We had the good fortune of connecting with Cherie Herne and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cherie, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My journey began against the backdrop of Maine’s southern coast, where beachcombing has been my lifelong source of rejuvenation and inspiration. A past life as a graphic and web designer gave way to a transformative chapter when a Lyme disease diagnosis shone a light on the ocean’s remarkable healing properties. Battling the foggy haze in my mind and the aches in my body, I found solace on the shore, and thus, the seeds of Maine Salty Girl were sown.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Cherie, that’s me, embodies a touch of mermaid magic! My spirit is both salty and spicy, unafraid to roll up my pants and dive into creativity. I’m inspired to create decor that brings joy to people’s lives, knowing that I’m making someone smile or uplifting a person who has suffered a loss.

Passionate about bringing the outdoors inside, I believe in the power of balance and tranquility. Through my hands-on approach, I fearlessly embrace the elements, infusing my unique driftwood creations with the serene beauty of nature. It feels incredible to see how my work touches others and brings a bit of outdoor wonder into their homes, fostering a sense of peace and harmony.

My artistic journey is a whimsical dance, guided by my discerning eye for natural elegance, resulting in truly incomparable works of driftwood decor. From enchanting driftwood wedding arches to personalized signs, my artistry finds a cherished place in the hearts of countless special occasions and coastal abodes nationwide.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Here’s a list of some of the places and things I’d take them to see/do:

Favorite places to eat: Old Village Inn Pub – Ogunquit, Flo’s Hot Dos – Cape Neddick, Bob’s Clam Hut – Kittery, Beachfire Grill – Ogunquit, Ogunquit Lobster Pound – Ogunquit

Beaches to visit: Perkin’s Cove – Ogunquit, Kennebunk Beach, Fort Foster – Kittery Point, Plum Island – Newburyport, MA, Goose Rock Beach – Kennebunkport, Dead Duck Boat Launch – Eliot, Popham Beach – Phippsburg

Things to do: paddle board in York Harbor, paddleboard in Newmarket, NH, visit the little town Freeport as well as nearby beaches, play golf at Merriland Farms 3 Par in Wells, go to local farmer’s markets

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to my beloved daughter, Nakita. Her unwavering support and boundless love have been my guiding light through the darkest tunnels of my battle with Lyme Disease. Nakita’s presence has been a soothing balm to my weary soul, offering not just assistance but a shoulder to lean on in times of despair.

Her dedication knows no bounds; she has selflessly devoted herself to every aspect of my journey, from marketing to shipping, from collecting driftwood to endless brainstorming sessions. Each task, each effort, has been infused with her love and commitment, a testament to her unwavering devotion.

In moments when I felt utterly defeated, Nakita’s resilience and belief in me have reignited the flames of hope within my heart. Without her steadfast presence by my side, I shudder to think where I would be today. Nakita, you are not just my daughter, but my guardian angel, my rock, my inspiration. Thank you for being the beacon of light in my darkest hours, for without you, I may have lost my way long ago.

Website: mainesaltygirl.com

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saltygirlandthelongdog

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-cRomVImjbInzQj0XxFcfg

Other: https://www.pinterest.com/mainesaltygirl/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.