of leather and design combines my Mexican culture with the artisanal art of leather tooling.

I think your work definitely speaks to your heritage and we love that. Who/what are your biggest artistic influences? 

I have a specific love of Chicano art and the beauty of the bright colors used in Latino art pieces.

How do you define success as an artist?

Success is being able to provide pieces that are enjoyed and appreciated by others.

That is a great perspective. Does your art help you in other areas of your life?

It brings me joy in supporting the artisans that we work with and efforts to keep this art form of tooling alive.

Very cool. How have you developed your skill at your craft?

By connecting with artisans and collaborating and sharing ideas. 

What is the hardest part of your creation process?

Sourcing the raw materials and creating enough product to meet demand. Inventory issues.

How has your style changed over time?

The designs of the handbags have changed to keep up with trends but the tooling has remained traditional to keep the cultural authenticity.

What’s your favorite item that you’re created, and why?

My latest design! See below:

What do you love most about Pasadena?

The transformation of how the city has invested in making old town better and their support of the arts.

We can’t wait to see you in person this November 19th & 20th at Jackalope Pasadena!

Where to see more of Ciselè Handcrafted Leather:

Website |www.cisele.net

Instagram | @Cisele2019