My name is Marita… I am a dreamer and this is my story.
Growing up on the beautiful Mediterranean island of Crete, I always dreamed of being an artist. I was so very excited when I was given the chance to go to England to study art but after just a short time in grey and rainy London, my heart started to break. I missed the blue skies, towering mountains, and pristine beaches of my home so much, that I just had to return. Crete is in my blood.
Back in my village, my mother and I renovated and run together my grandfather's kafeneion. I dreamed of a simple life!
Happy and contented now, I met my husband and with great joy we started a family. Our two wonderful boys grew fast and soon we had to think about moving the family closer to schools. So we chose a new location and moved to Palaikastro on the East coast of Crete.
Palaikastro is just 10 minutes from Vai, the one and only natural palm forest in Europe. Nestled among the olive groves, with its crystal clear seas and unspoilt beaches, this traditional town was a perfect place to bring up a family.
With the warm support of the people of the town, I dreamed again of being an artist. I started making art inspired by all of nature around me. I painted and made macrame jewelry. Summer visitors came to my shop and bought my work and soon I had orders from around the world. I started working with local craftsmen to make silver jewelry, some with semi-precious stones, some with enamel, in all sorts of styles, expanding my horizons and offering something for everyone. Now all of this is available here online.
If you would like to come and enjoy my incredible corner of paradise, visit my shop and get to know my community, you are very welcome. Contact me here for guidance.
I believe it is always important to give back to the community if you can, so I offer you the chance to donate to the charity, Smile of a Child, by buying from the charity collection.
Oh, and I give you my best advice, never give up on your dream