Meet Esmeralda Llindis: Mom of two, wife and cuddly toy maker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Esmeralda Llindis and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Esmeralda, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
Definitely the word is determination. I believe that I have taught my children to dream and go for their dreams, no matter how big or small they may be, so that when they are adults they look back on their childhood, they remember that their mother achieved many things in her life just to be determined
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a creative and restless person, I have always liked crafts. Following the birth of my daughter Ana, I decided to return to crochet knitting, I had already learned it at the age of 9, and although I had not knitted again in my life, I had not forgotten it (what is well learned is never forget) at first I started knitting stuffed animals for her, and then I couldn’t stop. I decided (this really was my husband idea) to start my own small business, without any intention, beyond that of making stuffed animals for personal satisfaction, I did not imagine that after these 9 years of So Much Cute (SM Cute) I would lose count of how many stuffed animals and dolls I have make and in how many countries are they. At the beginning it was not easy, at that time it was not a very popular knitting style, not like now, getting patterns, tutorials or the appropriate materials, it was not easy (and even less for left-handed people) but little by little and with many stumbles I managed to reach the skills I have now. My stuffed animals are made on request, almost always with characteristics, or with the favorite colors of their future owner, each of them are made with love, patience and dedication. That makes my work special, original and unique. They are received in their new homes with illusion and love, many times they are the first stuffed toy for a newborn, others have been the crib companion of some premature baby, or the dream companion of a baby who sleeps in his room, This is this is the greatest satisfaction and reward
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am from Caracas, Venezuela, I have lived in the city of Katy, in Texas, for almost 10 years, this is a small city full of charming places, with beautiful lakes, and full of beautiful places to walk or eat. Take your blanket, some snacks and go to the Centerra on a Saturday night for a movie in the green area, or spend an afternoon at No Label Brewing Co. with friends while the children play in the park, Dinner at Kokai Sushi and lounge (for me the best sushi in town), go for a walk to Blessington Farm and spend the day eating kettle pop corn, picking strawberries or enjoying the attractions and activities of the place.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give credit to my husband Daniel for all that I have achieved, for believing in me, for his support, patience and love. To my wonderful family who go with me to every bazaar, to every place where my work goes, for their collaboration, help and support, thank you for being my number one fans and my greatest support.
Website: https://smcute.wixsite.com/smcute
Instagram: @smcute
Other: Etsy Store https://www.etsy.com/shop/SMCute?ref=seller-platform-mcnav Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/smcutecrochet