Hi, we are 1 plus 1,

We are a couple-owned business, also known as an "entrepreneurial couple". A mix of two kinds of artists. My husband is an artisan welder and also works in big buildings. I am a photographer/graphic designer/teacher and after I was diagnosed with breast cancer I became a jewelry maker.

We believe in our magical and meaningful contribution of ideas to create all our 100% handmade pieces with care and love. Working together is the best way to foster ingenuity that makes us grow in our business and as a couple. We have passion for what we do, so we spend delightful time brainstorming ideas and seeing how our ideas become a reality.

After my diagnosis in 2021, I went through a long period of chemotherapy, then came a double mastectomy. During that time we had the infinite joy of enjoying our family and friends who gave us the support to get us through this process. At that time I continued working as a pre-k teacher, my students and coworkers also filled this new experience with joy and support.

But time passed, and my need to create, to do something that occupied my creative mind woke up again and I asked myself, what now? Previously we worked in wood, designing meditation benches, dog feeders, furniture, and ornaments.

Unfortunately, my new physical condition did not allow me to work with the large pieces of wood that I was used to make, so I had before me a new opportunity to reinvent myself by doing something different on a smaller scale.

That's how Dear Irene began, this new dream that bears my mother's name. She died several years ago, also from cancer and she is the person I have loved more than anyone in this world. She was my partner and friend and she has given me the strength to move forward from wherever she is. Dear Irene is a project that led me to study the art of ceramics and how to implement it in jewelry. I also learned how to make necklaces, earrings, and many other ornaments, I am so happy to have found a new tool to create, a new challenge that is making me dream again, and enjoy every second of my life.