Meet the Makers: Kzen of Aeternum Flower Beads

A beaded bouquet for your wedding keepsake, handcrafted by Kzen.

What do you make? How did you get into it?
I make handmade flower beads. I import the petals and stitch them using nylon to create different designs of flowers. The rest of the materials that I use such as the green beads, teardrops and buds are bought here in the Philippines. The Lucite petals were shown to me by my Aunt who is from Germany and asked me to try making something out of it. And I did! It was a hobby for the first weeks, but due to its cost, I decided to turn it into a small business. I like flowers, and I would like to have some flowering plants in our garden, sadly I am allergic to their pollen. Having Aeternum, is like having a garden full of flowers. The best thing about it, it does not wither! 😀

Are you a full-time crafter? If not, what is your day job?
If being a full-time mom is considered a day job, then it is my day job. Hehe. I am a full-time mom, a full-time wife and a full-time crafter.

Meet Kzen, the heart and the hands behind Aeternum Flower Beads.  Photo from the bazaarwhisperer provided by Kzen.

If you’re a full-time crafter, what made you take the leap and pursue your craft?
It has been our prayer to have a business that will not take my time away from my child. My husband and I both want me to focus taking care and teaching our child. And so, when I proposed this to him as our business, he gave his consent. After 2 months, I was able to return the capital. It’s also helping the family to pay the bills. Plus, the fact that our product is unique and “worth-your-money” kind of product, who wouldn’t take the risk?

These blooms await you at this month’s Maker’s Market at Estancia!

What motivates you in pursuing this business?
As a mom, my family comes first. I want to see my child and husband full, wearing neat and clean clothes and have all their needs and some wants. My husband salary is enough for us but we want more investments and more businesses. We always believe that with the right skills and right strategies, having a business is better than being an employee. You don’t always need to know everything there is to know to run a business; you can pay someone to do it for you- your employee. And I do believe Aeternum is one of God’s answer to our prayers.

What are some of the challenges of maintaining a craft business?
My recent challenge, which I know all crafters know and are careful about, is having a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. I am the only crafter, and meeting demands plus deadlines took tis toll on me. I was diagnosed with CTS last June which prompted me to halt joining bazaars. I just had to finish Maker’s Market last June 28. But result of my therapy is good (thank God), plus I’m drinking my maintenance, that is why I’m back!

Aeternum is Latin for eternal, which makes for a good fit with weddings when you think about it.

What’s a new skill–craft or business–that you’d like to learn?
I want to learn how to arrange flowers and wrap flowers like a pro. I was put into test when I started having brides as customers. 😀 Badly need that!

What’s your most recent craft business milestone?
My most recent milestone is making bouquet for wedding. This year, God granted me 3 bride clients. I’m thrilled whenever I see their reactions after delivering some of their flowers.

What is your favorite lesson in your experience of your business?
Customer is always right, but never hesitate to tell them your side 😀

What craft business advice can you share with other aspiring entrepreneurs?
Be confident but never arrogant. Be friendly and open. Other crafters are your friends, too. Listen to their advice. Be free. Creativity is intelligence having fun. Lastly, don’t compromise quality. It’s always best to give our best.

Kzen’s blooms make for unique centerpieces and entourage blooms too.

Um, if you were a craft tool, what would you be? And why?
I’d be nylon [string]. Because, nylon puts together different materials and help create a beautiful piece. Sometimes, we cannot see the nylon in the finish product but it is there, strongly holding every piece together. Subtle. Tough.

What can we expect to see from you guys at the upcoming Maker’s Market?
More presence. New products. Fresh aura. Colorful ambience.☺

Where else can we find your work?
At Green Central Park every Saturday and at Spectrum, Ground floor of Commerce Center Filinvest Alabang.
Facebook www.facebook.com/aeternumflowerbeads Instagram @aeternumflowerbeads

See you at the Maker’s Market at the end of the month!