Today we’d like to introduce you to Ozge Adak
Ozge, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi, Ozge here! I’d love to share a bit about my journey. I create handmade wood bead garlands and clay home decor. My passion for creativity has always driven me — I love taking raw materials and transforming them into something beautiful. Whether it’s coming up with a design idea or simply winging it and seeing where it goes, it’s always exciting to create.
Before all of this, I worked as a psychology teacher in my home country, which, in a way, was a form of crafting too. It was about taking what you have and making it better by bringing everything together thoughtfully. Little did I know, this experience would lay the groundwork for my future creative endeavors.
After moving to a new country, I couldn’t work because I had to focus on raising my children — juggling school activities and managing the home kept me busy. But as time went on, I turned to my hobby as a form of therapy. I started making pieces just for fun, and over time, I realized I could share my creations with others. That’s when I decided to open an online shop.
Today, I’m thrilled to have turned my passion into a real business. What makes it even more rewarding is that I’m able to donate to charities through my work, which motivates me to push forward every day. It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m so proud of how far I’ve come!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but each challenge has taught me something valuable. When I first started, balancing my creative passion with family responsibilities was tough. I was focused on taking care of my kids and the household, so finding time for my hobby felt like a luxury. But slowly, I carved out time for myself, making sure that my creativity didn’t take a back seat.
Another struggle was figuring out the business side of things. Setting up an online shop, marketing my products, and learning how to handle logistics were all things I hadn’t anticipated. I had to teach myself about pricing, shipping, and how to effectively reach customers. There were definitely moments of frustration and self-doubt, especially in the beginning, but over time, I gained confidence and started to see progress.
Despite these struggles, the journey has been rewarding. Each obstacle has helped me grow, and now I’m at a place where I feel more confident in both my creative and business abilities. And knowing I can give back through charity work makes it all worthwhile!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Thank you for asking! I specialize in creating handmade wood bead garlands and clay home decor, with a focus on unique, customizable designs that bring warmth and personality to any space. Each piece I create is crafted with love and attention to detail, blending rustic charm with a touch of elegance. I work with natural materials like wood, clay, and sometimes fabric, which allows me to create versatile, one-of-a-kind items that can be tailored to any home style or occasion.
What sets me apart is my ability to combine creativity with practicality. I’m not just about making things look beautiful; I want my creations to be functional as well. For example, my bead garlands are designed to be both stylish and adaptable, whether they’re used to decorate a mantelpiece, adorn a vase, or even used as part of a special event or holiday decoration. The personalization aspect is something I’m really passionate about — I love working with customers to bring their visions to life, whether it’s choosing colors that match their home or creating a custom design for a special gift.
I’m most proud of the positive impact my work has had. Not only am I able to pursue my passion, but I’m also able to donate a portion of my earnings to charities. Giving back is an essential part of what I do, and it motivates me every day. Additionally, I’ve built a small but loyal community of customers who appreciate the personal touch and care I put into each piece, and that means the world to me.
What truly sets me apart is my approach to crafting — it’s not just about making products; it’s about creating experiences. Every item I make tells a story, whether it’s through the materials I use or the thoughtful design process that goes into it. My customers don’t just buy decor; they invest in something that has a piece of me in it. That’s what I believe makes my work special.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
For me Columbia is such a charming city with a lot to offer! I like best about Columbia is the mix of Southern hospitality, the rich history, and the growing arts scene. The Riverbanks Zoo and Garden are beautiful and make for a lovely day out, while places like the South Carolina State House and the historic district provide a glimpse into the city’s past. Columbia also has a great food scene, with local spots like the Soda City Market showcasing regional flavors and a friendly, community-oriented vibe. The proximity to nature, with nearby lakes and parks, offers a nice balance of urban and outdoor activities.
On the other hand, I like least about Columbia is the traffic congestion, especially during rush hours, which can make getting around a bit challenging. The summer heat and humidity can also be a lot to handle for some, though it’s typical for the region. Additionally, while Columbia is growing, it may not have the same bustling cultural scene or nightlife options that larger cities offer, which can be a downside for those used to a more fast-paced lifestyle.
Overall, I though, Columbia offers a great sense of community and a slower pace that many find charming and welcoming.
Pricing:
- Small garlands: $15- $45, depending on length and design.
- Clay trays and decors: $5 – $25 per item.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fulloflovegiftshop.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fulloflovegiftshop
