Hi, I'm Maria. I'm sure you've guessed by now I'm the woman behind Made By Maria. I am a fiesty red head, I'm feminine and I love all things pink and frilly, but I'm not affraid to bait a hook or camp in a tent. I face my challenges head on. I love nature, I've hiked all over Southern Utah and feel most at home in the beautiful red rocks, with deep red sand between my toes and fingers. I've fished for salmon off the coast of Alaska and swam in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

I have been married to my soul mate and the love of my life, Ben for 7 years. Together we've faced many challenges and experienced much joy and accomplishment. Most joy has come from our 3 children, Kyler (5-26-00) he is our eldest and I can say with most certainty that he has taught me more than I could ever teach him. He is constantly amazing me with his knowledge and deep curiosity about the world around him. He's cautious and aware of everything. Kileah (4-1-02) the princess of the family and my mini-me, she's fiesty and fabulous. She catches on extremely quickly and is a true believer. Sophia is our baby (4-23-06) she is so anxious to do everything her siblings do, she has an opinion and isn't afraid to express it. Her curiosity is inspiring.

I started sewing when I was 3 years old. My grandma taught me to sew by hand and together we made pillows for my dolls. When I was 8 I recieved my first sewing machine and my first "real" project was a bag, I still remember that little bag very vividly, it was red with white polka dots and I even made a little yellow bow to go on it. I filled it with cotton balls and gave it to my grandma.

Sewing has always came very naturally to me. I come by it rightly, my mother is a very talented seamstress, as is my sister. I have a knack for pattern making and there are few items or designs I can't instantly tell how to make.

A few years ago a good friend of mine was pregnant and having a difficult time finding a diaper bag that she liked and fit her style. Inspired by online crafting communities I pulled out my dusty sewing machine and made my first bag. It was a tote bag, larger than any I'd seen with lots of pockets. I gave it to her as a baby shower gift and she loved it. As did all the other women in attendance, my business was born. With the support and encouragement of friends and family I have been building my business for 2 years. That tote bag is still in use today, on baby #2 for that particular family.

I look forward to working with you!