About

I grew up in a family of makers. My mother started her own small business selling handmade children's clothing at craft fairs when I was very young. My father came home from his full time job to work a second job managing the embroidery machinery used to apply designs to my mother's creations. I was fortunate enough to be able to witness, firsthand, the transformation of a raw good into something beautiful and useful. 

In 2002, I graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a degree in Textiles, Merchandising and Design. From there, I was quickly hired by my (now) in-laws to fill a vacant spot in their office as an optician. For several years, my work included completing office tasks, helping patients choose appropriate eyewear and assembling and repairing eyeglasses. While it was not what I planned to do after I graduated, it was certainly a fulfilling experience and an opportunity for which I will be forever grateful.

The past 16 years of my life have been spent raising my two daughters and volunteering in the community and at their schools. Throughout my many life experiences, I have always been a maker. I am now at a point in life where I have the opportunity to integrate my love of design with my creations. Thus CharBella Designs was born. Thank you for visiting my shop!