Malenna Creations
Meet Fedora Braverman, the owner of Malenna Creations.
Website: malennacreations.etsy.com
Tell us about your business.
“Malenna Creations offers handcrafted jewelry that blends artistry, quality and meaning. Each piece is thoughtfully designed and handmade using unique material, from hand-rolled paper beads to glass, filigree, and natural textures, creating one-of-a-kind accessories you won’t find anywhere else.”
What inspired you to start your business?
“Malenna Creations was born from a love of storytelling through jewelry. I wanted to create pieces that weren’t just accessories, but tiny works of art, each with its own soul, texture, and color story. The inspiration came from a mix of nature’s details, global artisan traditions, and the joy of making something with my own hands that could bring beauty into someone’s life. After years of working in public service and communications, I turned to jewelry-making as a way to slow down, and create with intention because Malenna is about more than just style, it’s about meaning, craftsmanship, and carrying a bit of art with you wherever you go.”
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.
“I make handmade jewelry designed to add beauty and individuality to everyday style. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted to celebrate creativity and self-expression. I design handcrafted jewelry using handmade paper beads, blending tradition, color, and creativity. Each piece is thoughtfully made to celebrate individuality—and makes a meaningful gift for special occasions. My paper bead designs are especially perfect for first anniversaries, where paper is the traditional symbol of love’s first year. Thank you for supporting handmade art and heartfelt gifting!”
What was your role at NIH?
“I worked at the National Institute of Aging in the Office of Communications and Public Liaison for 22 years (between being a contractor and a fed).”
How has your NIH experience influenced your business journey?
“My years in communications and public service taught me the value of storytelling, clarity, and connecting with people from all walks of life. That experience shaped how I approach Malenna Creations—every piece has a purpose, a story, and it’s made with the same care I once put into reaching diverse audiences with valuable information.”
What is something you're proud of or excited about right now?
“I’m proud on how quickly Malenna Creations has grown from a small creative outlet into a shop with loyal customers who appreciate the artistry and care behind each piece. Recently, I’ve been especially excited about launching new collections that combine unexpected materials, like handmade paper beads with glass and filigree for truly unique designs. Seeing my pieces find homes across the country (and even internationally!) has been such a rewarding milestone, and I’m excited to keep expanding the shop with more meaningful, one-of-a kind creations.”
“Every piece at Malenna Creations is handmade with care and intention, so when you shop here, you’re not just buying jewelry, you are supporting an artist’s passion and helping keep the tradition of handcrafted work alive.”
