Today we’d like to introduce you to Sondra Barchard.
Hi Sondra; we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am an artist who specializes in custom seashell mirrors. Top designers across the U.S. have commissioned my work, including Mark Sikes, Rod Mickley, Thomas Burger, Carly Ahlman, Designers West, and Cynthia Collins. I also have many clients who choose to take decorating into their own hands, including a couple of butchers, bakers, and many homemakers. I started Seashore Chic in 1999 to get my husband to stop nagging me about returning to work once the kids were in school. I planned to spend mornings combing the beach for shells on Amelia Island and the rest of the day figuring out what to do with them. I became a partner in a shop in downtown Fernandina Beach and realized this could be a thing. A shell artist. Who knew? I now live in Melbourne Beach, Florida, with my husband Curt in an empty nest called the Coconut Cottage. I still comb the beach and hope you’ll choose me to make you a spectacular shell mirror.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been fairly smooth?
It took several years for Seashore Chic to get off the ground. Before then, I was pounding the pavement door to door. Success began after starting a website and paying constant attention to the content and information given to prospective clients. Learning mistakes in creative design was a big hit or miss.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
Seashore Chic specializes in high-end custom-designed shell mirrors. Working together with you to create your wildest visions of one-of-a-kind ocean-inspired pieces. Most works are commissioned and delivered within weeks. Styles in design cover a wide range, including colors, placement, size, and types of shells used.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
While finding my style, other shell artists have inspired creativity and hard work. Instagram is my favorite social media marketing tool. I have met shell artists from around the world there.
Contact Info:
- Website: seashore-chic.com
- Instagram: seashore chic
- Facebook: Seashore chic
Image Credits
Sondra Barchard
