My name encapsulates who I am. My mother was of Italian descent. Her father came to Island Bay from Stromboli, a small volcanic island off the coast of Sicily. I feel a deep connection with my Italian heritage as I spent a lot of time with my grandparents as a child, although I was born and grew up in the Wairarapa. The Strombolana blood in my veins is matched by a deep connection with Aotearoa. My husband is Maori –Ngati Kahungunu Ki Wairarapa and Rangitane Ki Wairarapa. Our three sons, eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren are lucky to have grown up exposed to two rich cultures. I now live in Petone.
I started making necklaces about eighteen years ago, initially working with paua and mussel shell. My first efforts were as gifts for family and friends, but their enthusiastic feedback encouraged me to start selling. These days I mostly work with glass, pearls, and semi-precious stones, combined with silver. Glass is my preferred medium and I particularly like the bright colours; of the stones, quartz and florite are probably my favourites, as they go with everything.
I began selling at local weekend markets, and then in August 2011 I opened a small shop called La Galleria di Stromboli, in an old boatshed on the Wellington waterfront at Frank Kitts Park. I have a million-dollar view of one of the most beautiful harbours in the world, and feel lucky to be able to meet people from all walks of life, from all parts of New Zealand and the world.
I find it very rewarding to see customers thrilled with their choice of necklace, and never fail to be amazed at how a necklace can enhance an outfit.