ABOUT VENA

Vena Crichlow...

Greetings! Thank you for stopping by! I am Vena, also known as Vee...a bead artist, who designs and makes Ifetayo Artwear, a unique line of beaded jewelry using healing crystals. Ifetayo is a word from the Yoruba culture of Nigeria that means “love is a gift” or “love brings happiness.” The jewelry I create uses healing crystals and offers subtle healing energy while complimenting the wearer through bold combinations of color and textures that are reflective of the flair and style of African people globally. Each piece is created with intention and to help the wearer feel good.

In 2019, I launched Waistbeads n Wine™ to offer women a space to engage in the soul-stirring work of manifesting through the practice of beading. In this workshop, women are guided through the power of setting intentions, receive information on the use and selection of healing crystals that align with their intentions and guided to create a custom designed waistbead that is fortified with their

energy. This experience helps women to manifest their dreams and their desires. I am also the curator of The Grown Ass Mama Tour™, an annual retreat for mothers and caretakers which is held twice a year in various locations throughout the world. This event creates a safe space for women to unpack and heal themselves, using the power of nature to rejuvenate us as we rest and relax.

Gardening is a place where I am filled with peace and joy. I nurture a multitude of houseplants and tend to a small outdoor garden where I grow food throughout the year. I began gardening after my youngest sister's death, and it has served as as a pathway to wellness for me. I grew up in a home where both of my parents had green thumbs and where my father grew tomatoes on our back patio in Brooklyn, New York, so gardening is a very familiar space. I have shared the impact gardening has had on my life on a TEDx stage.

I enjoy helping people who are starting indoor and outdoor garden spaces and encourage everyone to “play in the dirt." Gardening offers many lessons about life and can be used to help us heal during this sojourn called life. It also allows us to connect with our eldest ancestor, Mother Earth, and to tap into the restorative power of nature.

I currently reside in the metro Atlanta area and love to explore the world and its cultures through food and beads. I also enjoy cooking, interior design and writing. I am the mother of two amazing grown’ish adults, Nzali and Menra.