Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Broekman.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is Julie Broekman and I am an artist/designer/maker from Livonia, MI. I work to bring my love of nature, color, and storytelling to everything I create. I attended the College for Creative Studies in Detroit for college, studying interior design. During this time I also dabbled in many artistic mediums. By day, I am an automotive color and material designer. By night, I craft one-of-a-kind jewelry for Fisherfolk Handmade along with a curation of vintage craft supplies, jewelry and home decor. Each jewelry piece, intended to be a cherished heirloom. Bursting with color and texture, it celebrates individuality while honoring my family. Inspired by my late grandmother, I try to create work that captures a sense of nostalgia and whimsy.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road is never smooth. I’ve experimented in a lot of mediums, some I loved and others that were a real struggle. Marketing and social media can be the hardest part of the job. Being a maker is a blessing because you keep your hands busy, but sometimes feels like you are shouting into the void! Navigating the depths of social media and bringing your art to the right audience can be very challenging. I appreciate every friend and family member of mine that helps share my business through word of mouth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I spent many years making jewelry with purchased brass parts in multiples, and growing a wholesale business some wonderufl retail partners. Over time though, that wasn’t filling my cup creatively. I made the really hard decision in 2023 to close down my brand Fate & Coincidence. After a year of rest I decided to develop a new brand that felt more truer to this moment in my life. I wanted pieces I could spend more time on, and higher quality materials that would last. I shifted from brass to sterling silver and gold fill, to semi-precious stones and vintage jewelry pieces I could repurpose into something new. I would say my main craft I’ve leaned into is beadweaving, working large and small scale. This is the art of beading similar to a loom but freehand with nylon string and Japanese glass beads. It is tedious and requires massive patience, but I find it really meditative. I love what I do and I hope every piece makes you smile. I want the wearer to really feel like they are having fun and not taking themselves too seriously.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Be patient! It took me almost 10 years to build my first brand till it was steady, and now I’m starting over! But ask for help. Never be afraid to reach out to friends or other people doing what you want to do. Be kind and respectful, you’ll learn many are willing to help. Taking your time to source materials and items from people and businesses you believe in matters too. Sustainability is a huge part of my business, I wanna upcycle anything I can and make sure my packaging is low on plastic and reusable. Finding the right quality sources takes a significant amount of time but is totally worth it.
Pricing:
- $50-$250 earrings
- $50-75 bracelets
- $70-$400 necklaces
- $8-$120 vintage items
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/FisherfolkHandmade
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fisherfolk.handmade/?hl=en
