Meet Natalie De Ranieri of San Francisco

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie De Ranieri.

Hi Natalie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I have always loved art and creativity. I grew up in a family business surrounded by art. My Dad was also really creative and I learned from him. We used to decorate our house every year for Halloween with statues from the family business. (A.Silvestri Co). My mom taught me how to sell and how to do business and deal with the public. I think I also inherited the creative Gene from My Great Grandparents and Grandparents. It has also been a way of life for me. Having a creative outlet is so beneficial for my mental health and my quality of life. The thing I struggle with is feeling like I am wasting my talent and not getting enough credit or validation for all of my potential, That is really frustrating especially when I know what I am capable of and it doesn’t reflect in my finances, Also when people copy me hurts.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all! It is so hard. There have been so many setbacks and issues. Raising three kids is really hard and takes a lot of my time. Making art is really expensive, time consuming, and messy! I also go through phases when I am out of ideas. The economy also makes you question your worth! Not having the support I need to help also makes things difficult. I wish I had more time. Being with partners that their jobs or schooling take a lot of time takes away from my goals. Someone has to hold the Homefront down for the kids. Working full time also takes away a lot of energy and time to put toward my creative side.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I work with my mom at our family business in San Francisco. I sell fountains, statues, planters, pizza ovens, benches, and so much more! This opportunity has allowed me to meet some of the most interesting people ever! I love helping people decorate their gardens and cater to their individual needs. I love customers coming in and making them really happy and comfortable with making such a big purchase. It is so rewarding after to see pictures of their yards. I love doing craft fairs where I apply for a booth, Make candles, concrete, resin, and crocheted pieces to the event and selling directly to customers on the spot! Sadly I don’t have enough time to dedicate to doing every show. A lot of shows are also hard to get into. I am taking some time off to spend with my 3 year old that really needs me right now,

Who else deserves credit in your story?
My mom Sandra, My sister DIna, My Dad Frank. My late Nonno Luigi who believed in me. My entire family who believed in me. My art teachers my entire life, Douglass and Sturgess an art supply company who walked me through so many mold making questions. Miguel our mold maker who took me under his wing. The crucible in Oakland when I took intro to mold making. My loving partner, My loyal clients who always support me. Jeremy and Neils in Palm Springs.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanconcretesf/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Natalierosedesign/