Maria has a BA in Art and Design and worked in Interior Architecture for 10 years.

She grew up on the island of Cyprus, in a family where all the women knew how to knit, sew, stitch and cook. Her parents were avid gardeners, and together as a family turned 18 acres into a paradise of vineyards, orchards, olive groves and magnificent vegetable and flower gardens. She learnt from a young age to appreciate the beauty even in the simplest of things. When she stared her family she decided to give up Corp. America and stay home to raise her children.

She became the new owner of Cedar Hill in 1998, and embarked on a new career of creating beautiful patterns
for the cross stitch market. Her gardens, animals and faith are her inspiration.

Maria lives in Dayton, OH with her husband Paul and 4 children.