By Valerie Milano
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 10/27/25 – Recently I had the pleasure of interviewing Debbie Slavkin, the founder of Made by Mimi Designs, whose jewelry creations are as inspiring as the story behind them. Despite a few technical hiccups during our video call, Debbie’s warmth and passion for her craft came through clearly showcasing how art can transform both life and livelihood.
For three decades, Debbie worked in entertainment production, a demanding industry that sharpened her organizational and creative skills. But in 2013, her world changed when she suffered a traumatic brain injury. What could have been a devastating setback instead sparked a new path.
“I lost some executive functioning skills,” she shared, “but I found something incredibly cathartic in beadwork. It gave me purpose, it gave me joy, and it brought me back to myself.”
The name Made by Mimi comes from her grandchildren, who affectionately call her Mimi. “They are the heart behind the name,” she said. “Family is what grounds me, and this business is really a reflection of that love.”
Debbie explained that she rarely begins with a set plan. Instead, she lets the beads guide her. “I’ll pick up colors or textures that inspire me, and suddenly a pattern emerges. Sometimes the piece surprises me, it’s not what I imagined, but it feels right.”
Her collection includes necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and playful phone straps, with designs themed for holidays and special occasions. Currently, she’s crafting pieces for Halloween, Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and football season, and is even expanding to custom school, color football jewelry.
“I’ve created more than 900 pieces,” Debbie said proudly. “And every one of them carries a little piece of my healing and my happiness.”
Beyond the artistry, Debbie has built an online presence where she shares and sells her designs. Her website, madebymimidesigns.com, and social media channels,
“I want people to see that these aren’t just accessories. They’re expressions. Every necklace or bracelet has a story, and when someone wears it, they become part of that story.”
Her dedication goes beyond the craft itself. Debbie actively sends out emails, instant messages, and texts every few days to showcase her newest creations, ensuring her clients always feel engaged and included.
Despite the challenges of technology and health, Debbie’s vision for Made by Mimi Designs remains strong: to continue creating pieces that bring joy, mark special moments, and celebrate individuality.
“Jewelry should make you smile,” she said simply. “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.”
