By Valerie Milano
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 12/4/25 – Jewelry designer Debbie Slavkin of Made by Mimi Designs, a creative force whose work blends artistry, resilience, and heartfelt craftsmanship, was also a proud contributor to this year’s celebration. Debbie created the custom jewelry I wore when I received the Spirit of Stonewall Arts & Culture Honor at the 2025 Palm Springs Pride Honors Awards. Her pieces have been gaining notable visibility, recently appearing in the gift bags at the American Cinematheque Gala honoring Michael B. Jordan.
Debbie’s work is deeply personal. After a traumatic brain injury in 2013 ended her decades-long career in entertainment production, beadwork became both a healing journey and a new artistic calling. “It gave me purpose, it gave me joy, and it brought me back to myself,” she told The Hollywood Times during our recent interview.
Her brand’s name, Made by Mimi, is inspired by her grandchildren, reflecting a business rooted in love, reinvention, and connection. Each piece is handcrafted without a rigid blueprint. “The beads tell me where to go,” she said. “Sometimes the piece surprises me, but it always feels right.”
Debbie has now created more than 900 one-of-a-kind designs, including holiday collections, men’s bracelets, Pride-themed accessories, and custom pieces. Her newest releases can be found at madebymimidesigns.com, where she also highlights her ongoing commitment to giving back. Thanks to her loyal customers, she will soon be making her first donations to two Los Angeles–based non-profits: The Miracle Project and Bloom Arts Foundation.
For those who want to experience her work in person, Made by Mimi Designs will be featured at the Open Magnet Charter School Holiday Boutique on Wednesday, December 17.
“Jewelry should make you smile,” Debbie said. “If I can bring a little happiness into someone’s day with something I made, then I’ve done what I set out to do.”
https://themiracleproject.org/ and https://www.
