Hello, I'm Joely. I'm from a wonderful island located in the Caribbean Sea, the Dominican Republic, where I was born and raised. Thave been living in New York City since my early teens. At first, it was challenging to adapt to a new culture while learning a new language, but luckily, I found friendships that made my journey manageable.

I have always been a very creative person. I embroidered my jean jacket with flowers and really enjoy creating new things with my sewing machine. I grew up around creative people most of my life. I remember watching my grandma use her sewing machine to create clothes and make adjustments for others. My aunt also inspired me, she went to college for fashion design and interior design. I remember seeing her work on her projects and thinking they were fascinating and inspiring.

Embroidery and sewing marked my childhood. Although I never got the chance to touch any of those tools because they were important and expensive, and my family couldn't afford for them to break, the desire to create stayed with me.

Later, in 2020, when the entire world was paralyzed, I found myself reflecting on life and searching for something I could truly enjoy. That's when I started doing hand embroidery. At first, I just created small pieces, but I soon found myself loving it. I decided to get a sewing machine, something I had always wanted but thought I couldn't afford, as it always seemed like a big investment.

When my sewing machine arrived, I didn't know how to operate it, so l began watching tutorials on YouTube. The first thing I learned to make was a face mask. I started creating masks for my family and friends, and then I thought, maybe I can make a profit from this. Selling masks was a total success, and I decided to explore more. I began creating accessories for children such as hair bows, birthday crowns, and more.

The idea of creating my own brand started to take shape. At first, I felt lost and scared, but I wanted to follow my dreams.

I love creating unique, personalized pieces. I want each of my creations to make a connection with my clients.

I'm also a mental health advocate. I promote mental health awareness through my work, creating pieces that encourage self-acceptance and self-love. Eventually, I decided to donate a portion of my profits to an organization I'm passionate about: the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (ASP). I am a loss survivor, I lost my younger brother to suicide, and ever since, I've been committed to supporting this foundation and spreading awareness.

I hope to continue creating and advocating for mental health, because it MATTERS!

My advice to you all is this: follow your dreams, make time for yourself, and explore your true passions.

Feel free to tag me in photos of your little ones wearing MIbydreamers creations!

Instagram: @Mlbydreamers

#MIbydreamers