My name is Elena, I’m the owner and creator of Monili Bella & Mi Foto Bella. And if you’re wondering what they both mean… “Monili Bella” is italian for “Beautiful Jewelry” and “Mi Foto Bella” means “My Beautiful Photos”. And some things just sound a littler sweeter in the Italian language right?
I’ve been making jewelry for over 15 years now. And photography has been a love of mine since high school. Both keep me plenty busy… and if that’s not enough, I do have a full time job and try to be craft any chance I get!
I’ve lived in Portland, OR nearly all my life and love it here. We have such a beautiful landscape around us that is so inspiring day after day. During the winter months, I enjoy being up on the mountain on my snowboard, and during the summer there is no place better then being by the water! I enjoy wine tasting, hiking with beautiful scenery, and of course doing misc crafty things. I am so lucky to be surrounded by beautiful, amazing people that inspire me everyday. From coworkers to my best friends, and blogs that I follow as if my life depended on them.
And you still want to know more? Here are some fun facts about me:
I’ve been known to cry during movies, happy or sad. A trait I used to tease my mom about, and now I just tease myself.
I love ice cream (Rocky Road, Mint Chocolate Chip, and most recently, Tillamook Coffee Almond Fudge!)
My favorite color is royal blue, although it changes between that and turquoise.
I am lucky to live with the sweetest man I know.
I love bubble baths, but don’t get enough of them.
I love my pup like he’s my child.
I have too many shoes.
I love sleeping in, but will happily wake up early for vacations and snowboarding.
I am an only child. But feel my best girlfriends are truly my sisters.
My favorite movie is “Love Actually” for way too many reasons.
I wear my heart on my sleeve. There’s usually no question about how I’m feeling.
This is truly one of my favorite quotes, and one I try to live by. ”The happiest people don’t necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have”
