We had the good fortune of connecting with Maryann Erickson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maryann, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Like many people my business started out as a hobby. My mother was an award winning quilter and when my husband and I sold our business, I wanted to do something creative but didn’t want to quilt and compete with my mother. She gave me a book on making jewelry and it was love at first sight. I began by teaching myself with wire and after I felt comfortable with that I learned to work with sterling silver, copper, brass and gold. Now I am in my studio everyday. I love making and selling jewelry. And even though my mom passed many years ago, I still feel close to her because I use the chair she had for quilting everyday in my studio.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Simple, elegant jewelry. That is my tag line and it really tells you a lot about my jewelry. All of my pieces are very simple and light weight. I personally don’t like heavy jewelry so I don’t make any! My customers are always telling me “oh your earrings are so light” or “heavy earrings hurt my ears, that’s why I like yours.” My style is simple and all of my pieces have an uncluttered look that I feel is very elegant. Jewelry should go with everything and still look great. That takes a simple piece and that is where I fit in.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The very first place I would take them is to the Musical Instrument Museum. I love that place. It is so unique! Leave plenty of time to see everything. The next place would be to a casino. We have so many nice ones but my favorite is Ak-Chin Casiono in Maricopa and I absolutely love the slots. After that we would need a little rest and relaxation so I would go to Civana Wellness & Resort Spa. They truly have mind and body relaxation and wellness down to an art. When it comes to food, I would stay closer to home. One of my favorite restaurants is Vincitorio’s Italian Restaurant in Tempe. Everything is fresh and made right there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom. She was always very creative and encouraged me to be creative as well. But, I can’t leave out my family. They encourage and support me in all aspects of my jewelry. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their support.

Website: silversaguarostudios.com

Instagram: Silver Saguaro Studios

Facebook: Silver Saguaro Studios

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