behind the studio

how it started

I come from a long line of shoe lovers - we believe you can never have enough! As for me, my preferred footwear has always been sandals. If not in sandals, I tend to prefer to be barefoot…and outside! I’m happiest outside, in the sun…hence, Terra (“earth) Sole (“sun”) Studio.So how did TerraSole start? I'm a daughter of an entrepreneur in the tech space, I too followed the corporate path and have spent over 17 years at various tech companies. While the corporate path has served me well, it started becoming less and less fulfilling as the years went on and I always felt like I wanted something more, something mine, something creative.Now in addition to my successful entrepreneur father, I am also half my mother, a solopreneur and handcrafter. My mother is a Nantucket basket weaver, where she has mastered this historic craft and now hosts workshops and sells her goods on Nantucket and throughout New England. Like my mother, I love to create with my hands, and I wanted something that sparked my creative side - I found Italian sandal making.Once I discovered Italian sandal making, it was within a few short weeks that I found myself on a plane to Sorrento, Italy, where I would learn this incredible craft right in the heart of its origin.I jumped on this opportunity not only for me, but for my family, especially my kids. I want them to know that they should follow their passions, find what lights them up and brings them joy - and go after it wholeheartedly.Here's to embracing what inspires us and bringing our passions to life! A heartfelt thanks for supporting me and my small business!

Neala

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a student of the craft

in italy

I had the privilege of learning how to craft sandals, right where it all started - the southern coast of Italy. I spent time touring stores where I could see the unique styles and endless creativity in Italian sandal making. I learned the details of designing and fitting custom sandals and I met with my materials supplier, toured their facility, and got to view and feel different leathers and soles and select what aligned for my brand.In a world of fast fashion and mass production, I’m drawn to the artistry and intention of Italian sandal making - from sourcing premium leather to creating each unique design. It’s all about quality and craftsmanship.I'm one of a few sandal artisans outside of Italy, creating in the Italian style, something I absolutely treasure. I get to expose my little piece of the world to a this beautiful handcraft and being from Italian decent myself, this craft holds an extra special place in my heart.

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