A quick view of how I became a Teddy Bear Artist

   I started making stuffed animals in 1981 and made my first Teddy Bears for my children, Jason & Tracy in 1984 from left over fur from an Easter Rabbit costume!  We lived in Wisconsin at that time, and I soon began sewing additional bears, rabbits and dolls as gifts for family and friends.  Around the holidays this grew into a small business called "Nellie-Bug's Bears".  I had chosen this name as Nellie-Bug was the childhood nick name given to me by my father.  After moving to Ocala, Florida I worked in Real Estate with new home builders, which unfortunately left little time for Teddy Bears. Once my children were grown, I left real estate and joined my husband in his collectible aircraft parts business, hoping to find more time for my real love . . . creating bears!  In my spare time I began designing my own teddy bear patterns and refining my creations.  

My Sister, Michelle, and I decided to work together on creating my designs, and while she is no longer able to continue along this avenue with me, she was a special part in how Bearfoot Elegance came to be a business.  
God blessed both of us with a creative nature, and a mother who taught us to sew!  Michelle and I found ourselves drawn to those things that combine elegance with simplicity.  A few of the simple pleasures we both enjoyed was relaxing with a good book or taking long walks, barefoot, especially on the beach.  Even when dressed for those especially elegant occasions, you would often find the two of us barefoot!  Thus the company,  "Bearfoot Elegance" was born.  

I feel Teddy Bears tug at the heartstrings of each person who holds one. What a pleasure to know a heart has been warmed or see the sparkle in someone's eyes; to know a smile will light up your face as you fall in love with one of my special creations. 

Thanks for stopping by,

Janelle Bruchu

Bearfoot Elegance

Telephone:  701-757-0529