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

Hi Leah, why did you pursue a creative career?
Something felt like it was missing in my life. I wasn’t quite sure what it was until I started making my jewelry. I never would have thought that 10 years later, we would have done close to 200 craft shows in the DFW area, worked so hard or had so much fun on our weekends, met so many amazing makers and patrons, and learned so much about marketing, putting my ideas out there for the world, and hoping that people would understand my vision. I had nothing to worry about; we have so many “seers” and so many repeat customers, including my own coworkers and family members. I am overwhelmed at the positive reception of my creations. I am truly blessed and thankful that I get to do this.

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.
I have been a part of the work force for 30 years now…I started out at Kroger as a bagger/cashier, earning $4.15 an hour. Since then, I have worked everywhere from fast food, to insurance collections, to the hospitality industry, to veterinary medicine, and even the zoo for a short period of time. I now work at a police department as an administrative technician to one of the police Captains. It is a challenging and rewarding job that I
plan to stay with until retirement. Each and every job that I have had has taught me something about life, about myself, and about the world around me. Some jobe were easier than others, but they all had their own unique challenges. I never felt overwhelmed or defeated; if I had a rough day, I would shake it off and start over the next day.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I absolutely have my favorite haunts! Most of the places that I like to visit are independently owned and operated; some by friends of mine! Any shop that supports small/local artists and makers is the place to go! A short list of favorite shops includes: Karin Wiseman Collection in Garland, East Dallas Vintage (Chelsea Callahan) in Dallas, Halcyon House in Colleyville, Curiosities in Dallas, and Green Bodega in Hurst. Antique shops are also an absolute must! As far as dining goes, Lazy Dog is at the top of my list, as well as Moon Wok in Bedford, Niki’s Italian Bistro in North Richland Hills, and El Fenix can’t be beat for Tex Mex. We could also visit several town squares such as: Denton, McKinney, Roanoke, Waxahachie, and Weatherford. As an animal lover, we would of course visit both the Dallas and Ft. Worth zoos, the Dallas World Aquarium, and, if time allows, In Sync Exotics in Wylie. Art is such an important part of any city’s culture, so a visit to the Dallas Museum of Art and the Kimbell Art Museum would be in order as well. My friend will go home well fed, broke, and very happy!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I could not have done this without the support of my husband, David. He has been nothing but encouraging, helpful, and amazing throughout this entire journey. He is my roadie, my PR, and my cheerleader. I love you, babe!

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

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