I grew up in Southampton, PA, and have always been extremely creative. I loved to put puzzles together, draw pictures, make jewelry for my friends and build things. Growing up, I took many art classes, beading classes, jewelry making class. I was always interested in how something was made and tried to reproduce it and make it myself. I attended Philadelphia University and graduated with a degree in Industrial Design. I was able to use my talents while going to school. I built a chair out of steel and rubber strips and it is still in my room at home. My senior project was to design something that could be used to stimulate a child’s sensory responses. I built a large padded foot that has winding bars on it for a baby to hold onto and it has different objects that move around the foot that make various sounds and have different textures.
I have a very diverse background working as a Product Design Engineer in graphic design, home fixtures, after market automotive parts, vehicle radiators and medical devices. About 4 years ago I became a small business owner when I purchased a gift boutique in Manayunk, PA, which is called Latitudes and Longitudes. Not only do I sell products for all members of the family from jewelry, candles, wine accessories, cards, children toys, but I also design many of the products and display fixtures in my business. I am on the Manayunk Development Corporation Board as one of the officers and help to make decisions that will make Manayunk the place people want to go to for shopping and dining out. I am always interested in continuing with my design skills and have taken on design projects in addition to running my business. My life is very busy but I enjoy every minute of it.