Meet the Woodworker Who Turned Her Grief into a Source of Inspiration
Woodworking: A Journey of Healing and Empowerment
Monica Chavez, the founder of House of Esperanza, is not just a woodworker; she’s an inspiration to women and grieving mothers everywhere. Her journey with woodworking began as a young girl, watching her father fix things around the house.
As an adult, Monica’s life took a tragic turn when she lost her son. In the depths of her grief, she found solace in working with her hands. Woodworking became a therapeutic outlet, reminding her of her love for creating and the joy of building something from scratch.
From Hobby to Passion: Nurturing Creativity and Motherhood
Monica’s passion for woodworking grew, and she dove into learning more about the craft. She experimented with different techniques and materials, discovering her love for the challenges and rewards of building.
When she became pregnant with her second son, Monica knew she wanted to be home to raise her family. She left her job as a dispatcher and began to explore ways to use her skills and talents creatively while being a present mother.
Social Media and the Rise of an Influencer
Through Instagram and TikTok, Monica shared her woodworking projects and DIY experiences, inspiring others with her enthusiasm and encouraging messages. She embraced her role as a woman, a woman of color, and a mother in the traditionally male-dominated world of woodworking.
A Dream Realized: Empowering Women Through Woodworking
If budget and time were no constraints, Monica’s dream is to create a giant workshop where women can come and learn the craft of woodworking. She believes that access to tools and a supportive community can empower women to pursue their passions and build self-confidence.
Favorite Projects: A Showcase of Skill and Creativity
One of Monica’s proudest accomplishments is her 14-foot home library, a project she completed alongside her family over two years. She also enjoys creating unique pieces, such as a cigar room-inspired lounge for her sister and an outdoor playhouse for her children.
Problem-Solving: A Thrilling Challenge
Monica embraces the unexpected challenges that arise during her projects. She sees them as opportunities for creativity and problem-solving. Her ability to think on her feet and find innovative solutions is one of her greatest strengths as a woodworker.
Safety First: Essential Gear for DIYers
Monica emphasizes the importance of safety glasses in woodworking. She has learned from experience that protecting her eyes is crucial to avoid accidents.
Lessons Learned: Embracing Mistakes and Growth
Monica believes that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. She encourages others to embrace the learning process and not be afraid to experiment.
The Future of Woodworking: A Vision of Inclusivity and Inspiration
Monica’s goal is to continue inspiring others through her woodworking journey. She hopes to break down barriers and create a more inclusive and welcoming space for women in the field.
Tips for Aspiring Woodworkers:
- Don’t be intimidated by the term “woodworker.” You can learn and improve by doing.
- Find a mentor or join a community to connect with others who share your passion.
- Practice regularly and experiment with different projects to develop your skills.
- Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and problem-solving.
- Most importantly, have fun and let your creativity shine through!
