About the Artist

Ever since I was a little girl, I loved to create things. On the street where I grew up, my neighbors were always asking to see what I had in my pockets. Probably something I found in the trash or on the street that I thought was marvelous (why would anyone throw THIS away? — I can use that!) and definitely a tiny handmade envelope with an even tinier handwritten letter inside... My brother and I were taken to tons of auctions as kids. The vintage bug grabbed a hold of me then and has never let go.

I live in a self restored 1909 house surrounded by antique and vintage pieces. I also do Garden and Landscape Design — I have the great pleasure of working with my husband, Bob. I started my business, Bittersweet Design Studio, so that I could be a stay at home, work from home, mom.

I have a BS in Interior Design from Drexel University (where my first year design teacher, Dennis Will, emphasized the 'craft' of an item), and an MA in Public History/Historic Preservation from West Virginia University. While pursuing my MA, I did tons of research on antiques and vintage items, and used this background of knowledge to buy and sell antiques to help pay for my education.

Since that time I have renovated corporate headquarters, as well as designed interiors for Ex-Governor of Texas John Connally and his wife Nellie. Projects were as simple as color selections through complete interiors  for homes valued over 2 million dollars in the 1980s. My history endeavours include work and contributions on several books, the restoration of 4 homes, and lectures on architecture/restoration.

Vintage adventures have included my finds being used in ad campaigns (including Tommy Hilfiger), photo props for artists, items featured in Etsy Treasuries as well as in global emails, and sending out items worldwide.

My handmade products have been featured on the Today Show as well as decor8blog.com, published in Pushing the Envelope by Lark books, and delivered to many happy spots in thousands of homes.

My ongoing mission with the interior design side of my business is working with homeowners in an eco-friendly manner to refine their style and truly love their home.