This summer we travelled to Nantucket, a beautiful island about 25 miles out to sea off the coast of Massachusetts, in the United States. We were staying on the coast with my parents at a beach house they had rented in Cape Cod. Knowing I was so close to the island where some of my favourite creative families lived, I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to visit. I’d known Kaity (of Fareisle) and Michelle (of Dancey Pants Disco) for a while and was getting to know Alana (of Tafari Designs). The visit did not disappoint. I was completely inspired by their way of life, crafted in such a way that their passions support their families, feeding their creative interests and their tummies too. I asked Alana and Michelle if they would share their stories on the blog, so others could be inspired. They humbly agreed. (I’ve already posted about Kaity here — she is equally inspiring, especially for food creatives). So, first, Alana.

Alana is a mother, gardener, jewellery and textile designer, who understood from a young age what truly made her happy, what filled her heart and inspired her mind, and proceeded to fashion a life after these. She’s an inspiration to me, I’ve followed a more conventional path of dividing career, home and interests. I only wish I had the insights and confidence Alana did sooner. Please read on to hear from Alana, herself.

Tell me a little bit about yourself. What is your background?

I’m a island girl, born and raised on Nantucket’s sister island, Martha’s Vineyard. I’ve always loved island life and felt a strong connection with the ocean for as long as I can remember. My parents moved to the New Hampshire countryside when I was 9 and while I loved running through the fields and forests, picking apples and laying in meadow grass I longed for our summers on the Vineyard and I always knew I would dwell seaside.

What part of the world do you live in?

Nantucket Island, 26 miles off the mainland of Massachusetts.

How many children do you have and how would you describe them?

Marcus and I have two sons. David is 7 years old and he’s spirited and soulful, and very creative –He keeps us on our toes, and continues to amaze us with his wisdom and wit! Hue is 8 months old and he’s bright-eyed and joyful, and very sweet –loves laughing and screeching!

What are your core family values?

Our core family values are honesty and kindness. Two very different, difficult things to balance but it’s what we strive for. To be honest and kind to each other, the earth and ourselves.

How do you spend most of your days?

We spend our days cooking and making, our days are full but we’re so thankful to be living our dreams.

What is your favourite thing to do as a family?

We love to go to the beach together. Swimming and bodysurfing, walking the shore, collecting shells and watching the sunset.

What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about sustainability, about resourcefulness, about enjoying and loving nature, about my family, and about cultivating a meaningful life.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by nature, travel, the sea, the stars, my husband and our children.

Can you tell me a bit about Tafari Designs?

Tafari means inspiration in Aramaic. Tafari Designs is a culmination of our inspirations — it will always be evolving, as we are. For now we’re happily making what we love –reclaimed woodwork and art, naturally dyed textiles and wampum jewelry.

Why did you decide to start a business? 

Starting our business felt like something we just had to do. Marcus and I both have always worked for ourselves since we were teenagers and when we joined together we really wanted to do work that felt meaningful and allowed us the lifestyle we desired –for Marcus that meant freedom to take a swim in the middle of the day or cook a meal when he felt hungry, for me it meant staying closer to home, working with my hands and being with my kids.

Did your career aspirations change once you had a child? 

Definitely. I had originally wanted to be a travel writer but when I was pregnant with David I had an overwhelming desire to make with my hands.

What are your dreams for your business?

I have so many dreams for my business but I really try to take it slow. I’d love to start incorporating some women’s wear pieces into my textile line and experiment using different shells for my jewelry designs. I’d love to teach workshops and expand my business enough to employ my very talented quilter and seamstress mother –whose talents put mine to shame.

Thank you, Alana, for sharing pieces of your life. Readers you can find Alana on Instagram @alanadorothy. You can also find her and her husband’s online store and blog here: www.tafarinantucket.com

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