We had the good fortune of connecting with Debbie Lennstrom-Beard and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Debbie, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?

I know that my great grandmother planted this seed; as it all started while visiting her as a young child. I was bored, she cut some glass bugle beads off of a lamp shade and said, “Let’s make something!” I’m sure this was a great influence in my life to be creative; as it allows me to express myself. As a child, I always enjoyed designing and creating jewelry as an accessory to complement my outfit. Pursuing a career in this art was not something I had ever thought of or intended to do. I never felt that I would be good enough. It just so happened that when I’d wear some of my personal creations it grabbed the attention of others. With encouragement from friends and family, it blossomed in a positive way that allows me to let my personality shine and showcase a large creative piece of myself. It also brings me joy and relaxation to sit in the studio and create.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am proud to be in the financial industry. I suppose it’s just in me to work in this field and help people reach their goals. It became a good work life and home balance for me. It’s also helped me professionally pursue my art. Of course, it’s totally different than art; but it does allow me to go home, leave work behind at the office and spend time in my studio creating.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week-long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First on the list might be the Pajama Run. Now if you don’t know about the Pajama Run, let me explain. I found out about the Pajama Run from a friend when I first moved to the Metroplex. It’s a late-night drive through the city and enjoying the night lights of the Dallas skyline while in your PJ’s. It requires a drive around Reunion Tower to get a panoramic view of downtown Dallas. The next day we would definitely be taking in one of the many fabulous art festivals. Depending on the time of year, options could be Main Street, Cottonwood Park or Huffines Park. If shopping is in order, we would make a visit to the Galleria or NorthPark. A leisurely walk-through Grapevine would include lunch at Main Street Bistro and Bakery followed by a visit to the Gaylord; perhaps even a train ride from Grapevine to the Fort Worth Stockyards. A visit to the edgy Deep Ellum District to peruse the quirky art galleries and perhaps enjoy a cold one and some live music at Hermann Hall would also be on the agenda. No doubt, we would be dining at some of the fine restaurants in Addison, such as Gloria’s Latin Cuisine and Table 13. Also, we would need to enjoy some leisure time on the home front in between all of the fabulous excursions our great city has to offer. Let’s not forget to squeeze in a trip to the lounge of the Library Bar, located in the Warwick Melrose, for some great piano and jazz music. Last but not least, no visit would be complete without a leisurely drive north and a walk-through of 3rd Monday Trade Days in McKinney to pick up a few funky finds on our way to Chestnut Square in downtown McKinney. Then a relaxing lunch at Eden Hill Vineyards to end our visit.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
That, of course, would be my Great Granny Richie. The nurse who stopped me while I was out shopping and wanted to know where I bought my necklace. Also, my dear friend Suzi, who encouraged me to take my work to a gallery in Seaside, Oregon where she showcased her pottery and introduced me to the owner. Grateful shout out to all my clients, friends, family, galleries and boutiques who have encouraged and supported me while following my passion to create.

Website: designsbydebbiel.com
Instagram: exclusivedesignsbydebbie
Facebook: @DesignsbydebbieL
Other: Pinterest – Exclusivedesignsbydebbie

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