Being Geek Chic is a blog about one woman navigating the male-dominated industries of production and tech. It's written by Elizabeth Giorgi, Founder, CEO and Director of Mighteor - one of the world's first internet video production companies. Learn more about Mighteor here.
Meet Mari Ruiz. She’s a talented designer, diehard accessorizer, and lover of all things geek chic. Living in sunny California, Ruiz creates geek-inspired handbags and clutches that will give your outfit an instant pop.
Check out her bags on Etsy here. Our favorites? The Super Mario clutch (when did Bowser get so chic?), the Stormtrooper clutch (for those ready to join the dark side), and the bob-omb clutch (for when you’re having a blast).
Ruiz is currently a Fashion Nominee for The Geekie Awards. The winners are chosen by public voting, so before you read her interview with BGC, give a fellow lady geek some love and cast your vote here: http://vote2015.thegeekieawards.com/.
Q: How did you discover your passion for designing geek chic accessories?
A: My passion for designing started at a very young age, and I have been developing this passion all of my life, it is what I truly love to do! I absolutely love creating, coming up with new ideas, experimenting and bringing those ideas to life. I am also a huge geekie fan, when I love something I want to surround my entire world with it and can’t seem to ever get enough! Clothing and accessories are a big part of that world, and love having fun with style! This is where geek chic accessories come in, they are great because you can add them to any outfit and instantly showcase your geekie side ; ) “A little nonsense now and then is cherished by the wisest men” – Willy Wonka
Q: Where you do envision lady geeks taking your clutches and wristlets
A: Anywhere, anytime! This is one of the things I love about accessories, the styling possibilities are endless and you get to be creative with the look! When I design clutches one thing I love doing is incorporating gems, studs and metallic fabrics so they are versatile enough to be worn everyday or as an accent piece for a special occasion.
Q: Where do you find your inspiration in life?
A: Everywhere! I find everything in life inspiring for both creative design ideas and for pursuing my dreams. I have an irresistible desire to be constantly creating; it is what I do for fun and it allows me to pull ideas from everything. I am also extremely passionate about following my dreams and inspiring others to follow theirs as well, there is nothing better than seeing someone’s imagination sparked by something I created!
Q: If you could take any fictional character out for a drink, whom would you choose and what would you drink?
A: Albus Dumbledore for a butterbeer ; ) …and in real life J.K. Rowling for a butterbeer ; )
Q: What would you tell your 13-year-old self?
A: I would share some of my favorite quotes that continue to keep me inspired and motivated everyday:
“Whatever the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve.” – Napoleon Hill
“Your future is what you make it. So make it a good one!” – Doc Brown
“Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” – Dr. Suess
Emma Bauer is a Being Geek Chic Contributor. Clearly, she’s got great taste. She is a PR enthusiast, dog lover, tea drinker, art appreciator, and of course, aspires to Be Geek Chic. Follow her on Twitter: @emmalynnbauer
