After years working in the garment center in Manhattan, Sara Annapolen’s shift into motherhood is what energized her to launch her own label, Sara Joy. During her pregnancies, she felt a heightened sense of creativity; through both of her post-partum experiences, art kept her grounded.
Sara Joy is a vendor at our upcoming Mother’s Day Market, open in the HudCo Atrium from Wednesday, May 5, through Friday, May 7, each day from 9am to 6pm. We spoke with Sara about her line of accessories and what she does for fun with her kids.
Your accessories are created with the intention to spark joy. Where do you turn for inspiration when designing a new collection? What methods do you use for making your prints?
I am always inspired by nature, and in unexpected places. Being home and forced to slow down this past year, I have seen beauty in the sunrise and have practiced focusing on silver linings. I love celebrating small moments and translating them into multicolor rainbow art. I use mixed media, including high pigment dyes, markers, and woven paper projects, to create my prints. I also have one vintage dress that was my grandmother’s that inspired one print my collection.
As your babies start to grow up, what’s your favorite art-related activity to do with them?
I love markers! Minimal dry time is key because my kids are still young. We do so much coloring around here—Crayola washables are the best. I also love Play-Doh, and the occasional finger painting with neon and glitter paints. I’ve learned to embrace the mess!
Your collection has us ready for a day at the pool! What are your favorite brands to pair with your accessories?
My new favorite look is my magenta Eberjay high waisted bikini, Le Specs olive colored sunglasses, and Hat Attack hat. I also have some great seed bead chokers by Westchester brand 100 Percent Beads, and any jewelry by Brinker & Eliza is an obsession!
Joy + Justice by Sara Joy was created to make a joyful difference in the lives of women. Can you highlight organizations that your brand supports?
For the months of April, May, and June, a portion of proceeds of my Exhale Flower Collection will be donated to In Kind Boxes. In Kind is a nonprofit organization based out of Portland, Oregon. They curate beautiful all-natural post-partum gift boxes, and for every box purchased, one is donated. Sara Joy has also donated to Black Mamas Matter, Helping Mamas in Atlanta, and Bundles of Joy in Westchester.
Your wraps are designed for multi-purpose wear! How are you currently styling your wraps?
There are endless ways to style your Sara Joy pieces! In Miami I recently was into wearing two scarves as a top and a sarong as a maxi skirt for a whole look. Up at home for spring, the sarong makes a beautiful wrap for outdoor dining with white jeans and a tank top. And if it gets chilly, wear your sarong as a scarf with a denim jacket for a really cute look.
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