I’ve recently received the pleasure of asking Loveland High School’s very own Louise Vermeil (12) a few questions. For those of you that don’t know her, Louise is an incredible student, a witty-humor advocate, and an avid debater on any subject that sparks her interest. However, I have yet to mention one of her most impressive accomplishments: Louise Vermeil Designs, her own successful self-starter. Amassing over 40,000 followers on Instagram, Vermeil’s fanbase spreads across the globe and her products are nothing short of happy pieces of art. Now, that’s enough of fueling her ego, let’s get to the interview!
What inspired you to start your business?
Vermeil: I was pretty young when I started pottery, I always enjoyed art but sculpture was definitely my favorite. I started selling at the studio I worked at and after a while started selling the pieces online when COVID started.
How long have you been in business?
Vermeil: I’m around two and a half years into business now!
How long does it take you to create a piece for your shop?
Vermeil: About a month cumulatively; pieces only take me about a minute to throw on the wheel but sculpting, firing, glazing, and sanding take much longer to complete.
How do you balance work and school life?
Vermeil: Work life balance is tough, I work right after I get home from school, usually for 4-5 hours. I try not to overwork myself but it can be difficult to put it away when you know you’re the only person working on something.
Do you make all of your products at home? At a local location?
Vermeil: I started by working out of the Whistle Stop Clayworks in downtown Loveland and gradually over time I’ve transitioned into being completely independent. I have a wheel and a kiln at home and a studio in my basement that I do most of my work out of.
Do you struggle with burnout and does that have any impact on your enjoyment of creating these products/your art outside of the ones for sale?
Vermeil: Everyone struggles with burnout, sometimes I have days or even weeks where I’m feeling unmotivated and don’t get a lot of work done. Usually when I’m feeling creative burnout I focus on something more academic and then go back to the creative work when I’m feeling more motivated.
Any advice for someone who wants to turn their favorite pastime into a successful business or someone who just wants to become an entrepreneur themselves?
Vermeil: Counter to what most would say, I think if you really love something for the fulfillment it gives you, you shouldn’t try to monetize it. On the other hand though, if you do decide to pursue your small business, DON’T BE AFRAID TO CHARGE FOR YOUR WORK! I started selling pieces for $10 because I thought that no one would pay more than that for a mug. I put a ton of time into my pieces and I’m so grateful people realize that and are more than happy to support me.
Louise Vermeil Designs is where I frequently spend my money, and hopefully this article convinces you to check her out for yourself! Here’s the link to her shop: linktr.ee/Louise_Vermeil
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