Pins for a Cause
2017 Passion Project
In March of 2017, I started my own enamel pin business named Pins for a Cause. I started the business because I wanted to turn my designs into something physical, and I had a growing interest in enamel pin collecting.
This business allowed me to make friends, connections, and I was fortunate to have collaborated with talented artists such as Bijou Bentley (AKA Benjamin Slater), Eric Magnussen, and Phi Phi O'hara from Rupaul's Drag Race (AKA Jaremi Carey).
When contemplating my values for the business, I knew I wanted to incorporate philanthropy in some form. Devoting a percentage of the proceeds from the pins to a designated charity or mutual aid was my solution. When it came time to name it, "Pins for a Cause" felt natural! (Percentages from the pins ranged from 10% to 100% of the proceeds.)
The biggest achievement from this business was raising over $3,000 for Somos Una Voz, a relief initiative, in collaboration with Phi Phi O'Hara for his event, Queens United.
The Fame Monster by Lady Gaga Inspired Enamel Pin
ARTPOP by Lady Gaga Inspired Enamel Pin
RuPaul's Drag Race Inspired Pin
Bijou Bentley Enamel Pin
(Collaboration with Benjamin Slater)
Eric Magnussen Enamel Pin
(Collaboration with Eric Magnussen)
Queens United Enamel Pin
(Collaboration with Phi Phi O'hara)
Bijou Bentley Enamel Pin #2
(Collaboration with Benjamin Slater)
