About Me

 

Hi there!

Thank you for being here. I’m Michelle (she/her), a self-taught jewelry designer based in Renton, on the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish and Duwamish people. In 2015, I founded Live Inspired Jewelry, and since then, creating jewelry has become my passion and my purpose.

Growing up in Hawaii, visiting my native homeland in the Philippines, and studying abroad in places like Tahiti, Fiji, and Samoa, all deeply connected me to the Pacific. This bond is reflected in the materials I use, which remind me of the islands I hold dear. Crafting jewelry keeps me grounded—it's not just what I do, it’s a part of who I am.

In 2018, I learned that my ancestors were jewelry makers from Bantay, Ilocos Sur. When I visited the Philippines, my grandpa’s sister shared this family history with me as I made her a pair of earrings. She told me that our relatives were known as Plateros—traveling artisans who crafted and traded jewelry for rice and other goods. This discovery was deeply emotional for me, as it gave me a deeper understanding of my why and how in creating.

I’m honored to share with you unique, handmade pieces inspired by the land, sea, and sky. My designs incorporate elements like wood, shells, natural fibers, and genuine pearls, set mostly in 14k gold-filled and sterling silver. I hope that by wearing Live Inspired Jewelry, you’ll carry a piece of the island spirit with you, no matter where life takes you.

When I’m not designing, I'm spending time with my family probobly watching my son's basketball games on the weekends or catching up with my cousins. I also have a sweet tooth so I’m always on the lookout for the best local dessert spots! If you know of any, feel free to share—I’m all ears. :)

-Michelle