Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Alex, owner of Mind of Plenty, and I am a botanical artist. I transform real, homegrown and foraged flowers and foliage into wearable and functional works of art.
Where did your business name come from? Is there an interesting story behind it?
I love this question! In the beginning I spent a long time trying to figure out not only what I wanted my name to be, but also what I wanted my business to be. I had so many ideas and such a passion for creating the thought of narrowing it down to one thing filled me with dread. The fear of restricting myself is exactly what inspired the name: Mind of Plenty, for a creative mind with an abundance of ideas.
What has been your favorite moment since creating your art/business?
My business has expanded quite a bit over the years, leading to exciting new milestones, however, my favorite moments come from the art itself. I’m constantly pushing my creativity, perfecting my craft, and learning new techniques that I can incorporate into my work. There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing an idea in my head come to life through my hands. My favorite feeling in the whole world is launching a new collection and seeing my audience share in the same enthusiasm and excitement I feel for the work I’ve poured my heart into creating. Knowing that something I made with so much love resonates with someone else.
What sets your designs apart from others?
I’m well aware that there are a lot of artists who work with the same medium I do. What I believe sets me apart is my constant drive to expand and progress my craft. I’m always learning new techniques, testing new ideas, and embracing the trial-and-error process, which keeps my work and inventory continually evolving.
I think it’s so important as a creative to stay curious, keep yourself on your toes, and remain open-minded. For me, that means keeping my Notes app jam-packed with random trains of thought, ideas, and little sparks of inspiration that might eventually turn into something tangible. I never want to stop experimenting, because I think some of the most exciting work comes from simply being willing to try something new.
What is the latest thing you have been working on?
I recently launched my “Forest and Fae” collection, a project I had been dreaming about all summer. This collection was inspired by the feeling of escaping into the woods and getting lost among the trees, featuring real ferns, moss, preserved ladybugs, and mushrooms. But I also wanted to capture the more whimsical side of the forest. The feeling of believing in fairies, dancing beneath the moonlight, and finding magic in unexpected places. That side of the collection brought in soft pinks and purples, vibrant blooms, and a sense of playful, otherworldly wonder.
What will you be bringing to the Gift & Art Expo for attendees to purchase?
At my booth you can shop jewelry (bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and rings), Botanical bookmarks (great stocking stuffers and gifts for the book club!), belts and waist chains, and my most popular item: botanical claw clips.
Website: https://mindofplenty.com/
Instagram: @mindofplenty_