Parisa is the owner and designer of Standout Boutique: a stylish and unique jewelry brand on a mission to make you stand out! Each piece is handcrafted and designed in Vancouver, BC, using semi-precious gemstones, pearls and a variety of high-quality metals. She's been a Giving Gifts artist for 7 years!
Where does your passion for your art come from, Parisa?
Inspiration to create can come from anywhere: places and feelings. My passion for Standout Boutique came from travelling and living in the Middle-East, Latin America and North America. Every culture has its own definition of beauty.
What is the story behind why you started your business?
I’ve been making jewelry for myself as a hobby for a long time. My day job is working in high tech for the past 15 years, selling enterprise software. It's challenging and rewarding, but I wanted to do something with my hands where I could see the results right away. That’s why, in 2012, I decided to turn my jewelry making hobby into a business. It’s been an amazing journey creating something from scratch, learning new things and meeting incredible people.
I’ve been making jewelry for myself as a hobby for a long time. My day job is working in high tech for the past 15 years, selling enterprise software. It's challenging and rewarding, but I wanted to do something with my hands where I could see the results right away. That’s why, in 2012, I decided to turn my jewelry making hobby into a business. It’s been an amazing journey creating something from scratch, learning new things and meeting incredible people.
How has your art shaped how you view the world?
I have a better appreciation for everything—especially, if it’s handmade. And, I look at opportunity with a different perspective: If you are passionate enough to do something, you can do it and excel at it!
How do you define success as an artist?
For me, the definition of success is that I have fully utilized all my capabilities: patience, discipline, passion, and persistence. It's important that both my artistic and business goals are met.
What advice would you give to an aspiring artist?
Be curious, passionate and find focus! There are so many different types of art and you won't know what you love until you actually try it.
What do you love about being a Giving Gifts artist?
Being part of an artistic community is a unique experience. Giving Gifts has created a space for artists to share and feel proud of their work. I love being part of a community where you can express yourself through what you do!
What is the most meaningful gift you've ever received?
A picture frame with 12 photos of my son for every month before he turned one.
What do you want people to feel when they receive a piece of your art as a gift?
I want my art to evoke a sense of beauty, happiness and uniqueness.
Growing up, what was your dream job?
My childhood dream job was to be an architect; I've always aspired to make things from scratch.
How do you take time for yourself?
Doing yoga, writing in my journals or listening to my favourite music.
Doing yoga, writing in my journals or listening to my favourite music.
What mantra do you tell yourself when facing a challenge?
"I have what I need to get through this."
What in your life are you most grateful for?
My family and our health.
Thank you, Parisa! Browse Parisa's unique pieces here.
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