Where did my Characters Come From?

I’ve often been asked how I create my characters and choose their names. One of my favorite parts of writing is dreaming up names for my beloved fae characters. My process begins with visual inspiration by searching the internet for pictures that spark my imagination. I don’t limit myself to a specific type of fae or particular wing colors; instead, I let the image guide me. When I find a photo or illustration that resonates, the character is born. With their appearance in mind, I turn to character name generators and fantasy name lists, blending and reshaping names until I create something truly unique.
Now the surface work is done. Now I need to expand this idea into a three-dimensional character. Armed with the photo and name, it becomes easier to mold a personality. If a photo of a fairy is cute with an adorable dress (such as Elarella) I see a fae that is powerful but playful and innocent. Another photo of a fairy stoic (such as Charmella), I see a character who is confident in herself and her convictions, caring, but doesn’t show it.
I made sure that throughout the story that each character has human-type personality for the reader can connect, such as how these characters communicate as sisters. Just like real-life sisters. Sometimes they argue, but in the end, they are there for each other. Showcase their powers to match their personalities. Such as Ela will say Whoop when she makes a mistake, or Charmella tells her sisters that they are jealous of her because she is beautiful and curvy.
It was fun seeing these characters come to life, and I can’t wait to see where they take me in the next novel – Before The Fall.