TAGazine | VOL. 10 (Golden Globes) 10 | Page 11

Leslie D. Tucker Surprise Designer Crocheted Goods In 2002, I started crocheting accessories for my children. My daughter was in preschool at the time and many of the children’s parents started asking me to make accessories for their families. I was a stay-at-home mom with five children at home. I didn’t have a lot of time to run a business so I decided to treat this new venture as a hobby. In 2008 I applied for my tax ID number and business license and Surprise Designer was born! “I am a fiber artist. I design beautiful crochet designs that are affordable, comfortable, colorful, warm and appealing to anyone who can appreciate handmade.” Tell us about your professional background. I am a professional baker. I have been baking for over twenty years. Prior to moving to Delaware in 2012 I baked for local restaurants and cafes in Philadelphia. I also ran a successful dessert business for several years, specializing in vegan and gluten-free desserts. What’s the hardest part about running your own business? The hardest part about running my business is balancing family, work and business. What is your favorite part in the process of designing products? My favorite part in the process of designing comes from a place of amazement. I have been crocheting for over thirty years but am always amazed that I can take string or yarn and create a wearable work of art. What’s been your most popular item or line to date? The most popular item in my shop to date has been the fingerless gloves. surprisedesigner.com TAGazine | 11