About Vicki Woods

When I was in high school, I accidentally discovered the bassoon. I instantly fell in love with its' unique, melancholy sound and quickly became a skilled musician because of the passion and time I spent with this beautiful instrument.

Years later, I took my first international vacation to Costa Rica. I was overwhelmed by its amazing abundance of fascinating flora and fauna and had found heaven on earth. Maybe the Lord created Costa Rica to give us a small glimpse of Heaven?! Since that first trip, I have gone back 7 more times and I never tire of its' endless beauty. As a result of our first trip, I also discovered bird-watching, photography and digiscoping. I loved being able to capture photos of some of these amazing animals, birds, flowers and landscapes and have taken thousands of photos since our first trip. Since Costa Rica, I have traveled to Switzerland, Germany, England and Jamaica - and experienced more amazing sights! Take a peak at some of my favorite photos in my website slideshow and enjoy!

In 2003, I began to take another journey and soon discovered a love for plants in the desert Southwest. I became a Master Gardener and then attended and graduated from the intensive 10 month Desert Landscaper School through the Desert Botanical Gardens in Tempe, Arizona. I was now a Certified Desert Landscaper and found such peace and joy when I was working, studying, and experimenting with plants that grow in the Southwest desert. As with Costa Rica, plants and their flowers remind me of the beauty in God's creations.

And in between high school and now, I:

• Had 6 major back surgeries to help correct/maintain my severe scoliosis and now have 14 fused vertebraes.
• Graduated from ASU with a degree in Industrial Engineering.
• Married the most wonderful man, who is an Electrical Engineer, and have been married for 32 years.
• Have a beautiful daughter and son-in-law who are both Electrical Engineers.
• Have adopted numerous dogs, cats, birds, and became known as "Woods Zoo".
• Have a beautiful granddaughter and grandson.
• Love the Phoenix Suns.

Now to my jewelry . . . . . . .

My jewelry career began in 2008 after an unfortunate incident with my granite kitchen counter top. With a broken heel, I needed something indoors to help pass the time while recovering. I was introduced to the world of beads by my mother. I quickly began creating and selling one-of-a-kind jewelry. Custom Jewelry Creations (later becoming VLW Custom Jewelry) was soon formed and as my skills and techniques improved, I began looking for additional challenges. While reading a jewelry magazine, I was exposed to the art of wire wrapping and fell in love with its detail and beauty. I soon discovered Arizona had its own wire wrap jewelry artisan and instructor - Ann Turpin Thayer. I studied under the masterful skill of Ann and was hooked! Months later, I was juried into a gallery in Flagstaff, Arizona. I continue to experiment and expand my knowledge as I work with stunning stones or handmade lampworked beads which remind me of the beauty of Costa Rica. My wire-wrapped jewelry will be something to treasure that will last for decades.

I hope you enjoy looking through my work and remember - You are God's Masterpiece!