A simple craft project is turning into a growing business for a Glen Cove mom who’s giving water bottles a personal touch.

Maria Anselmo, founder of The Bottle Bracelet, first came up with the idea for her daughter, Giovanna, using her background in fashion styling to create an accessory that reflects her daughter’s personality and interests. “I just made one for her. I had no intention of starting a business, and people started stopping me,” Anselmo said.

After seeing the interest, Anselmo continued creating bottle bracelets featuring colorful charms and designs for a variety of interests. She made her first bracelet in November 2025, and by March 2026, the products were already being sold in retail stores.

The business has since grown to hundreds of bracelets, with Anselmo’s children getting a firsthand look at the process. Her 9-year-old daughter, Giovanna, is already showing an interest in following in her mom’s footsteps.

For Anselmo, the business has become more than a creative outlet. “I am a full-time mom, but this has become a full-time passion project,” she said.

The former fashion stylist says the business allows her to get creative again, work with her hands, and build something of her own.