Rumble: When did you first begin making ornaments? 

Megan: I’ve been making ornaments for about five years. It started as something I did for my family as sentimental Christmas gifts, then I started selling my ornaments around 2 years ago. 

Rumble: Do you create other types of art? 

Megan: I’ve been looking into other types of art to sell after this Christmas season. I’ve thought that personalized coasters may be a good start. I’ve also dabbled into epoxy and may attempt more art with that. For a friend of mine, I created a memorial dog bowl using his food bowl, his paw print from that day, his collar, a lower layer of glitter, and then filled it with clear epoxy. It turned out beautiful. 

Rumble: What makes your work unique? 

Megan: My work is unique because you can send me a picture or description and I can attempt to free-hand anything you want. I will be honest if something is too hard to paint and we can find a compromise. 

Rumble: How does being an artist impact your life? 

Megan: I enjoy making special ornaments for others. The look on people's faces when they see their custom ornaments makes them worth the work. This year I obtained my bachelor’s of science in nursing after being an associate’s RN for three and a half years. I work PRN at Haywood Regional Medical Center, and lately it’s been hard to get shifts with all the travelers we have hired. I have always enjoyed doing art, and now it's become a way to earn extra extra revenu, especially in the holiday season and when I’m not able to work as many nursing shifts. 

Rumble: Why do you feel handmade ornaments make wonderful holiday gifts? 

Megan: In my experience, gifting my family with custom ornaments adds another level of sentiment. It means more to receive a gift that was made specifically for you rather than a gift card or store-bought gift. Going to my family’s house on Christmas and seeing my ornaments on their trees makes my heart very happy.

Rumble: Where can peoople purchase your products? 

Megan: I have a bunch of my ornaments at 828 Market on Main Street. You can also contact me on Facebook or Instagram to order a custom ornament. Facebook- Megan McCracken James, Instagram- Megannn_marie_