Today we’d like to introduce you to Jo Halpert
Hi Jo, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Jo Halpert and I am a seashell addict. When I was a young girl I visited a seashell shop for the very first time and I became filled with so much joy and excitement; I felt that it was the most amazing place that I had ever seen. That shop had seashells that I couldn’t find at our local beach. It offered the most amazing and beautiful seashells from all over the world, and so, that one visit was all that it took to make me a seashell addict. That was the early 80’s and I have been hunting for and collecting seashells ever since.
I come from a creative background too. With an Arts Degree and professional experience in both Interior and Floral Design, I combine my education, experience, passion and vision to create my own Decorative Arts with seashells. I share my shell work through my studio’s website and through my Etsy shop – Seashellington.
I hope that other seashell lovers will enjoy my hand-made, one-of-a-kind studio pieces, with my unique use of color combinations and patterns that highlights my particular design style for home decor and gifts.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My biggest challenge has been the classic story of the Working Mom. As a working Mom, it’s always especially challenging to balance taking care of a family and running a business. How much time in a day do you devote to focusing on your family? How much time in that same day do you set aside for the hands-on creative process and other important business, like marketing? If your attention is on the business, you can feel guilty that you are not focusing more on your family. If your attention is on your family, then you feel that your business isn’t going to grow like you dream. It can be really tough to find that balance. I am blessed that I have the support of my family, and there are times when I can involve them in my work; which really helps me. I have also found that practicing patience and working towards achievable goals keeps me more balanced. And smiling.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I love the classic, vintage shell work of days gone by, and take inspiration from those early artists, but I hope to design for the needs of today. I like an uncluttered, elegant look, but seashells in abundance are just so gorgeous.
I particularly enjoy working with clients on custom designs for their home or office, or for a personalized gift. Whether it be a mirror design for a new home, a personalized gift photo frame for a newly engaged or newlywed couple, or a special jewelry or watch box for a special person, seashells can make a unique and dramatic statement piece for someone who loves shells, the beach, sailing or island hopping. Incorporating seashells from my client’s own collection, or travels, can really make a piece that much more special and memorable. A lasting heirloom to pass down.
Pricing:
- Mini Seashell Frames 2×3″, 4×4″ – start at $45 and include shipping
- Commissioned Pieces Prices Vary According To Size, Labor & Shipping
- I am happy to work within a set budget.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.seashellington.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seashellington/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Seashellington/61559288226327/
- Other: https://seashellington.etsy.com
Image Credits
All photos taken by Jo Halpert of Seashellington.com
