DECEMBER 2023
SEPT/OCT 2023
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14 COVER STORY FASHION DESIGNER Erin Nesmith
36 SPECIAL FEATURE A Celtic Christmas by A Taste Of Ireland
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52 SPECIAL FEATURE Disney On Ice
62 HOLIDAY PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT Fernwick Artisans
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Dear Readers,
As we wrap up another incredible year, I am thrilled to present our annual holiday gift guide edition of Rochester Woman, Online magazine celebrating the spirit of the holidays. In this special issue, we spotlight Erin Nesmith, a remarkable individual who epitomizes empowerment through her innovative fusion of fashion and art. Erin graces our cover, symbolizing her unwavering commitment to uplifting women through her visionary creativity. And, WOWWW do the photos captured by the amazing Christopher Cardwell epitomize her vision perfectly! Discover Erin’s inspiring journey alongside a couple engaging special features in this edition. Dive into the enchanting allure of A Celtic Christmas By A Taste Of Ireland, live at the Smith Opera House in Geneva, New York December 6th. Plus, feel the magic of Disney on Ice as it arrives in Rochester from December 14-17. Moreover, don’t miss the chance to explore and support fantastic advertisers, offering unique gift ideas for everyone on your holiday list this season. Embrace the joy of giving while endorsing local businesses and their incredible offerings. Looking ahead to 2024, our team is excited about what’s to come. Join us for some amazing last-minute holiday popups and shop experiences that promise delightful finds and festive cheer in the meantime to end out 2023. I invite each of you to immerse yourselves in the pages of this special edition, embracing the holiday spirit and the magic of celebration. May your holidays be filled with joy, love, and unforgettable moments. See everyone with a New Year and New You in 2024! Sincerely, With gratitude and inspiration,
Kelly Breuer T T ON OUR COVER Fashion designer, artist, and empowering woman, Erin Nesmith was photographed in studio by Christopher “Goodknews” Cardwell.
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YOUERIN ARENESMITH ENOUGH. BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER “GOODKNEWS” CARDWELL & EDWIN SHAW
Erin Nesmith: Crafting Empowerment Through Fashion and Art In the captivating world of fashion and artistic expression, Erin Nesmith stands tall as a beacon of creativity and empowerment. A luminary in the industry, she began as an artist (painter) and then as a lingerie designer, weaving threads of elegance and confidence through her intricate designs. Over time, her canvas expanded beyond the vivid strokes of a canvas, and began infusing her designs with a unique blend of artistry and fashion. However, Erin’s passion transcends the mere aesthetics of clothing and canvas. It delves into a deeper purpose rooted in uplifting women and advocating for mental health and body positivity. Her profound dedication to the cause led her to cultivate a platform that transcends conventional fashion narratives. With each stitch and silhouette, Erin weaves stories of strength, resilience, and the celebration of individuality. Her collections resonate as more than just garments; they echo a narrative of empowerment, amplifying the beauty of being unapologetically oneself. As Rochester Woman Online Magazine presents its annual holiday gift guide, Erin Nesmith graces the cover—a testament to her unwavering 14
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commitment to elevating women through her artistry and fashion prowess. Her vision extends beyond the realm of design; it’s a powerful movement that speaks volumes about embracing authenticity and self-assurance. Erin Nesmith’s story embodies a fusion of creativity
and advocacy, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their uniqueness and walk confidently along their own path. Could you share a bit about your
background and journey into the world of fashion design? My journey in designing began as an artist(painter) with a passion for embracing the female form. I eventually merged my love for art and fashion by designing a collection of lingerie and art that was inspired by different art historical periods. Starting as a lingerie designer allowed me to explore the intricate balance between sensuality and confidence in women. This inspired me to start designing formal womenswear which is now at the forefront of my brand! My devotion to empowering women goes beyond fashion. I’ve made it my mission to raise awareness about mental health and body positivity, creating a platform that uplifts women through every stitch and silhouette. With each collection, I’m not just designing clothes; I’m crafting a narrative that speaks to strength, resilience, and the beauty of being unapologetically yourself. As a couture fashion designer, what elements or aspects do you find most captivating or unique in this industry? Without a doubt, what captivates me most about the fashion industry is the extraordinary ability to not only forecast prevailing trends but also infuse them with my distinctive, creative flair, thus birthing entirely new trends. This process is an intricate dance between my keen understanding of the existing fashion
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YOU ARE ENOUGH.
“It was like seeing my imagination come to life, each stitch and silhouette embodying the creative visions that once existed solely in my mind.” BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO
landscape and my innate creativity to reimagine it. Your brand, Erin Nesmith, signifies stepping into one’s purpose. Could you elaborate on the inspiration behind this mission? The inspiration behind the mission of Erin Nesmith as a brand that signifies stepping into one’s purpose is deeply rooted in a personal journey of selfdiscovery and empowerment. Growing up, I navigated the twists and turns of life, facing moments of self-doubt and uncertainty. It was during these times that I found solace and strength in the world of fashion. Fashion, for me, became more than just a form of expression; it evolved into a transformative tool, a means to embrace individuality and celebrate personal strength. The mission emerged from the profound belief that every individual has a unique purpose and a story that deserves to be told. It’s about acknowledging that fashion is not just about clothing; it’s a powerful language that can articulate one’s identity, values, and aspirations. The mission is not a mere slogan; it’s a commitment to creating a brand that goes beyond the surface, beyond trends and aesthetics. It’s about crafting designs that resonate with the diverse narratives of the women who wear them. The garments become a canvas for self-expression, an embodiment of strength, resilience, and the beauty that exists in every woman. Among the materials you work with, do you have a favorite to design with? 18
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If so, what draws you to that particular material? While I appreciate the diverse qualities of each material, I find velvet to be my favorite to design with. Velvet, to me, is the epitome of beauty, luxury, and timelessness. Its rich history dates back centuries, with origins in Eastern cultures where it was considered a symbol of prestige and nobility. The intricate weaving process creates a soft, sumptuous fabric with a unique sheen that catches the light, adding a touch of opulence. Throughout history, velvet has adorned royalty and played a significant role in the world of fashion, representing both elegance and extravagance. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a sense of sophistication and glamor, making it a timeless choice for creating luxurious and statement pieces. Could you describe the contrast between participating in a pageant as a contestant and serving as a judge in a pageant? As a contestant, the experience was about showcasing my individuality. Serving as a judge shifted the focus to evaluating and appreciating the varied expressions of beauty, drawing from my own experience of walking that path. Being on both sides of the table has given me a new insight and appreciation for pageants. I now know firsthand how it feels to be in front and behind the judge’s table with the timed pressure to get the perfect questions and answers out. What was the most rewarding part of the experience for you? The most rewarding aspect was witnessing
my growth in confidence and selfexpression. I competed against 184 contestants and my confidence did not waiver once. I worked hard to prepare for the pageant to show up as the best version of myself. There was nothing more I could do other than be authentically myself. It reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of embracing one’s uniqueness and the positive impact it can have on an individual’s journey. Within your collections, do you have a favorite design? What makes it stand out to you? While every design is cherished, my favorite design is the 2023 Grammy gown I designed and made for fashion model, Grace Modi. I loved the creativity of fusing our ideas and coming up with such a beautiful gown. The velvet and hand beading on the gown were exquisite. Your designs are personalized for each client. Could you share an experience working with a favorite client and what made it special? Each one of my client experiences is special. I would leave any specific one out as a favorite as each client is a unique experience. What makes an experience special is crafting a design that reflects the client’s personality and style, and the joy and excitement I receive when they witness and try on the final masterpiece. That is the best part about being a designer. What emotions or thoughts ran through your mind the first time you witnessed your designs on a runway? Witnessing my designs on the runway
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YOU ARE ENOUGH.
“Fashion, for me, became more than just a form of expression; it evolved into a transformative tool, a means to embrace individuality and celebrate personal strength.” BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO
for the first time was a surreal moment, a tangible realization of the depth of my talent. It was like seeing my imagination come to life, each stitch and silhouette embodying the creative visions that once existed solely in my mind. The runway became a transformative stage, affirming my capabilities and emphasizing the power of translating ideas into tangible, breathtaking pieces. It was a profound confirmation that my journey as a fashion designer was not just a pursuit but a genuine expression of artistry and skill. How do you balance creativity and practicality when creating one-ofa-kind pieces for individual clients? Balancing creativity and practicality involves understanding the client’s style deeply, infusing unique design elements, and ensuring the garment aligns seamlessly with their event goals. It’s about creating pieces that are both expressive and functional. What are some of the challenges you face when customizing designs to reflect a client’s personality and style? The challenge lies in accurately interpreting a client’s vision. Effective communication and a deep understanding of their preferences are crucial to ensuring the final design resonates authentically with their personality and style. Can you discuss the fusion of tradition and innovation in your design process? The fusion involves drawing inspiration from cultural elements and infusing them with modern design techniques. It’s about creating timeless pieces that carry a sense of heritage while remaining relevant in contemporary fashion, striking
the balance between tradition and innovation. How do you ensure that your creations reflect both the brand’s identity and the client’s individuality? Achieving this balance involves a collaborative design process. This is achieved through an authentic process where I draw inspiration from within, molding the vision to seamlessly intertwine with the client’s desires. It’s about staying true to my creative roots while tailoring each piece to resonate uniquely with the wearer. In your opinion, what are the key elements that elevate a design from being fashionable to being timeless? Crafting timeless designs is an art of construction and an embrace of versatility. It’s about creating pieces that stand the test of time, transcending fleeting trends and becoming cherished staples in a wardrobe. Timelessness, to me, is intricately linked with quality, so I prioritize using the finest fabrics and innovative sewing techniques in my creations. This approach ensures that each piece is not just a passing trend but a lasting symbol of enduring style and craftsmanship. Could you share a memorable or significant moment that profoundly impacted your career as a fashion designer? Experiencing my design on the Grammy red carpet was an unforgettable and significant moment in my career. Witnessing my creation stand out among designs from renowned designers was a surreal and proud realization of
how far I’ve come. It was a moment of validation, affirming the unique voice and perspective I bring to the fashion industry. The Grammys provided a prestigious platform, and having my design in that spotlight marked a defining moment that fueled my determination to continue pushing boundaries and creating impactful designs. As someone who believes in stepping into one’s purpose, how do you infuse this philosophy into your design principles? Stepping into one’s purpose is not just a philosophy; it’s the heartbeat of Erin Nesmith’s design principles. As a designer, my commitment to empowerment goes beyond the aesthetics of clothing. It’s about infusing every stitch with a narrative of strength, resilience, and self-discovery. Each design becomes a canvas, reflecting the fusion of adventure, elegance, and the unyielding spirit of women. This philosophy is an intentional convergence of my passions and purpose. It’s about crafting pieces that not only make a fashion statement but also resonate with the wearer on a personal level. Fashion has the power to be transformative, and through Erin Nesmith, I aim to inspire women to embrace their uniqueness and embark on their journeys of self-discovery. The brand is a celebration of the remarkable fusion of adventure, fashion, and the indomitable spirit of women. What advice would you give to aspiring designers looking to establish their unique brand and style in the fashion industry? ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: HOLIDAY EDITION 2023 21
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CREATIVITY and practicality involves understanding the client’s style deeply, infusing UNIQUE design elements, and ensuring the garment aligns seamlessly with their event goals. It’s about creating pieces that are both EXPRESSIVE and functional. 22
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“Without a doubt, what captivates me most about the fashion industry is the extraordinary ability to not only forecast prevailing trends but also infuse them with my distinctive, creative flair, thus birthing entirely new trends.” My advice is to stay true to your unique voice, draw inspiration from your journey, and relentlessly pursue your vision. Authenticity is key in establishing a brand and style that resonates with both the creator and the audience. How important is sustainability to you in your design process, and how do you incorporate it into your brand’s ethos? Sustainability is a fundamental principle in my design process, and I actively incorporate it into the ethos
of Erin Nesmith. I am committed to minimizing the environmental impact of my creations by choosing sustainable materials, implementing eco-friendly production practices, and promoting ethical craftsmanship. This commitment aligns with the evolving values of conscious consumers and reflects a deeper responsibility towards the planet and future generations. I believe that incorporating sustainability into my brand is not just a choice but a necessity to contribute positively to the
fashion industry and the world at large. Looking ahead, what future aspirations or projects do you have for Erin Nesmith that you’re excited about? The future holds exciting prospects for Erin Nesmith, including expanding collaborations, launching new collections, and further integrating fashion with impactful initiatives that transcend globally.
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A CELTIC CHRISTMAS BY A TASTE OF IRELAND What can audiences expect from “A Celtic Christmas By A Taste of Ireland” at the Smith Opera House in Geneva, New York on December 7? Audiences will be transported to the enchanting world of Christmas in Ireland, where vibrant music and dance capture the essence of the festive season. This feel-good show promises a touch of Irish charm, featuring a company with over 15 leading Irish dancers and musicians, including stars from renowned productions like Riverdance and Lord of the Dance. With its heart-warming appeal, the show is the ideal Christmas celebration for the entire family, offering audiences a magical experience filled with joy and holiday spirit. How does this performance blend traditional Celtic elements with the spirit of Christmas? The A Celtic Christmas soundtrack, meticulously composed in 2022, seamlessly blends an authentic Celtic traditional essence with a modern flair, complemented by a sprinkle of beloved Christmas carols. While the choreography boasts a contemporary touch and the costumes dazzle, the performance joyfully honors Irish culture through its captivating music and dance. It also embraces the enchantment of the most wonderful time of the year.
Who are the key performers in this production, and what are their backgrounds in Irish music and dance? The show highlights outstanding international and local talents, featuring Donegal twins Gavin Shevlin (two-time world champion from Riverdance and Lord of the Dance) and Niamh Shevlin (lead dancer from Lord of the Dance), along with Julia O’Rourke, a four-time World Champion born in the USA and star of ‘JIG.’ With a wealth of Irish
dancing titles and extensive experience in top productions, the remarkable cast of A Celtic Christmas mixes some of the worlds best competitive and show dancing talents. What makes this show a familyfriendly treat for all ages? A Celtic Christmas is a familyfriendly delight for all ages, weaving together enchanting storytelling, heartwarming Irish charm, and the magic of Christmas. The show features
a perfect blend of traditional tunes, beloved carols, and jaw-dropping dance talent, creating an unforgettable experience that appeals to both young and old. The festive extravaganza, filled with laughter and Christmas cheer, ensures a joyous celebration for families, making it the ideal Christmas night out for everyone to share in the holiday spirit. Could you describe the storyline or theme of the performance? In the enchanting story of A Celtic Christmas, spectators journey to the heart of Irish holiday traditions. This production skillfully intertwines the richness of Celtic culture with festive merriment, crafting a magical experience brimming with lively music, captivating dance, and storytelling through the art of movement and melody. Witness as two starcrossed lovers twirl beneath the mistletoe, following the narrative of Molly and Seamus, who, despite falling in love, find themselves separated during the Christmas season. The show beautifully unfolds a tale of romance, creating a festive ambiance that resonates with the spirit of the holidays. How are award-winning Irish musicians integrated into the show’s presentation? In A Celtic Christmas, award-winning ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: HOLIDAY EDITION 2023 37
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YOU ARE ENOUGH.
“A Celtic Christmas is a family-friendly delight for all ages, weaving together enchanting storytelling, heartwarming Irish charm, and the magic of Christmas.” BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO
Irish musicians play a crucial role, infusing the show with exceptional musical prowess. The live musicians bring raw authenticity to their performances, contributing to a carefully curated soundtrack that blends authentic Celtic traditions with a modern twist, incorporating beloved Christmas carols. Their talents add depth and emotion to the overall performance, enhancing the festive ambiance of A Celtic Christmas to create an unforgettable experience for the audience. What sets the choreography of Gaeltorce Dance and Rhythms of Ireland apart in this production? Probably best to remove this one – the show is choreographed by Brent who has been in these shows as opposed to choreography from these shows. Are there specific elements or scenes that highlight the magic of Christmas in Ireland? In A Celtic Christmas, specific scenes beautifully capture the magic of Christmas in Ireland, emphasizing the significance of family and friends coming together during this festive season. The show intricately weaves together the heart-warming traditions of Irish culture, showcasing the importance of togetherness and shared moments. The enchanting scenes underscore the magic of Irish Christmas, portraying the joy and unity that comes from celebrating with loved ones. Irish music plays a pivotal role, acting as a cultural thread that binds people together, creating a magical and resonant atmosphere
throughout the performance. Can you share insights into the selection of traditional tunes, heartfelt ballads, and favorite carols featured in the performance? The show features some of the most beloved Irish tunes and Christmas songs such as Wild Rover, Christmas in Killarney, The Christmas Song, Jingle Bells, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer and more. What distinguishes the production team of Brent Pace and Celli Moore in their roles as choreographers and lead soloists? Accomplished Irish dancers and lead soloists Brent Pace and Ceili Moore, bring extensive experience and expertise to their roles as choreographers in A Celtic Christmas. With numerous Irish Dancing titles and starring in productions like Gaelforce Dance, Riverdance and Lord of the Dance between them, their innovative choreography seamlessly blends traditional Irish dance with modern flair. Their deep understanding of Irish music and dance traditions, combined with theatrical elements, results in a unique and captivating performance. Beyond Irish Dance, their diverse background in music and choreography allows them to creatively push boundaries, ensuring a spectacular fusion of storytelling, charm, and technical brilliance—a truly unforgettable holiday experience. Are there any surprises or unique aspects audiences can anticipate during the show?
Audiences can look forward to a truly immersive experience with A Celtic Christmas. The elimination of prerecorded taps and the incorporation of 100% live dancing create an interactive dimension, allowing performers to embrace the spontaneity and beauty of live theater. This unique element removes the limits imposed by prerecorded tracks, enabling genuine engagement with the audience meaning no two shows are the same! Each show becomes a distinct and magical experience, contributing to the overall beauty and charm of A Celtic Christmas. It promises to be an ever-evolving spectacle, ensuring an unforgettable performance for every audience member. What audience interactions or participatory moments are included in the show? During one of the male live a’capella numbers, the boys interact with the audience members, and dependent on the crowd the performance can certainly go in different directions. Nevertheless, they always have the ‘craic’ which is the Irish word for fun and is certainly one of the best parts of the show. Could you highlight any special visual or technical elements that enhance the overall experience of the performance? A Celtic Christmas uses carefully planned sets, costumes, visuals, and narration to tell its story. The set, costumes, and visuals are designed to represent Christmas in Ireland, and they play a part in the storytelling. ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: HOLIDAY EDITION 2023 41
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YOU ARE ENOUGH.
“With its heart-warming appeal, the show is the ideal Christmas celebration for the entire family, offering audiences a magical experience filled with joy and holiday spirit.” BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO
The narration, combined with these elements, aims to create a cohesive performance. How does the production create a heartwarming atmosphere for the audience? T h e p ro d u c t i o n a c h i e ve s a heartwarming atmosphere through authenticity, humor, incredible dancing, and lots of laughter. The genuine portrayal of Irish culture, combined with moments of wit and humor, connects with the audience emotionally. The exceptional dancing, performed with skill and passion, adds to the overall warmth, creating an experience that resonates with the joy and spirit of the festive season. 42
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What inspired the decision to tour the United States after successful runs in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom? We actually booked our first USA performance back in 2020 prior to COVID hitting, so it has been a long few years in the making. We have always had an overwhelming amount of people requesting we come to the USA on our social media so we are delighted to finally be opening A Celtic Christmas in the USA. We hope it was worth the wait!
With something for everyone, “A Celtic Christmas” appeals to those with Irish ancestry, past visitors, or anyone who appreciates a good time. Attendees universally love the rich offerings of Irish culture. Beyond the exceptional talent, the show guarantees a night filled with fun and entertainment, leaving audiences with tapping feet and smiling hearts. Embracing the festive spirit, it captures the essence of the most wonderful time of the year, leaving audience members feeling good.
How does “A Celtic Christmas” leave a lasting impression on those who attend, and why might everyone want more after the show?
Thursday, December 7th The Smith Opera House 82 Seneca St. Geneva, NY 14456 Tickets Starting at $43.70
New York Locations Henrietta Plaza 1100 Jefferson Rd. Rochester, NY 14623
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DISNEY ON ICE 2023
Meet Joelle Maria Nasheim, one of the fabulous performers in this year’s Disney On Ice, coming to Rochester, NY December 14-17.
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YOU ARE ENOUGH.
“The fact that we are the reason many people are smiling and having a good time makes my heartbeat faster and gives me the motivation to give my best each and every day.” BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO
Tell us your name, where you are from, and character you play. Hello my name is Joelle Maria Nasheim and I’m from Austria. I am an ensemble skater which means I get the chance to play a lot of different characters in the show. For example, in the Ball scene of Cinderella I am one of the young ladies in a beautiful gown hoping to get seen by the prince who is looking for a bride. Other than that, I am a citizen in Frozen and Manta in Moana.
single show is a unique experience for the audience and has their own special highlights. How do you prepare to bring beloved Disney characters to life on the ice, and what makes it a unique challenge? I watch and analyze Disney movies to get a better understanding of the
What can audiences expect from this year’s Disney on Ice show, and how does it differ from previous performances? Disney On Ice presents Into The Magic uses 6 iconic stories. We have some classic stories like Beauty and the Beast or Cinderella but also some newer characters like Miguel from Coco or Moana. The audience will see Rapunzel and Flynn lift to the sky on an aerial silk and experience special effects like snow with Elsa and Anna from Frozen. These stories are accompanied with songs such as “How Far I’ll Go,” “Be Our Guest” and “Let It Go” and paired with powerful skating choreography. Every show has different stories that connect with audiences in different ways. Also, the costumes, music, characters, special effects and design of the set differs from show to show. Every
costume you wear for each number helps you be in character a lot though. Disney on Ice often features a diverse range of characters. Which character do you find the most fun to portray, and why? I would choose being a citizen from Frozen. It is such a nice setup with the planters, fruit cart and Arendelle in the background. I’m an easygoing and daydreaming citizen just living life day by day in peace. The best part of it is the interaction with the other citizens and with Olaf. He always gives me a warm feeling when I’m around him. The music in Disney on Ice plays a significant role in conveying the magic of Disney. Can you share your favorite musical moment from the show?
story and the characters behavior. I copy the movements and the body language to make it as authentic as possible. As an ensemble skater you vary between lots of different characters which means you need to change your way of skating and acting sometimes within minutes. You always need to be focused and, in the moment, which is sometimes quite challenging. The
There are so many but the first one which comes to my mind is the theme song from Tangled “I See the Light.” Rapunzel and Flynn rise a lantern surrounded by hundreds of lanterns. It’s such a warming scene with a goose bump moment. How do you engage with young fans in the audience during your performances, and what’s the most heartwarming interaction you’ve had with a child? I mostly wave at the kids or send ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: HOLIDAY EDITION 2023 53
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“The fact that we are the reason many people are smiling and having
a good time makes my heartbeat faster and gives me the motivation to give my best each and every day.” them air kisses. But I also try to communicate with my body language so that the audience feel like they are part of the action. Every time I wave back to a kid and see how their eyes light up, I realize that such a little interaction can brighten up someone’s day. 54
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What is the most memorable or rewarding aspect of being part of Disney on Ice, and how has it impacted your career as a performer?
people are smiling and having a good time makes my heartbeat faster and gives me the motivation to give my best each and every day.
Doing what I love every single day and sharing my passion with the audience. The fact that we are the reason many
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FERNWICK ARTISANS Creating natural habitats and living off of and with the land lovingly, creating natural diversity around me.
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YOU ARE ENOUGH.
“My core beliefs are rooted with eco-friendly practices, so of course I was going to ensure my company was also built with that mentality.” BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO
Can you share the story of how Fernwick Artisans got started and where the name “FernWick” came from? I’ve been dreaming for years about how I wanted my life. Homesteading, living a more self-sufficient lifestyle out in the middle of nowhere. Creating natural habitats and living off of and with the land lovingly, creating natural diversity around me. Wanting this life, I took on some hobbies and learned some life skills and was practicing all these things like growing food, beekeeping, upcycling, making all kinds of homemade care products, of course, a lot of beeswax products (especially the honey), cooking and baking from scratch, fermenting, foraging, infusing, using aromatherapy, woodworking and general crafty things like that. But mostly I love plants. Growing, caring for and living with plants brings me great peace and a happy presence. I wanted to sell plants most of all because I could grow them so abundantly. I will be adding that element to my business very soon. Furthermore, I have a liking for ferns in particular. And I kept dreaming of this shop that provided beloved things and was also a great community space. I had decided to finally start making things to sell and worked up some ideas for my business. Fernwick was a name I came up with to honor the love of plants and candle making within me. I had decided to call my business Fernwick Artisans and I didn’t really know yet what I was going to produce exactly except some candles, some macramé plant hangers and some lip balm, probably. Then, as it does, a lot of life happened, I became pregnant, and then I became sick, and then I became
a mother sooner than I expected. After facing plenty of hard things since I first thought up the company in 2021, I’ve worked really hard to come back to this dream, to have something to heal me and something else to focus on, and honestly, I’m not in a place where I could see myself doing anything else from here on out What types of items do you sell and create at Fernwick Artisans? I sell anything that brings me joy to make. Mostly that is hand poured natural beeswax candles that for the most part I make the silicone molds for myself. I use things like Crystal glasses, fun bottles, all kinds of things to make unique and gorgeous candles. I’ve even used my basement door knob to create a floating candle. Not only that, but I also make macramé keychains and plant hangers, essential oil blends, I grow and sell plants and clay plant pots my mother makes. I turned a lot of my hobbies and passions into what you see with Fernwick Artisans’ offerings. What sets your handcrafted products apart from others in the market? Because of my processes and abilities, I’ve created products you literally can’t find anywhere else at this time. If you like my Pumpkin candles, then I can show you the actual pumpkins I grew from seed and used to make each of those candles. The vintage crystal vases my mother has collected over the years, her crystal salt pinch bowls, her glass ornament, I’ve used all these cool old things my family loves into stunning candles. But the story behind each thing, I think, is what sets it all apart
and makes it stand out. Starting in the summer of 2021 during the pandemic must have been challenging. Can you tell us about your journey and some of the hurdles you faced? I, like countless people, lost a lot in 2020. I had found myself leaving the barbering industry where I had thrived and was wildly successful with. But it didn’t bring me joy, and I simply didn’t feel safe returning to that work after everything my family faced at that time. I found myself beekeeping for Rainy Day Bees and though I didn’t make nearly as much, it made me happier. I started candle making for them and though I wasn’t really great at it, I loved doing it. I could see myself living differently and letting the things I loved doing, like making my own home care products with ingredients I grew and gardening and writing lead me. If it didn’t feel good to do I wasn’t going to do it. Then I got pregnant and while initially, I didn’t think I would or could follow through with motherhood, I realized I wanted my son more than anything else, there was. I ended up getting very sick with Hyperemesis Gravidarium which is morning sickness x1000. I lost 15% of my body weight within 2 months of getting pregnant. Not only that, but I was hospitalized 2nd for dehydration and starvation. While pregnant. While moving across the country from Seattle, WA to my hometown of Rochester, NY. So much happened that year. And then my son came 10 weeks early, it was terrifying. We got so lucky, but I was diagnosed with Covid before I even got to hold my son, and we had to spend ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: HOLIDAY EDITION 2023 63
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YOU ARE ENOUGH.
“I sell anything that brings me joy to make. Mostly that is hand poured natural beeswax candles that for the most part I make the silicone molds for myself.” BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO
our first 2 weeks together essentially on video chat. I cannot even begin to describe what that was like, but I can say I am still struggling with that experience daily. I have had a lot of help to get to a place of feeling better through the trauma, postpartum depression and the insurmountable losses we also had in a very short time since then. Through therapy and a lot of radical acceptance of my situation and the abundant love and happiness I have felt being my son’s mother, I have had some fog clear. Then one day I was ready to get back to making my dream for this business a reality! How did the idea for Fernwick Artisans come about, and what inspired you to turn it into a reality? I was always a jack of all trades and admittedly kind of master of all. That may sound cocky, but I just have such an extreme and harsh judgment of myself that I strive for consistent perfection. So whatever I took on I usually did really well, besides beekeeping and candle making, but I still loved it. I had long dreamed of having an apothecary type shop with a community of like-minded nature weirdos who also loved what I loved. And now I’d love to make my dream a reality, not just for me, but I can see it being a good life for and with my son. Could you highlight some of the most popular or unique products you offer? Honestly, I tried to have such a diverse range of things that I sell a good amount of everything. People are actually quite taken with The Luxe Skull Candles, The Baby Snakes Candles, which was 66
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surprising but also satisfying and since I’ve just released them The Conifer Tree Candles are a big hit.
has been a point of reference for me from the inception of the products, and we work well together.
What’s the creative process like when designing your artisan gifts? I am always making something new and I’m constantly looking for the next thing to make. With candles, it’s a lot of fun because I just look at something and think “that’d make a cool candle” and then figure out how to do exactly that. I make many mistakes, but I record everything, and then it’s onto testing everything, which ensures safety, consistency and provides necessary data for how we develop our future products.
Do you use any specific materials or techniques that make your items distinctive? I only use all natural beeswax to make my candles and other products, it’s expensive but other than that it’s the best wax available for your health and for the environment. And I do cast a lot of my own silicone candle molds out of vintage glassware.
Can you tell us about the artisans behind the scenes who create these lovely handmade products? Right now, it’s just me creating everything. I do have my lovely friend Mina Kessler doing all the photography for the most part and have also already onboarded my cousin who is now my organizational manager. We have a bartering system at present that works out well for the both of us and allows us each to work on what we enjoy in an environment we are both comfortable with. Something that is good for both of us heady anxious women. I can work on creating things that make me happy, and she can work on describing, cataloging, and organizing the products. She will handle the extensive research that needs to happen and most of all, she is the exact type of person who loves my stuff and wants to buy it all. So having a direct line of insight in the mid-20s elevated, educated, witchy and wise woman who will bounce ideas around with me is also invaluable. She
How important is sustainability and eco-friendliness in your production process? My core beliefs are rooted with ecofriendly practices, so of course I was going to ensure my company was also built with that mentality. All my packaging is compostable or recyclable, beeswax is the most sustainable wax on the market, and I will be offering product refills on certain things as well as a wax recycling program. I will say in the first 2 months of business I can see where I want to be better and how to grow further in the direction of sustainability, the silicone mold making process is one that I have not mastered doing sustainably yet. Are there any upcoming collections or products you’re particularly excited about? I have just released The Fan Flare Collection which will look stunning with any festive table or decorated mantle. All these candles are made from vintage glass things and I couldn’t be more proud of these stunning beeswax candles. I already have planned my
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{ SPECIAL HOLIDAY SPOTLIGHT }
YOU ARE ENOUGH.
“Growing, caring for and living with plants brings me great peace and a happy presence.”
BY NICOLE HEROUX WILLIAMS I PHOTOS BY NSP STUDIO
spring collection and started on my summer collection. What has been the most rewarding aspect of running Fernwick Artisans so far? The amazingly positive response to what I’m doing, people seem genuinely impressed, intrigued and happy with my makings. The fact that I’m enjoying what I’m doing because I just love crafting my days away is why I’m doing all of this. So it is extra rewarding to be resonating with so many folks. Where can people find your creations and products? Do you have a physical store in Rochester, New York?
Fernwick Artisans is currently being run from my darling parent’s basement, they have been so kind and patient. Bless them. So no brick and mortar store or official crafting space. It is in the plans though! For now I do local pickup and delivery, I also have some shipping options on FernwickArtisans.com, you can also find me at The Artisan Cove in the Piano Works Mall in East Rochester. I am doing a variety of markets and I’m booked up through December, you can check out the events page on my website. Are there any local events or markets where customers can see your products in person? My next event is The Wine, Women
and Shopping Event and at the Annual Holiday Market in December and I will also be at The Yards vending in Holiday Bazaar on the 14th, 16 and 17th. You can also visit the Events Page at www. FernwickArtisans.com How can customers support Fernwick Artisans and stay updated on your latest offerings and news? With the season upon us, consider purchasing one of our gift cards or gift sets which are a great way to cross names off the shopping list. Following @ fernwickartisans and sharing my stuff on social media is great, I’m on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest. Get on the e-mail list at www.FernwickArtisans. ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: HOLIDAY EDITION 2023 69