We’re excited to introduce Laurika Wheeler-Nel to our Design Team.
Please, could you briefly introduce yourself?
Hi, My name is Laurika Wheeler-Nel. I am married with the love of my life, Louis Nel. We are blessed with two beautiful daughters, who is now 8 and 12. I fell in love with scrapbooking in 2005. I was totally, head over heels, hooked and in love! I just love pretty paper – I can never have enough. My biggest dream was to have my own shop and it became a reality in 2011. I have a little scrapbooking shop in the heart of the Free State, Parys. This hobby is my absolute passion in life. I love planning pages, teaching classes, planning little events for my loyal customers who became friends. The projects, the stories, the people, the magic and everything in between is the highlight of everyday. My shop and my BIG studio table is my happy place, because it’s where all the magic happens.
Do you have a specific process to get the juices flowing or does it come naturally?
The “process” is different every time. Inspiration for me comes from anything that catches my eye. Sometimes a photo will spark the idea, sometimes an idea keeps me awake and I would burn the midnight oil before it slips my mind. Most of the time the paper will guide me (because I love pretty paper so much).
What role does the artist or creative have in society?
In these crazy times, I think it is to be a place of escape, being an inspiration to others, find some sanity, and most of all, to be able to share your creativity.
If you could change one perception in this world, what would that be?
People think if you don’t have money, you are poor, but the most valuable things in life can’t be bought with money. Things like a truly happy family, unconditional love, time, friendship, passion and happiness, just to name a few.
What’s your strongest positive childhood memory?
My Parents were always there for me, no matter what. They encouraged me to be whatever I wanted to be. I want to be that for my children too.
If you were an artwork, which one would it be?
I would be The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh. I am forever staring at the stars and the moon. I love, love, love watching a full moon rise.
Describe a real-life situation that inspired you?
My mother is my biggest inspiration in life. My father died when my sisters and I were teenagers. It was a very difficult time for us, but nothing was ever too much for her. Everything I am, is because she is my Mom.
What’s your most embarrassing moment?
So meeting the In-laws for the first time is a big deal. Everyone was super friendly and welcoming. The table was set with the best dine ware, on this gorgeous Heirloom Lace tablecloth – they went all out. Everything was going great until we sat down to eat. I knocked my glass of red wine over as I was dishing up some beetroot. Both landed on that beautiful, white lace cloth. Eeeeck!!!…If the earth could swallow me now… I was beyond embarrassed. I still get teased about it to this day!
If you were a shoe, what kind of shoe would you be?
I would probably say I am a Sneaker, because they are easy and comfortable.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
To always be proud of how hard you are trying.
What are you doing when you’re not creating? What (other) hobbies do you have?
I love gardening, and I crochet. I also love painting and revamping old furniture, or 2nd hand finds (or treasures as I like to call it).
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I am a qualified White-water River Rafting Guide.
What is your favourite:
Colour: Pink
Animal: A Dolphin
Season: Spring
Movie: Ghost starring Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze
Book: Me before You by Jojo Moyes
Laurika’s Social Media
We can’t wait to see Laurika’s creations! Watch this space for more of her inspiration…
