The Keepsake Studio spoke with Hallmark Artist Simone Mariano about herself and shared a glimpse of an ornament she created for 2025.

Simone: “My background is in illustration, but in my junior year of college I took a digital 3D modeling elective class and fell in love with it! I knew after graduating that I wanted to work in some type of 3D capacity, and when I saw the job listing for Hallmark ornaments, it felt like a perfect fit. Funnily enough, the teacher for the 3D class had also worked as a designer at Hallmark! When I started in 2020, my first role was as a concept designer, with a few sculpts here and there. But since moving to the Keepsake Studio, I’ve been primarily sculpting, which has been so fun! I still love illustrating, but after so many years studying and working in 2D, being able to work on something that becomes a tangible 3D object has been a breath of fresh air for me.”

Simone: “Gift giving can definitely be tough! Throughout the year, I try to jot down any interests or needs that my friends or family mention, and it gives me a good list to pull from when I’m shopping or looking for inspiration. When I receive gifts from my friends and family based on something I’ve said in passing, it makes me feel so seen and appreciated! So, I try to do the same for others.”

Sweet Lil’ Sushi
Miniature

Simone: “I loved making Sweet Lil’ Sushi—it’s just so adorable! The design is actually based on a sushi ornament I designed in my previous role for the Hallmark Tree Trimmers collection. But I knew I wanted to have sushi on a tray, and I liked the contrasting look between the makimono and nigiri sushi. The wooden serving tray and chopsticks were included to add more visual interest, and they help emulate sushi you’d maybe be served in a restaurant. I’m half Japanese on my mom’s side, and sushi is one of my favorite foods, so it was really fun to work on something so culturally relevant for me. You better believe my mom is gifting one to every member of her family!”

Simone Mariano
Hallmark Artist