MONOLISA is Celebrating 8 Years in Business

What was surprising that happened in 2025? Dealing with unexpected health issues.

It’s funny how life reroutes you. I didn’t plan for it, but the detour reminded me to slow down, prioritize recovery, and still create beauty in the pockets of time I had. Somehow the work felt even more meaningful. To learn more about my journey, read my blog article: When the Gut Takes Over: My Personal Journey with a Digestive Health Setback in 2025.

What was the hardest part of 2025?Getting Covid-19 for the first time in February. It triggered IBS and for a moment I truly thought I was going to have to retire. I’m now on a strict FODMAP diet, which has made a big difference — but it’s still not easy. Some days I feel strong and steady, and other days I’m managing symptoms and just trying to make it through the show day.

It taught me that healing isn’t linear. I had to rebuild my routine around rest, food planning, and pacing — and slowly the fog lifted. Boundaries, preparation, and kindness toward myself became part of my creative process.

What was the most challenging show? North Beach Festival. Parking was far away, and my scooter couldn’t conquer those San Francisco hills.

Great crowds and energy—tough logistics. I learned the magic on show day depends on what happens long before it: access, terrain, and realistic routes. The silver lining? People are good. I was struggling to get my booth items to my van in the middle of a busy San Francisco street when my friends Samar and Ali from SAMALI Perfumes came to my rescue. I was overwhelmed by their kindness and generosity.

The biggest lesson I learned this year? Stick with shows that are on flat land and logistically make sense for me.

Simple, but powerful. Choosing the right environments lets me show up as my best self for customers—and protect the energy I need to create.

What changes did I make to my studio this year? Not much! Finally, I feel like I have all the machines and tools I need.

After years of tweaking—working to pay for my equipment—the studio flows. Everything has a purpose, and that calm shows up in the work.

What is my favorite MONOLISA piece I created?

My Argentium® silver gemstone flower ring collection. Check it out!

I’ve dreamed of making a flower ring for years. I always knew I could do it—but first, I had to figure out the process in my head. It took patience, trial and error, and a lot of small adjustments, but I finally brought the vision to life. Seeing it completed felt like a full-circle moment in my creative journey.

What new piece of equipment am I obsessed with? Nothing to report this year. Currently, I’m sticking with what I have. That makes me feel perfectly content.

The focus was less on gadgets and more on craft—refining techniques, design decisions, and finishing work.

What was I most nervous about this year? Doing North Beach Festival, because of my health issues. I wasn't sure I could make it.

Those hills were no joke. I could only make it one day because I wasn’t feeling well. When I had to pack up my entire booth Saturday night, I wasn’t sure how I’d manage — but thanks to the kindness of friends, I made it through. Their help meant the world to me.

What was most fun about 2025? Being at the shows—styling customers and catching up about life.

I love watching when someone instantly connects with a MONOLISA piece. Add in the artist community and all the laughter—pure joy. Looking forward to more in 2026.

What helped me do better at art shows & festivals this year? Getting a Yeti ice cooler on wheels.

It sounds small, but it changed everything—real meals, cold water, and energy that lasted through the hottest weekends.

If I could change anything about 2025 what would it be?Not having to get up so early on the weekends! Getting up at 3 a.m., eating breakfast, following my health program, and packing those last-minute items I can’t prepare the night before can be tough. It means going to bed extremely early while trying to stay calm and actually get some sleep. The tough parts reminded me how important it is to protect my health, pace myself, and build a routine that truly supports both my work and my well-being.

Favorite part about 2025? Seeing customers and spending quiet time in my studio creating.

Those two worlds—connection and solitude—are the heartbeat of MONOLISA.

What am I most grateful for in 2025?

The continued customer support I receive—it allows me to do what I love: creating with my hands. Thank you so much to everyone! And a huge thank-you to my friend Nancy for helping at shows. I still can’t believe I used to do 150 shows completely on my own—so much time spent talking to myself… so silly!

Now that I have help, I can actually take breaks, walk around, and shop local artists. It’s been such a joy discovering and supporting the amazing makers around me. Take a peek at some of the beautiful pieces I’ve collected!

What was the easiest part about 2025? Just doing what I do—creating and going to art shows and festivals.

When the work fits, the days move with ease.

What will I not repeat in 2026?Not spending the night at hotels—or traveling too far geographically.

I’m trimming down my show schedule and focusing on events that align with my health, logistics, and customer base. After doing more than 200 shows, I’ve learned what truly works. I also realize how valuable it is to sleep in my own bed at night. Sometimes driving a little farther to get home after a show is absolutely worth going the extra mile.