About Irma Niekum
Artist & Founder
What if you could wake up everyday and completely fall in love with your work? What if you felt so passionate about something that it became a part of you -- an extension of who you are? I'm lucky to be able to say that my work is my passion. Gifts Define is that extension of me and resonates all of the creative passion I have for creating whimsical little treats that make people happy. I am so blessed to know that with every stitch of every treasure I create, I ultimately bring a smile to another's face. Art has always come naturally for me as my Dad would spend his weekend to teach me the art of calligraphy and illustrations, while my Mother and Aunts would surround me with colorful fabrics, craft journals, and handmade dolls. Having an outlet for my creativity gave me a sense of enlightenment and joy at being able to imagine storybook happy little characters in my mind and make them tangible.After moving to the United States in 2001 to attend graduate school, I quickly became homesick for my native Indonesia and the family and friends I had left behind. To find some comfort in my new surroundings, I resumed my hobby of creating wool felt dolls which became my, 'little friends away from home.' Not only did my hobby keep the homesickness at bay while I made new friends, it helped me hone my artistic skills and bring some more of my designs to life. In 2006 I knew I was ready to take my hobby to the next level. Though I worked for corporate America, my heart really belonged in developing my creativity into a business. In that light, Gifts Define™ was launched! Now, Gifts Define™ is a premier place to find premium gifts and party favors, decorative objects and so much more. The cornerstones of my business are the true uniqueness of every item matched by the superb quality and top notch customer service. I'm always expanding Gift Define's product lines to add even more incredible products to make my customer's smile, and reflect how happy I am to be doing what I love, everyday.