Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia Hoff.
Alicia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up on a dairy farm! I was enrolled in my local 4H group where I showed dairy cattle and livestock. In 4H you can submit arts, crafts, photography, baked goods, and more into the local county fairs contests! This is where my origin of sewing begins, where my two older sisters and I each sewed a pair of pajama pants with the help of my grandmother. She was a home ec. teacher and taught me all the basics. In high school I enlisted at the Carroll County Career and Tech Center (CCCTC) for their Fashion and Textiles Class. After high school, Covid happened and my life flipped upside down, I did not have much direction. I moved to San Diego, California and that’s where the kindling love of sewing bloomed once more, where I began thrift flipping and upcycling clothes I already had. I moved back to Maryland after only a year and this is when my business, Tsukihime Creations was born <3
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Absolutely not! Progress is not always linear. When I first had the idea of starting my own business, I broke my foot and could not sew. This helped me find time and inspiration – but I couldn’t act on it! A few months later when I could finally sew again, I was so frustrated with my designs and techniques. I felt like all I could do was mess up. This still happens today, but I’ve never let it stop me! I have also experienced so much loss and grief, as two people special to me and my family have passed in this last year. This has been the most difficult challenge, trying to persevere through the overwhelming sadness. Creating during those times is horrible but also beautiful.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
One of my favorite questions! I handmake and upcycle one-of-one whimsical, girly clothing and accessories. I love fun colors, patterns, and textures, and anything with bows, charms, lace and frill. I am very proud of my ability to imagine. Going to thrift stores, looking at a curtain or tablecloth and thinking “wow, this would look incredible as a skirt!” I love being able to take something and give it new life.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
For me, goal setting is a very important way of holding yourself accountable with your dreams. HOWEVER, you must be flexible with yourself. There are so many uncontrollable moments in life, many factors that go into our capacity of time and energy. Sometimes we have to switch our expectations because life happens. As long as you can honestly say you tried your best, THAT is the most important thing. Time doesn’t stop for anyone, live your life and follow your heart to the fullest of your ability <3
Pricing:
- Accessories: $5-$40
- Most tops: $50-$100
- Most bottoms: $60-$110
- Most dresses: $50-$100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.depop.com/tsukihimecreations/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tsukihime.creations
