After earning second place for a latch-hook creation in a school science fair, life-long crafter Shelley Williams fell hard for handmade projects and never looked back.
Driven by the desire to help others tap into their creativity, Shelley started a summer arts program at her neighborhood park when she was in college. Years later, when she was unable to find the right venue to teach soap making, the born-to-be educator knew that it was time to open her own art studio.
Shelley started Craft + Light in Long Beach, CA in 2026, hoping to create a hub where everyone, regardless of age could discover their creativity. Passionate about building a community around creative hobbies like pottery and candle-making, Shelley’s biggest thrill comes from watching her students have fun while learning new skills.
The first thing I ever made…
A needlepoint. I really enjoyed it so I remember it well.
I’m on a mission to…
Show everyone that they are creative. I also believe everyone shines their light when they create. I believe that when given the opportunity to simply relax, think, and create, people discover themselves and do their best work. I wanted to create an atmosphere – in person and online – where creativity could flourish and people could rest from the day.
When I come up with a new creative project I…
Write it down! I have many ideas so I write them down and I look at my list to see what’s most doable and in alignment with my goals for the studio.
Teaching others has taught me…
That I love to teach. It’s such a pleasure!
The holiday season smells like…
Cinnamon and vanilla.
This year I’m grateful for…
I’m grateful for my family, who always had a load of encouragement for me. My wonderful clients, who spread the word about the studio and who turned it into a community space, showered me with kindness!
