Stephanie’s winning design, “Hanami,” beautifully captures the essence of her love for cherry blossoms, orsakura, and stands as a testament to her artistic vision.
Stephanie's affinity for flowers, particularly cherry blossoms, blossomed during her visits to Japan in 2014 and 2018. Enchanted by the famous sakura, she found herself deeply inspired by the delicate beauty of these blossoms and the profound cultural significance they hold in Japan. It was this fascination that guided her in creating her first entry for the People’s Bead competition, where she sought to encapsulate her favourite flower in a bead design.
Stephanie's winning bead, “Hanami,” named after the Japanese tradition of flower viewing, is a captivating representation of life’s cyclical nature. The design features intertwined rings, symbolising the continuous cycle of life and the seasons. Scattered sakura blossoms adorn one of the rings, serving as a delicate reminder of spring’s arrival and the renewal it brings.
Despite her self-professed lack of drawing skills, Stéphanie was determined to bring her vision to life. “It was very hard for me to design this bead because my drawing skills are just so bad, but I wanted to give it a try and apparently, I was right to do it!” she shares with a smile. Her perseverance and passion have indeed paid off, resulting in a bead that captures the hearts of many.
Outside of her creative endeavours, Stéphanie is an accountant living with her husband and their little daughter. She began her journey with Trollbeads four years ago, initially drawn to the enchanting Kimono Kit, which remains her favourite. In her free time, she enjoys simple pleasures such as playing with beads and taking leisurely walks with her family, revelling in the beauty of nature.
Stephanie’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of following one's passion and the joy of finding inspiration in the simple, everyday moments of life. Her winning design, “Hanami,” not only embodies her personal journey and love for sakura but also adds a new chapter to the rich and diverse narrative of Trollbeads. We are honoured to celebrate her creativity and dedication, and we look forward to seeing the many ways in which her bead will inspire others in our community.
STEPHANIE HU