Dreamcatcher Designs
This week I caught up with Jessi Deakin the creator behind Dreamcatcher Designs. A fellow recent graduate from the International School of Colour and Design (ISCD), not only is she a macrame master but a talent Interior Stylist as well.
Jessi has turned her hobby of making macrame homewares into a thriving business and has graced the pages of some of the leading Interiors Magazines. Her relaxed boho vibe is contagious and her decorating style is simply amazing.
I think this is just the beginning for Jessi and Dreamcatcher Designs so read on below to find out how it all started...
Tell us a little about yourself, background and family?
I was born and bred in Southern Sydney and have spent all of my life there except for 2 years where I lived in the Eastern Suburbs with my partner, Adam. We are now back living in Southern Sydney renting a beautiful sun-drenched house on the Georges River and are preparing to buy our first home here. My parents live 5 minutes down the road in the house I was born in and I see them almost every day. I have actually employed my mum to help me with my macramé orders when things get a little hectic! She is a gun at it and actually taught me most of what I know!
What was the motivation to create Dreamcatcher Designs?
I came up with the concept for Dreamcatcher Designs whilst I was studying Interior Styling at ISCD. I was pretty over working a typical office desk job and wanted a healthier lifestyle where I was up away from the computer for a decent portion of my day and using my brain more creatively. I initially intended for the business to be purely an Interior Styling company but it unexpectedly evolved quite differently for me. I began making macramé plant hangers and wall hangings as a hobby and people were showing a lot of interest in purchasing them from me so I set up an Etsy store and it all rolled out organically from there!
What do you enjoy the most about running Dreamcatcher Designs? Any challenges you have had to overcome?
I love that I am creating something with my hands that people want to buy and showcase in their homes – it’s very rewarding! I also love the freedom that comes with working for yourself – naturally! As for the challenges… there have been many and they are constantly changing as my business grows. Everything from sourcing consistent and quality materials through to business negotiations – it’s all a learning curve and definitely character building!
Where does the inspiration come from for your designs?
I find a lot of inspiration from nature – specifically colours and textures. I also draw inspiration from the fashion and interiors industry in terms of trends to ensure my products stay relevant despite the retro origins of macramé!
Have you always been creative?
I have been into arts and crafts since childhood and have been quite musical my whole life too. My favourite subjects at school were drama and music and even since school I have always worked in creative industries like fashion and interiors.
What is a typical day like running Dreamcatcher Designs?
It’s busy but relaxed – if that makes sense!? There are always orders to be made, sent, quoted or processed but working from the comfort of your home barefoot with the music turned up makes it all a little more fun!
What advice would you give to those wanting to start their own creative business?
Just do it! (Please don’t sue me, Nike!) I kind of just decided I needed a change, chose my path and threw myself into the deep end and worked it out as I went. It was by no means easy, but it did come together quite organically which helped me stay motivated as all signs were telling me I was heading in the right direction. One thing I will say is to get yourself some work experience with aspirational people and companies - you probably won’t get paid in cash but the experience is priceless! The money will come later.
Where would you like to see Dreamcatcher Designs in the future?
I would like to see some custom works in stores like Anthropologie, Free People and Urban Outfitters! I would also love to go back to basics and nurture the Interior Styling aspect of my business which was my original plan all along!
How would you describe your own personal interior styling style?
Coastal Bohemian with a playful twist
If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be and why?
Morocco for the rugs and textiles!!
Name 2 inspirational people that you admire and why?
Sibella Court – she is a stylist, a designer, an author and a shop owner. She does it all and does it well!
Ricky Gervais – random I know. He is just such an honest and hilarious risk taker and uses his fame and status for the greater good and to spread awareness on important issues. His dangerous sense of humor is something I can definitely relate to (I can often cross the line for the sake of a joke but luckily it gets me a laugh – most of the time).
Just want to say a big thank you Jessi for letting us know a bit more about you and Dreamcatcher Designs. You can follow Jessi's creative journey on Instagram @jessi_dreamcatcher_designs and purchase one of her amazing pieces from her online Etsy shop here.
