How would you describe your specialty handcraft?

I originally started making candles and wax melts because I love scented and colorful products. I developed a soy/wax blend over a few years that melted at a lower temperature, but still have a great scent. Once we moved back to North Dakota after spending 12 years living in the South, I had to start changing my skin care routine. I was disappointed to have to choose between fragrance free body care products or use popular big box retailers who sold items with an ingredients list I couldn’t pronounce. I developed a line of products that filled that niche and allowed me to have control over each ingredient.

What or who inspired you to become involved in it?

I started creating my own personal items for a few years. We lost our daughter in a car accident and it became a wonderful therapeutic tool for myself and my husband. My hobby and therapeutic tool soon became my very well loved business: Lady Calla Creations.

How long have you been doing this type of work?

I started creating candles and wax in 2011 and added bath and body products in 2012. I still have the very first candle I ever made to remind me of the very beginning!

Do you do it for your own pleasure or offer it for sale?

My hobby has become something I do for my own pleasure as well as to sell. There are some items that I make just special for myself, friends, and family. My products are sold online (www.etsy.com/shop/ladycallacreations), at 1 North Main in Garrison as well as Hazen Drug and Washburn Drug, and at many craft shows throughout the year.

Where can we see your handcraft?

My products can be seen on my etsy page, Hazen Drug and Washburn Drug all year long. An exclusive line of products are also available at 1 North Main in Garrison. I attend many craft shows throughout the year including: Dickens Village Festival Piccadilly Square Craft Show, Pride of Dakota Holiday Showcases, The Big One and more. Also, you can find my shop on Facebook at Lady Calla Creations.

Is your handcraft available for sale and if so, where?

I sell online as well! You can find my shop on my facebook page Lady Calla Creations.

My products can be purchased on my etsy page, 1 North Main in Garrison, Hazen Drug, Washburn Drug, and the many craft shows I attend.

Have you taught others your handcraft and if so, would you be willing to teach it to others?

I have a few friends who I have helped formulate recipes. I love talking about my handmade items so I am always willing to help people get started!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised at Minot Air Force Base until I was 3 when my family moved to New York. My husband was in the Army so we moved 14 times until we made our home in Garrison three years ago. My husband of 22 years and I have a son Jeff who lives in Minot and a daughter Julie.