Artisan Joy Issue 5

Artisan Joy ISSUE 5

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Celebrating the positive impact of art and craft on the community and economy

MEET 10 CREATIVE ENTREPRENEURS

PAPER ARTIST JANNA WILLOUGHBY-LOHR

Discover How Reiki Can Ignite Your Creativity

10 Places Where You Can Donate Handmade Goods

Contents Editor’s Letter

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Navigating the Business of Art and Design: Wisdom from the Director of RISD’s Career Center

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10 Places Where You Can Donate Handmade Items

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Designer Jamie Batiste on How a Breakup Inspired Her to Build a Jewelry Business

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Meet Professional Tailor Shaelynn Haning Who’s Making Modern Sewing Lessons Available to All on YouTube

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How Beth McLacklan Conjured Up Metalsmithing Magic to Heal From Lyme Disease

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From Vertigo and Motion Sickness to Victory: Meet MommaBear Organics Founder Soraya Benitez

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Creating Paper Magic: Meet Paper Artist and Entrepreneur Janna Willoughby-Lohr

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Empowering Women, One Step at a Time: Meet Shoemaker and Designer Yvonne Liao

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From “Project Runway” To Wedding Aisle: Meet Laurie Underwood of Laury Bride

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How Reiki Can Help You Unlock Your Creativity or Overcome a Creative Block

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The Art of Mindful Crafting Meet Fiber Artist, Retreat Leader and Author Liza Laird

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How a Dyslexia Diagnosis in Her Late 30s Led Bonnie Monteleone to Become an Artist and Ocean Advocate

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How Sated Ventures Weaves Artisans into the Tapestry of Travel

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Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Stephanie Afonso Blanchard Artisan Joy is published quarterly. All rights reserved. No part of this publication or its affiliated website may be used without written permission of the publisher.

ISSN 2836-9998 (Print) / ISSN 2837-0007 (Online) Unless otherwise noted, Artisan Joy’s editorial team compiled all the interviews and wrote the introductions to the

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articles. Interviews have been edited for length and clarity. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please notify us at hello@artisanjoy.com and accept our sincere apologies. Thank you. ©2024 Contact Us Words N More Creative LLC dba Artisan Joy PO BOX 336, Barrington, RI 02806 hello@artisanjoy.com

Editor’s Letter

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am thrilled to share the latest issue of Artisan Joy. It’s filled with inspiring stories and insights from art, design and creative entrepreneurship. This issue highlights the incredible creativity and resilience of individuals who have pursued their passions and turned them into careers.

Discover Janna Willoughby-Lohr’s story about how she created a successful paper artistry business with employees. Be inspired by Jamie Batiste, who turned a breakup into the inspiration for her thriving jewelry company. Meet Shaelynn Haning, a professional tailor who’s making modern sewing lessons accessible to all on YouTube.

Our issue also delves into the transformative power of creativity in healing, with stories from jewelry designer Beth McLacklan and artist and ocean advocate Bonnie Monteleone.

Explore the world of entrepreneurial artisans, from Yvonne Liao, who empowers women through shoemaking, to Laurie Underwood, who went from “Project Runway” to the wedding aisle with Laury Bride. Be inspired by the art of mindful crafting with fiber artist, retreat leader and author Liza Laird.

We also take you on a journey with Sated Ventures, where artisans are woven into the tapestry of travel.

If you’re looking for ways to make a positive impact with craft, be sure to check out “10 Places Where You Can Donate Handmade Items.” And don’t miss the article on Reiki, which explains how this healing art can help you unlock your creativity or overcome a creative block.

Enjoy this issue, and let the stories fuel your own artistic endeavors and entrepreneurial dreams.

Cover photo credits: Bottom left - Sweetheart Pinup. Top right - City Lights Photography. Provided courtesy of Papercraft Miracles.

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NAVIGATING THE BUSINESS OF ART AND DESIGN:

WISDOM FROM THE DIRECTOR OF RISD'S CAREER CENTER

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Pattie Lee Becker pattieleebeckershop.com

Heather Guidero Jewelry heatherguidero.com

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or nearly 35 years, Kevin Jankowski has worked with students at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). As the director of the school’s career center, he has been helping soon-tobe graduates discover fulfilling careers. With years of experience advising art and design students, Kevin is an invaluable resource for those embarking on creative entrepreneurship. Our conversation covers the importance of business skills for artists and designers, the concept of collectives, the role of social media in promoting art and the broader impact of art and design on the economy.

How do you think art and design contribute to the economy, and why are they important?

We live in a world where we consume so much art and design. Yet, I think the public still feels that an art and design path or education isn’t as valid or valuable as a liberal arts direction. And it’s so mystifying because whenever I talk to families or others, I will often say, ‘Isn’t it amazing that the jewelry you’re wearing, the eyeglasses you’re wearing, the chair you’re sitting in, the artwork hanging on the wall, everything on your phone—the imagery, the apps, the design, the UI, the UX. An artist or designer has worked on every single one of those.

Business and art seem like oil and water. However, RISD's Career Center offers programming called 'The Art of Business.' Can you elaborate on it?

So, in terms of preparation for all our students, not just those who are artisans or craft artists or makers.

We feel that business skills and knowledge will always help them no matter what direction they take. There’s no doubt it can help you, especially in business itself

Isn’t it amazing that the jewelry you’re wearing, the eyeglasses you’re wearing, the chair you’re sitting in, the artwork hanging on the wall, everything on your phone—the imagery, the apps, the design, the UI, the UX. An artist or designer has worked on every single one of those.

and entrepreneurship and freelancing. The ‘Art of Business’ was formed many years ago to be the nuts and bolts. What are the core things that trip up many artists and designers? Often, it’s contracts, and contracts also mean legal forms and other things.

We have had programming on licensing and pricing issues and taxes. That has always been a hard area for creative individuals to understand the complexity of a tax system that doesn’t understand artists and designers. The tax system has a lot of vocabulary that doesn’t connect to artists and designers, and viceversa. ‘The Art of Business offers business planning.

We’ve also dealt with intellectual property (IP) and continue to expand the offerings. Marketing is another important component.

‘The Art of Business,’ we view as a collection and series of workshops and programming that are the core elements no matter what direction you want to take. They’ve been really effective. They’ve also been available to students and alumni because we realize that after you graduate, sometimes, as in life, you’re like, ‘Whoa, I really need this now.’

You mentioned that you appreciate collective business models, where artist entrepreneurs pool their resources to promote and sell their work. Can you tell us more?

As a collective, everyone has an equal voice and share in the business. They have regular meetings and take votes as a group, so there’s no traditional hierarchy where this one person is the leader. In essence, everyone is a leader, and the leadership is the collective voice. And then, the financial aspect is shared. If they have a good year, it’s all shared across everyone in the organization in the profit, as opposed to an individual at a higher level making and getting more from the profit than those below. So that’s a simplification, but I think in that sense, that’s the core of what collectives are accomplishing—equity and accessibility. When you are a collective, you are also absorbing the risk if there’s a downturn. And people share sick time. And so, if one person isn’t

Grain www.graindesign.com

Maria Polky Ceramics www.mariapolky.com

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Carrie Gustafson www.carriegustafson.com

Tracy Glover Studio

Studio Endo www.studioendo.com

tracygloverstudio.com

sick and has a lot of sick time, they can give it to someone else going through a tough period.

And that’s something that a lot of for-profit and capitalist structures don’t do. So, the collective is looking at the wholeness of how you are making and earning money. The collective is really an organism that shares in both the wealth and the challenges and the benefits of the community, and it breaks away the hierarchical barriers.

Peàn Doubulyu www.pandwglass.com

The Weaving Mill www.theweavingmill.com

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Can you share more about how artists’ studios in a shared building can function similarly to collectives?

I love going to studio tours and open studios.

What is really interesting is you get into these environments and get a glimpse of the artist’s life and making. Even though there’s an owner who’s often leasing the building, it’s fascinating how the artists get together and have open studios. What they’re bearing is the benefit of their collective making by bringing lots of people in. These places are crowded during studio tours, and people get to see and go from one maker to another. And many artisans and craftspeople have worked in that realm in one way or another over time. If you think about it, even craft shows are a collective endeavor. You’re going to go and see a lot of people together. You might not like all the work, but you’re going to bounce from one person to another and find something you’re going to love.

Do you have any advice for artists and artisans who want to sell their work?

Instagram. I have to say that it’s so critical for people to have a website or an Instagram account. I met a painter this past weekend who’s

Dahlia Kanner Studio dahliakannerstudio.com

taught at RISD…She could not say enough, and I know this from my work, how much Instagram has flipped her market, meaning she used to rely on the thought that she’d have to get her work in a gallery. The gallery controls a lot, including, sometimes, even your marketing and promotion.

In this case, she has something like 70,000 followers on Instagram. She said that all over the world, she gets commissioned; she gets requests.

It has just flipped the gallery dynamic and allowed her to deal with a much broader audience and get her work out there. So Instagram is really critical to our makers and artists and designers. Having a website is, again, important to have. And then, of course, there’s TikTok, Facebook, and all of those, but Instagram, especially.

How does RISD support its alums, who are now artisan entrepreneurs?

RISD has a very long history of alumni craft sales; they’re very well-known and outstanding. For quite some time, there’s been a website called RISDmade, where you can see the history of our RISD craft artists and artisans.

Red Rover Clothing Co. redroverclothing.com

Thanks, Kevin! Visit RISDmade at risdmade.com to learn more about RISD alums who are now artisan entrepreneurs. RISDmade profiles each artisan and links to their website, where you can make purchases directly. Several artisans on RISDmade are featured throughout this article.

Photos obtained from careercenter.risd.edu/ kevin-jankowski and www.risdmade.com.

Coral & Tusk coralandtusk.com

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10 PLACES WH DONATE HAND

KNIT AND CROCHETED GOODS Warm Up America! gives knit and crocheted blankets, hats, gloves, scarves and other accessories to those in need. All donations must be made with machine-washable yarn. Check their website for their current needs and how to donate: warmupamerica.org.

GREETING CARDS Bring Smiles to Seniors, Inc. accepts handmade greeting cards and distributes them to seniors throughout the U.S. You can find out more at www.bringsmilestoseniors.com.

GREETING CARDS Send A Smile Today mails monthly uplifting greeting cards to those battling cancer. Learn more at sendasmiletoday.org.

Credit: apeyron for iSt

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BLANKETS

BLANKETS

Welcome Blanket invites people from across the country to make blankets for new immigrants to the U.S. All types of handmade blankets—are accepted—quilted, crocheted, knitted. Learn more at www.welcomeblanket.org.

Project Linus provides handmade blankets to kids in the U.S. who are seriously ill, traumatized or otherwise in need. Find your local chapter or blanket drop-off site at www.projectlinus.org.

HERE YOU CAN DMADE ITEMS

YARN WIGS The Magic Yarn Project helps children fighting cancer by providing whimsical handmade wigs.

Think fun braids, princess hair and pirate hats.

Learn more about their donation guidelines and becoming a volunteer at themagicyarnproject.com.

STUFFED ANIMALS Smiles for Children, Project Smiles donates new stuffed animals, including handmade plushies, to emergency workers. In turn, first responders give them to children experiencing trauma, such as accident victims, crime witnessers, abuse victims and others. Visit www. projectsmile.org/smiles-for-children.

PET BLANKETS AND TOYS The Snuggles Project helps animals in shelters with cozy handmade blankets and pet toys. The organization offers patterns, including no-sew options. Learn more at snugglesproject.org.

tock by Getty Images.

KNIT & CROCHETED GARMENTS

REUSABLE SANITARY PADS

Knit the Rainbow (KtR) provides LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness with warm garments. They accept handmade hats, ear warmers, scarves, shawls, cowls, socks, gloves, sweaters and more. Yarn shops across the country serve as collection sites. Visit www.knittherainbow.org for info and patterns.

The Pachama Project provides reusable sanitary pads to refugees. The organization provides volunteer sewists with instructions, stencils and a video tutorial for making pads.

Learn more at www.thepachamamaproject.org.

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Designer Jamie Batiste on How a Breakup Inspired Her to Build a Jewelry Business

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amie Batiste is the founder of Rejected Hearts Club, a fashion brand born from a mission to take a negative experience and turn it into something positive.

Rejected Hearts Club features handcrafted necklaces, bracelets, earrings, cufflinks and clothing. Her designs have been featured in Vogue, Essence, New York Fashion Week and other publications and fashion shows. Now, let's hear more from Jamie.

What prompted you to start Rejected Hearts Club?

I started this business after a really hard breakup. One day I decided that I needed another creative outlet not only to heal myself but heal others who were hurt as well.

So, I turned a breakup into a business and regained my independence. We all have had plenty of struggles; it’s how you come out of it that matters the most. I create jewelry for men and women that transform into standout pieces that command attention and confidence. Always remember to love yourself no matter what or who hurts you.

When did you realize that you could turn your jewelry design work into a full-time business?

Once people started saying they would actually purchase my jewelry back in 2010.

Then in 2015, I showcased in New York Fashion Week with upgraded designs and never looked back.

Where did you find inspiration?

My journey as a designer is deeply rooted in a personal and emotional experience.

The inspiration for my creations took shape after a depressing breakup and even more

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so the untimely passing of my beloved brother, who had been an unwavering supporter since the inception of my brand. His memory is the driving force behind every piece I design.

In his honor, I’ve dedicated myself to crafting jewelry that allows individuals to carry cherished memories with them wherever they go. Each piece is imbued with a special significance, reflecting the unique stories and emotions of its wearer.

What sets our creations apart is not just their aesthetic appeal but also the thoughtful inclusion of a special magnetic clasp, designed for the person on the go, ensuring that their memories are always close.

Moreover, at Rejected Hearts Club, we believe in giving back to the community that has supported us. Our jewelry contributes to several foundations that hold a special place in our hearts. By intertwining personal stories, innovative design, and a commitment to philanthropy, we hope to create not just jewelry but meaningful connections that resonate with the essence of the Rejected Hearts Club.

How do you apply that inspiration to your work?

I believe everything comes in threes. So, you will notice most of our pieces have three strands or three hearts, which goes with our ‘Story of 3 hearts’ motto— the heart you gave away, the heart that was rejected and the heart we give back to you. We

implemented magnetic clasps to our necklaces and bracelets to stick to simplicity for the girl on the go. For our classic looks, our hematite beaded necklaces and bracelets are staple pieces that fit a classic style.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

Beyond the world of design, there’s a tapestry of diverse experiences that make up who I am. From an early age, I ventured into the dynamic realm of radio, starting my on-air journey at the age of 14. Those formative years in broadcasting not only honed my communication skills but also ignited a passion for storytelling that continues to influence my creative endeavors today.

But that’s not the only

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I draw strength from the memory of my brother, who was not only my biggest supporter but a constant source of inspiration.

unexpected facet of my life. For five years, I delved into the world of bowling, proudly considering myself a champion on the lanes. It’s a side of me that often surprises those who know me primarily for my design work. In addition to my bowling prowess, I’ve also made appearances in several films, adding a touch of the cinematic to my eclectic journey.

Interestingly, my style evolution is another intriguing chapter. A self-proclaimed tomboy for many years, my fashion landscape transformed dramatically with the iconic movie ‘Clueless.’

Since then, you’ll rarely find me without heels— so much so that I’ve etched my love for stilettos permanently with a tattoo.

Life’s twists and turns have not only shaped my personal narrative but have also left an indelible mark on the unique creations that define the essence of our brand, Rejected Hearts Club As creatives, we can continuously create and refine our art. How do you handle perfectionism?

It’s hard to find a balance, especially as a creative and entrepreneur. Once you realize you are human and we all make mistakes, it’s okay to take a step back to balance out being perfect.

When it comes to running a creative business, what keeps you going through the ups and downs?

I established this brand during a challenging period as a way to uplift myself and others.

Our ethos revolves around the transformative power of turning negatives into positives. The inception of Rejected Hearts Club was born from

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a tumultuous phase, marked by a difficult breakup and the unexpected passing of my dear brother shortly afterward.

In the face of adversity, I draw strength from the memory of my brother, who was not only my biggest supporter but a constant source of inspiration. His unwavering belief in my capabilities fuels my determination to navigate the highs and lows of running a creative business. Each day, I am reminded that he wouldn’t want to see me give up; instead, he continues to be the driving force behind my pursuit of a successful brand.

The resilience instilled by these experiences forms the backbone of our brand philosophy. It’s a daily commitment to transform pain into purpose, guided by the enduring spirit of my brother, whose belief in me echoes

through the essence of every creation at Rejected Hearts Club.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in putting their work out into the world but feels vulnerable?

Go for it. You don’t know if you don’t try. The worst you can get in life is a 'no,' and then you move on. It’s okay. I get no’s and reject all the time and never stop. You just need that one ‘yes.’

Has someone ever criticized your work, and how did you handle it?

I’ve been at in-person shows and have people walk by our booth and make a smirk at our name without really getting the know the brand. Once they hear the story, that is, how you turn a negative into a positive, they change their attitude about it.

cause and why?

Yes. We give back on the purchase of selected pieces.

Our Aaron Michael bracelet is dedicated to my brother, and a portion of the proceeds goes to The Myositis Association. A portion of our proceeds from our Violet collection goes towards the Lupus Foundation of America.

What brings you joy?

Businesswise, it’s when I see people wearing our pieces and being happy inside and out.

Personal-wise, it’s making other people smile and traveling.

Thanks, Jamie! Rejected Hearts Club jewelry is available at rejectedheartsclub.com.

Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

Are you are passionate about a

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STITCHING SUCCESS MEET PROFESSIONAL TAILOR SHAELYNN HANING WHO'S MAKING MODERN SEWING LESSONS AVAILBLE TO ALL ON YOUTUBE

In the world of sewing, Shaelynn Haning’s dynamic personality shines brightly.

As a professional tailor with a thriving tailoring shop, Shaelynn not only stitches garments with precision but also teaches others how to sew through her YouTube channel, 'The Sew Show with Shae.'

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From the basics of sewing to the intricacies of industrial sewing machines, Shaelynn brings a modern twist to the art of sewing, proudly stating, 'This is not your grandma’s sewing channel!'

In this insightful interview, Shaelynn shares her path to success, her passion for skilled labor training and how she’s turned her love for sewing into both a fulfilling career and a means to inspire others. Join us as we unravel the threads of Shaelynn’s creative journey.

How did you get into sewing?

My dad is a large-scale metal sculptor. As a kid, I worked with him to build steel, copper and bronze sculptures between three and 10 feet tall, inspired by nature, cosmic events and abstract movement. As I got older, I wanted to venture into a field that would allow me to apply my artistic vision to meet an everyday need. That’s when sewing came into my life. I already fundamentally understood the impact of threedimensional art flow and this allowed me to see the body as my new canvas for the work I wanted to create. Then it was just a matter of learning to use a few basic stitches on the sewing machine and I was off to the races!

At what point did you realize that you could start a business?

I was working at a fulfilling, though moderately low-paying, job at a non-profit and started taking on clothing alterations work from friends and family in the evenings. As word spread that I would occasionally hem pants and dresses for people I knew, I began getting calls and texts from people I didn’t know,

requesting fittings and more extensive alterations. I became curious about exactly how many hems it would take to replace my current salary and made a simple calculation. I came to find that the amount the services I would need to perform to match my current pay was actually pretty reasonable. Once I knew my goal, it was almost impossible not to make the jump and go full-time on my own!

How do you define success for your creative business?

I define success by answering two questions: 1. Am I generating enough income to pay my team and myself a comfortable and livable wage?

2. Do I enjoy the work that I do more often than not?

I find that if my financial needs are met, it relieves a huge burden and allows me to better examine the actual work that I perform and analyze whether it is giving me the purpose and fulfillment creatively, physically, and psychologically that I am looking to achieve.

It is important to note that these two aspects are hand and glove for me, and one cannot exist without the other. Day to day I may make more or less money or be more or less happy, so it is also important to check in with these aspects on a monthly and annual basis more so than a daily or weekly basis. I always try to give myself time and space to analyze the numbers and my feelings before making changes or new big decisions.

I also regularly insert creative outlets that do not necessarily

generate income but bring me joy, such as creating a YouTube channel, 'The Sew Show with Shae,' where I have the opportunity to film tons of the procedures I perform every day to help others learn to do the same.

Where do you find inspiration?

That’s an easy one: no one has decided to live their lives totally naked out in the open, so I have the huge advantage of finding inspiration everywhere on every body I see. From the grocery store to the airport, to the sidewalk I love seeing what people choose to wear, where they choose to wear it and even why they might have picked those pieces for that outfit. I barely even shop on my own anymore. I’m much more likely to see something modeled in real life on a real person and then just go up to them and ask them all about it!

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone offered when you first started your business?

When you own your own business, you call all the shots, and, boy, does that get exhausting! It seems like that would be the greatest freedom, but it also means you have all the freedom in the world to completely ruin your awesome idea. The advice I wish I would have received is that you will never avoid the mistakes you are definitely going to make, just don’t let them all keep you up every night. They won’t ruin you—a lot of hard things can and will happen but you will keep going and the business will survive.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to begin selling their art or product?

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Create your revenue formula and own it! For me, that was the ‘pant hem’ calculation: how many pants do I need to hem in order to match the money I currently make (through W2 employment)? Once I had that number, I could then make an educated decision about leaving my stable job and going full-time as an entrepreneur. Even if the numbers aren’t good, that’s not the end. Figure out what you need to do to fill in that revenue gap. Then once you’ve got your plan, head toward that goal!

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I’m a huge 'Star Trek' fan and I find a lot of creative solutions to people-oriented scenarios in the episodes. 'Star Trek' did such an incredible job portraying real relationships between people including conflicts and resolutions that help me see situations and perspectives in a different and broader light.

Creatives can continuously create and refine. How do you handle perfectionism?

This one is going to be very blunt: Just get over it.

No, it’s not easy, but it is necessary if you want to grow, succeed and have a team by

your side. I have an incredibly talented staff, and no one sews anything like anyone else. We all travel different paths toward the same goal. Embrace the fact that everyone is going to perform differently. We aren’t all accountants after all, we are craftsmen and women—being different is the point!

One other way that I combated perfectionism head-on was by beginning to film my sewing projects and alterations procedures. As the years go on, I am always updating and changing the way I perform— even procedures that I’ve done thousands of times.

Having the videos to show my progress, even if the process has changed considerably, helps me

remember that neither way is wrong; the old and the new are both important and can co-exist.

What’s something that surprised you about running a creative business?

Making your passion into your career does not actually kill your love for it. I think many people really fear the destruction of their love for their craft in committing to it as a career, but I have found that just like any other relationship, there are ups and downs. You will have to be flexible and resilient, but you can and will continue to love your craft.

What advice would you give to someone about handling the highs and lows of running a business?

Some of the best advice I’ve ever received is; Nothing is ever as good or as bad as you think it is. Meditating on this advice has helped me smooth out the tenuous emotions that come with running a business and working with dynamic and creative people.

Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

Of course! Everyday! In my line of work, I’m always guessing at what people want; personal

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I find that not a day goes by without hearing someone say, ‘Sewing is a dying art.’ But here’s the thing: it wouldn’t be dying if there was still a way to learn. preference is so specific, and in the end, what is most important is that I help each person achieve their goal, not my own.

entrepreneurship but creating tons of alternate paths to successful, purposeful work is still the true American dream.

My clients are going to be wearing and living in the clothes I make or alter for them, so all that matters is that they look and feel their best. Understanding that my professional opinion is only one opinion helps me moderate my emotional attachment to it and gives me more freedom to help clients get what they want from my services.

In Oklahoma and Midwest in general, we put a huge cultural emphasis on acquiring tangible skills that lead to resilient careers, and as a state we operate one of the largest skilled labor training programs in the country. To find out more, check it out at oklahoma.gov/careertech.html.

As a funny but true additional side story: I perform my own maintenance on all of my industrial machinery. This is significant because, as a woman, people always assume that my husband must do all the ‘hard, dirty work’ for me, which is categorically untrue, and I do not mind correcting them!

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

I am extremely passionate about skilled labor training for individuals from all walks of life.

I believe that not only creating pathways to

In addition, I find that not a day goes by without hearing someone say, ‘Sewing is a dying art.’ But here’s the thing: it wouldn’t be dying if there was still a way to learn. The opportunities for learning to sew have become incredibly limited in the last few decades and for something that impacts every moment of our day, i.e. being clothed—that seems unacceptable. Teaching others the craft has become increasingly more important to me, and I love getting to spend time every week filming the alterations we perform in the shop so that others might have the chance to learn on their own. We post new instructional videos every single week on YouTube.

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you use for your business that you just love?

We literally couldn’t run without ordering supplies weekly from Wawak! They carry everything we need from thread to ironing gear. Another huge necessity: Fiskars. All our scissors, every size and style, are Fiskars brand—they are high quality, affordable and always nice and sharp!

Thanks, Shaelynn! You can watch hersewing videos at www.youtube.com/@ thesewshowwithshae. Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

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How Beth McLacklan Conjured Up Metalsmithing Magic to Heal From Lyme Disease other metalworking techniques,' Beth said.

Although Beth’s passion for metalworking began as a therapeutic escape from her illness, it quickly grew into something much more. The allure of weathered metal and its hidden stories became her muse, fueling her creativity and sparking curiosity in others. With each piece she creates, Beth aims to capture the essence of mystery and possibility, inviting those who wear it to embark on a journey of exploration and imagination. Read on to learn more about Beth and the hidden treasures that lie beneath the surface.

After experimenting with making jewelry as a hobby, when did you realize that you could launch a business?

When I began attending markets and started selling. My aesthetic is my aesthetic, but to have someone else understand, appreciate, and purchase your process and means of expression is when my artwork becomes a business.

Credit: Meredith Brower Photography. Courtesy of Beth McLacklan.

B

eth McLacklan’s journey into metalsmithing and jewelry design started during a difficult time in her life, when she was recovering from Lyme disease and four other tickborne illnesses. It was then that her mother would bring her boxes of costume jewelry from auctions, providing her with a source of comfort and distraction. 'I would spend my days digging, sorting, designing, constructing and healing. Days with costume jewelry led me to pursue soldering and

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How do you define success for your business?

Someone seeing my aesthetic, hearing me as an artist, and wanting to own it. I will never forget when I was at a market in Boston, and a man who spoke little English said to me, ‘Your work, your work is old, like antique?’ I said, ‘Oh no, I make all of this.’

He said, ‘Good job.’ We couldn’t fully communicate verbally, but he saw my work as an artist, he felt my aesthetic, and he heard the voice of my jewelry with his eyes—the best compliment ever.

Where do you find inspiration?

Sunken ships and long-lost treasures—worn metal—metal that has changed color and shape, vintage pearls and chains, stones that are ocean’esque, bravery, grace and that which belongs to the sea.

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started your business?

Keep your tax stuff organized! The artist in me

needs to find the accountant in me. The ability to bounce between being creative and the responsibilities of owning and upholding a business are equally important. Setting aside time to do due diligence can save a lot of aggravation at the end of the tax season.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start selling their art or product?

Go for it — go for it fully—don’t hold back; allow yourself to be vulnerable and brave, showcasing the uniqueness of you and your creative product.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I jumped a horse over a four-foot fence while I was riding and living in Germany in my early 20s. Though I had ridden since a young age, it was probably my second time jumping a horse; I sprained my thumb and galloped on.

As creatives, we can continuously refine our art.

How do you handle perfectionism?

As a work in progress, a constant self-reminder that perfectionism has a place, but so do mistakes,

failure and letting things lie. The process of making art and finishing art does not have an oven timer.

Stepping away from a project can be just as productive as the process of creation—always need a little yin and yang.

What’s something that surprised you about running a business?

How much support and opportunities there are for creative entrepreneurs.

What advice would you give to someone about handling the highs and lows of running a creative business?

It is part of the job description. Keep your mind steady and focused on your goal, be gentle with yourself, align with those who will rally for you and remember that running a business is filled with endless possibilities. The ups and downs are everpresent, but it’s the middle I try to hold onto as a means of self-sustaining.

Has someone ever criticized your work?

How did you handle it?

I remember hearing someone scoff at the price

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of a bracelet. Internally, I got defensive; externally, I smiled. It is hard to hear criticism or comments that may feel hurtful. I try to remind myself that my perception is my perception, and, equally so, someone else’s perception is their perception. It is what makes the world go round, the understanding that not all views are alike. Hold your head up, smile, remember who you are and let the world go round.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

An organization that I am passionate about is the Brain Injury Association of RI. Having family

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members who have dealt with traumatic brain injuries, as well as my own walk with the effects of neurological tick-borne diseases, I understand the importance of brain health, the need to educate and the much-needed support that organizations, such as BIA of RI, provide.

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you use for your business that you just love?

I thoroughly enjoy using Harrison Casting in Johnston, RI for my casting needs!

What brings you joy?

The grit and grace of life— my youngest child’s Lego builds, my daughter’s amazing apple crisp, my middle child’s impish grin, my husband’s arms, my mom’s voice, the smell of my horse and my dad’s can-do-anything attitude.

Hiking mountains, taking off on a mountain bike after a long climb, peepers in the spring, dimes I find unexpectedly, the smell of peonies and making art.

I like sushi too.

Thanks, Beth! You can learn more about the jewelry artist at www.elizabethleeartistry.com.

Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

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From Vertigo and Motion Sickness to Victory:

MEET MOMMABEAR ORGANICS FOUNDER SORAYA BENITEZ

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nnovative businesses sometimes arise from personal challenges. After experiencing a severe bout of motion sickness on a cruise while pregnant, Soraya Benitez was determined to find a solution. This led her to develop an organic lollipop to soothe nausea. Now, let's discover more about Soraya's entrepreneurship journey.

difficult trip. The motion sickness was unbearable.

I could not take anything and the only options in the gift shop were motion sickness bands. I was determined to create something that would work not only for moms going through morning sickness but for anyone suffering from motion, travel or vertigo sickness.

Tell us about MommaBear Organics.

MommaBear Organics is a women-led company dedicated to providing organic lollipops and suckers for common ailments. We have two lollipops; one is for nausea and upset stomach while the other is for cough and sore throat. Not only do our lollipops consist of real ingredients (lemon, ginger, honey and elderberry), they are all organic, non-GMO, dairy-free, gluten-free and kosher, making them safe for most people, ages 3 and up, to consume.

At what point did you realize you could start a business?

When I first looked at developing my product, I did a lot of research to see what options were available in the market. There are many companies offering products full of bad-for-you ingredients that are also difficult to pronounce. Since I became a mom, I have seen my consumer tastes and preferences change drastically. As a consumer, I demand cleaner products and transparency from the brands I engage with. Additionally, there are several medical options for motion sickness. Unfortunately, many are not recommended by doctors during pregnancy, and motion bands do not work for everyone. This told me there is a real need for new products in the market.

How did you get started creating your product?

Our first product, our nausea and upset stomach lollipop, was developed because I suffered from terrible vertigo and motion sickness on a cruise while pregnant with my second child. It was a

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What advice would you give to someone about handling the highs and lows of running a business?

In addition to having a strong mentor, have a friend or family member that you can lean on during times of struggle. There is consistency in inconsistency while running a business. It helps to have a support system to get through it.

How do you define success for your creative business?

As my business has grown, our demographic has grown beyond what I could ever have imagined.

What started out as a nausea solution during pregnancy has turned into a solution for patients undergoing chemotherapy, those with the common cold or flu and more. The ability to help people feel better is what success is all about at MommaBear Organics.

Where do you find inspiration?

My kids are my inspiration.

The products that we put in our bodies matter and make a difference. As a mom, it is important to me that my kids are exposed to clean products without side effects.

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone gave you when you first started your business?

Have patience. Two things are true: everything is going to cost more than you think. And, everything is going to take longer than you think. Just be patient and stick with it.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to begin selling their art or product?

Find a mentor. A good mentor is someone you admire and respect. Everyone needs a mentor to help guide you.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I am a big-time yogi. I give yoga credit for the peace and balance in my fast-paced life.

As creatives, we can continuously create and refine our art. How do you handle perfectionism?

Know that as you get started, you will learn as you go which will cause you to modify your product. So, do not hold on to the idea that something has to be perfect right away because chances are, there will be a lot of trial, error and data collection before you can really perfect your craft.

What’s something that surprised you about running a creative business?

How many times I hear the word 'no.' Nine times out of 10 a door will close on you and there will not be an easy answer.

You have to find creativity and workarounds to get what you want.

Has someone ever criticized your work?

All the time. Try to look at criticism as constructive feedback rather than criticism. It can only make you better if you listen and are not closed off.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

The Nature Conservatory is a cause I am passionate about.

In addition to donating to the Nature Conservatory, I make sure our processes and the materials we use are as bio-friendly as possible.

Can you share a tool that you use for your business that you just love—one that makes running your business easier?

Slack is a must-have for MommaBear Organics. It is how I can quickly and efficiently communicate with my team.

What brings you joy?

My children. They are my joy and inspiration.

Thanks, Soraya! You can learn more about MamaBear Organics at mommabearusa.com.

Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

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CREATING PAPER MAGIC: MEET PAPER ARTIST AND ENTREPRENEUR JANNA WILLOUGHBY-LOHR

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anna Willoughby-Lohr is an artist and founder of Papercraft Miracles, an ecofriendly handmade paper art company. One of the things that’s awesome about Janna is that she loves sharing her knowledge with people, especially fellow entrepreneurs. In her interview, Janna tells us how she built a thriving company that now employs others. She also offers tips for small business owners.

people together. What does that mean? We make decorative handmade papers and stationery of all different kinds, plantable papers, things like that.

We also make a lot of paper flowers that look so real, you have to go touch them. And we do handbound books and book repair, and we also make a lot of plantable seed bombs in different shapes and colors and seed mixes that grow when you plant them in the grass among other things.

Tell us about Papercraft Miracles.

Papercraft Miracles makes magical things out of paper that make people happy and bring

Every day is different, and we do many custom orders. Right now, we’re doing flowers for an entire wedding. We’re working on packaging for a local company that makes soap. I’m restoring an antique photo album from the 1800s, and we’re making custom corporate swag for somebody who works for a pest company all at the same time. That’s what our days are. It’s always something different every couple of weeks. It’s a totally different project and so much creative problem-solving and brainstorming.

How did you get started with your business?

It’s kind of a long story, but when I first went away to college, I knew that I wanted to be an artist and a creative, but I didn’t know how to do that officially. And I thought I was going to be a poet, so that’s what I went to school for. And when I got to my college campus at Warren Wilson College in North Carolina, I immediately had this creative vibe. I started taking all of these random art classes, and I saw that they had paper-making and bookbinding classes. At the end of my freshman year, I met with my advisor, and I said, ‘These are all the classes I took, what major am I working toward?

And he goes, ‘Those are all electives, so nothing.’

And because he was really awesome, he suggested a major called integrative studies, where I was able to make my own major integrating entrepreneurial business and creative art.

And I spent four years figuring out how to make money with art by taking entrepreneurship classes, business classes, business law, managerial

Credit: Sweetheart Pinup.

Provided courtesy of Papercraft Miracles.

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Credit: Sweetheart Pinup.

Provided courtesy of Papercraft Miracles.

finance—all that kind of stuff to learn how to run a business.

I also took all the different art classes, but I made sure to integrate a whole bunch of social work classes to learn how to work with people. You have to learn how to run a team and manage people, but you also need to learn how to communicate and work with people who are your clients.

Why was it important to you to become an entrepreneur?

My junior year really solidified a lot of my why for having a business. I lost my mom at the beginning of my junior year and became an instant adult and inherited her house that was falling apart with no will 900 miles away from where I was going to school and all sorts of things. And then four months later, on her birthday, my dorm burnt to the ground with all of my stuff. So it was a lot.

Instead of quitting and going home and not doing my major and not following what I love or doing any of that, I decided to really dig my heels in. I told myself that life is super short, and I need to do what I love now. Because you never know if you’re going to have tomorrow; you could wake up in a burning building at four o’clock in the morning.

people who were watching the show would cry.

What did you do next?

My genre of art is making artist books and interactive artwork and stuff like that. So, I started making all of these artist books about my relationship with my mom and grief and trauma and heartbreak and all of this stuff that I was going through.

And I started sharing them with people who I was going to school with—professors and other students. I would do this show-and-tell storytelling kind of thing with the books, and the

I had so many people tell me that after that experience, they were a different person, that they had a different outlook on life and the world and their place in it. Making these books helped me to heal and deal with all this stuff and to really move through the grief process instead of avoiding it. I liked sharing with other people and having my healing experience be the thing that helped other people to heal through things. So that’s why I called it Papercraft Miracles. It saved me when I

literally had nothing.

By the time I graduated school, I had built my own website. This is a very long time ago, so you couldn’t buy anything on it, but I had my own little gallery website, a print catalog and some business cards. I had bought my domain name, and I had everything all set and ready in a business plan ready to start a business in 2004.

So that’s how I officially started it.

It has the same name that it did then, and I did it as a very small side gig for 12 years after that until I had my first son. My job at the time didn’t pay enough to cover

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healthcare and daycare. So, I stayed home and did the crap out of my book thing, and here I am.

How did you find customers in the beginning?

It’s funny because I started doing blank journals and stationery sets, like handmade paper, handmade envelopes, that kind of stuff while I was still in school, and the school had its own artisan store that wasn’t located on the campus.

Part of my major was to work in this store and help them fix their business plan, so they didn’t close. So, I sold my things in the store while I worked there. Being able to have an outlet to put my things out where people could see them before I even graduated school was awesome.

And it was consignment style, so I didn’t make any money unless I sold them to people while I was working there. So, I got really good at the hustle part of it and selling the story to people of how these things were made and why I made them.

Since then, everywhere I go, I strike up conversations with random people all over the place and they’re like, ‘oh, what do you do?’ I tell them that I make magical stuff out of paper. And it just opens up this lovely little can of worms where people remember meeting me.

One of the books that I had as one of my textbooks for my major was 'Self-Promotion for the Creative Person.' But one of the first things it says in that book is that in order to be a successful artist, you have to be your own biggest fan. And if you don’t love your art and you don’t think it’s worthwhile and valuable, why would anybody else think that it is? People aren’t just going to hunt you down to buy your art that they don’t know you make. So, I really took that to heart when I was doing my study, and I started going everywhere I could go and bringing stuff with me.

People didn’t know that they wanted or needed any of the things that I made until I told them they exist. Most people don’t know this kind of

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Credit: City Lights Photography. Provided courtesy of Papercraft Miracles.

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Really work hard on being your own biggest fan.

And if you post stuff on social media and nobody likes it, who cares? Do it again...try something else.

Posting on social media is a really great way to start putting yourself out there without having those face-to-face interactions. People like to do business with people, and I hardly ever sell my products to people. stuff exists. So I guess that was my main tactic was to just meet more people and tell everybody that I met about my work. I’ve also taken a lot of tips from a job I had going door to door.

The main thing that they teach you while you’re doing a job like that is to master your elevator pitch. You have 15 seconds before someone’s going to slam the door in your face. It’s the exact same way with everything in the art world. And I just got really good at that. So, that’s how I find my customers.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to sell their work?

Really work hard on being your own biggest fan. And if you post stuff on social media and nobody likes it, who cares? Do it again. Post something else—try something else. Posting on social media is a really great way to start putting yourself out there without having those face-toface interactions. People like to do business with people, and I hardly ever sell my products to people. I just tell people who I am. So, I think doing a lot of just being really genuine and sharing

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your experience of being an artist, and you can even celebrate the four people who might like your post on social media. There’s a lot of those Instagram videos that are like, oh, this is for those four people who always like my post—do it for them. Because those people know people, and they might say, ‘Hey, I know this person who makes this amazing art. Check it out.’

And the more that you show up, and the more that you put yourself out there, the more people are going to know who you are. And they always say business is a numbers game. Art is also a numbers game. If you only know five people and only five people know that you make art, you’re never going to sell any, because those five people are probably also artists, and they’re broke.

So put yourself out there, just do it as often as humanly possible.

And if you look at my Instagram, you will see all sorts of pictures of me in my bathrobe drinking coffee early in the morning, tired as hell because my kids were up all night. That’s my real life.

I’m not shoving all the crap out of the way in the background every single picture. And I think people really appreciate that.

They like knowing that I’m a real person who has faults, who deals with grief, and I’m really super honest with people, especially in my social media. And I don’t know, I think that pretending that everything is perfect stops people from doing a lot of stuff.

And, I’ve worked with a business coach who really drilled it into my head every single time I talked to her that done is better than perfect.

What surprises you about running a creative business?

In general, I think it’s that there is no top of the mountain when you’re running a business.

Things start going really well and you’re growing, and you’re like, yeah, now I’m there. You’re never there. You can work really hard and achieve that goal, but then there’s always going to be another goal. There isn’t a summit where you can just stop working so hard. Nope, that’s not going to happen. The bigger your company gets, the harder you’re going to have to work to

Credit: Stephen Gabris. Provided courtesy of Papercraft Miracles.

that I sell to want to buy something that is both meaningful, beautiful and personalized.

continue that level of success.

How do you cope with the ups and downs of running a business?

Just the fact that every morning I get up and I get to go do something totally different and fun every single day. I’m never rumbling about having to go to work, and there are many, many weeks that I don’t get paid. I pay my people before I pay myself a lot of times because I have the financial privilege to be able to do so. I’m going to totally recognize that a lot of artists don’t have that. My husband is amazing, and when I quit my job, we made that sacrifice that we are going to spend less as a family because me making money while being the primary caregiver for the kids was not a guarantee.

So, for me, having my staff and making sure that they’re there—I’ve spent a lot of time and effort and money training them to make all the stuff that we make. So, I want them to stay. I know I’m going to stay regardless, but I want them to stay so I do make sure that I pay them. And even if it’s a day that’s slow and we are not making a ton of money or we don’t have a whole bunch of projects on deck that we’re working on, having my team inspires me to work really hard because every day that I’m not bringing in lots of revenue is a day closer to not being able to pay them. These people are relying on me to buy groceries, so let’s roll. Let’s drill up some more info.

All of the things that I make are in the intersection of unique and meaningful. I did a bunch of interviews with people in my target market, and that’s how I figured out what they were searching for. I asked them to tell me what they look for when buying a special gift for someone. And, over and over again, all the people I talked to said ‘unique’ and ‘meaningful.’ That’s the language my target market uses when they’re searching on Google for a special gift. So I started putting the words unique and meaningful all over my website in different places. Not just random, but in the language that I use on social media and when I’m speaking to people in person. That’s the story that I’m telling people; it’s the heart of my business. When people are searching on Google for something that’s unique and meaningful, they show up on my website.

Thanks, Janna! You can learn more about Papercraft Miracles at www.papercraftmiracles.com.

What advice would you give to someone starting a creative business?

Know your target audience. My company makes all sorts of different things. In general, I have a bunch of different target markets. The marketing that I would do for a wedding is not going to work well for people who want to buy corporate swag, right?

If you have lots of target markets, you have to do different marketing. But in general, the people Credit: Stephen Gabris.

Provided courtesy of Papercraft Miracles.

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Empowering Women, One Step at a Time: Meet Shoemaker and Designer Yvonne Liao

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rowing up Yvonne Liao longed to break free from societal norms and express herself fully through fashion. A pivotal trip to Hong Kong when she was a teenager ignited a passion for shoes, and Yvonne discovered her love for bold footwear that mirrored her vibrant personality.

The shoemaker takes us through her journey, from where she first learned how to design shoes through starting her business, where she creates footwear from plant-based materials.

Tell us about Yvonne Liao footwear.

I am currently in the process of designing and creating my own footwear prototypes for my capsule collection comprising of sandals and flats. These fun and colorful shoes are made with plant-based materials such as pineapple and cactus and will be launched this year.

In addition to the capsule

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collection, I also customize wedding shoes for brides-to-be on their special day.

Designed by women for women, our vibrant and distinctive footwear celebrates the inner rebellious nature in women who are not afraid to stand out of the crowd and venture into paths less traveled.

How did you get started designing shoes?

Growing up in a conservative society I always felt like I had to conform to invisible societal norms, such as modest dress codes that did not allow me to fully express myself.

When I was 15, I visited my best friend in Hong Kong. His father ran a shoe factory in China and for the first time in my life, I got to see first-hand how shoes

were made in a factory and was fascinated with the sounds of machines and smell of leather.

The best part of the trip was full access to the sample closet where I could take home as many shoes as I wanted.

Instinctively, I gravitated towards outrageously colorful shoes because they felt just like me; other people could criticize that my clothing was too revealing, but they could never say the same thing about my gold pointy stilettos or neon green platform sandals. Since then, I fell in love with shoes as they reflect my inner rebellious nature and allow me to express my fashion sensibility.

Later when I started working in the fashion industry in New York, I felt very uninspired by the shoes that people were wearing on the

streets as they were all in boring and constricting shades of black, grey, brown and white that lacked personality and color. I often thought about how cool it would be if I could design and make my own shoes for women who, like me, want to express their unique personalities.

This idea led me to learn shoemaking in 2018 where I started designing and creating a fun, colorful collection of mules, sandals and stilettos for the rebellious badass women who can authentically themselves and stand out from the crowd when they step into a pair of my shoes.

At what point did you realize that you start a business?

Strangers are always curious to know where I buy my shoes. They become even more intrigued when I tell them that I designed and made them by hand.

With the encouragement from my family and friends, I made the decision to start designing my shoe collection and turn my passion into business.

How do you define success for your business?

For me, success is when I add joy and value to my customers’ lives. I get a deep sense of satisfaction knowing that customers love my shoes, like when I created a pair of sandals for my girlfriend or customized a pair of wedding shoes for my colleague. The joy that lights up their faces upon receiving my shoes is quite rewarding as I know that they will have a lot of fun wearing them.

Success for me also means doing my best and giving my all in every area of my business regardless of the outcome. Growing up I used to get very stressed before receiving my examination results.

My mother, being the wise woman she is, always tells me that so long as I put my best foot forward, I have nothing to regret or worry regardless of the outcomes. I know I will fail many times in various areas of my business, but I am successful because I tried my best.

Where do you find inspiration?

I often find design inspirations in the cities I live in, such as New York and Singapore. The towering geometric shapes and bright lights of skyscrapers, coupled with the cultural diversity of people from all walks of life bring bursts of color, energy and excitement, so I try to incorporate these elements into my footwear designs.

I also get inspired by the types of footwear that people are wearing on the streets and often draw color influences from my cultural background. I am especially drawn to a gold, silver and red palette, so I always try to incorporate these colors into my designs.

My friends like to affectionately call my designs ‘very Yvonne.’ I think the strong attraction to red and gold stemmed from the meanings these colors symbolize in Chinese culture. Red symbolizes fire, good fortune

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and joy. It is the color of happiness and often used in joyous celebrations. Gold symbolizes wealth, royalty, opulence and prosperity. These colors are often used together to spread the message of good fortune and prosperity for every woman who wears a pair of Yvonne Liao shoes.

Who is your target customer? Where do they live and what do they do for a living? It is fun to create something that you like; but a business at the end of the day needs to generate income. That means that your products need to meet your customers’ needs to sustain your business.

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started your business?

I wish people would tell me that I will face a lot of rejection along the way. I am a startup footwear company and am still learning not to feel defeated after multiple rejections, such as not winning in business plan competitions and getting approval for business grants and loans.

When I first started making my own shoes, I thought only about what designs I like and what I like to wear, and I love wearing pointed pumps and high heels, even though they were really uncomfortable. It was only after some research that I discovered that many of my target customers actually love wearing comfortable shoes that allow them to go anywhere and do many things, and that definitely means no high heels for long periods.

What advice would you give someone wanting to begin selling their art or creative product?

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I think people are always surprised when I share with them that prior to moving to the United States, I was a schoolteacher teaching 15 and 16-year-old students English, geography, and social studies.

They are always curious to know why I made such a drastic career move from education to fashion.

Creatives can continuously create and refine. How do you handle perfectionism?

There is a Chinese saying that goes, 'A three-minute performance is actually equal to 10 years of practice off the stage.' I learned that through shoemaking and making my own prototypes that the perfect pair of shoes comes only after many, many practices.

I had to make and remake my own prototypes because they rarely come out perfect the first time.

I accept that perfectionism comes after many failed attempts and there is always a lesson from every failure.

What’s something that surprised you about running a creative business?

That a lot of times it is not creative! There are a lot of things that I have to do on my own and learn to figure out. For example, I had to learn how to write a business plan from scratch even though I did not know anything about financial projections. But I learned and completed a business plan for the New York Public Library Start-Up competition last year and was one of the 10 finalists.

What advice would you give to someone about handling the highs and lows of running a business?

One advice is to not dwell in failures too long and let them run you down. There are many things that I need to take care of as a fashion startup, and I have to learn to accept failure as it is, move on quickly and

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direct my attention to the next immediate task on hand.

Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

Of course! I learned to filter out what feedback is beneficial for my business and tune out the noise that is not helpful. People are always going to have their own opinions, but what matters is staying true to myself and doing what is right for my business.

What’s a cause you are passionate about and why?

I am passionate about dogs because they bring so much joy and teach us so much about life.

I adopted my 80-pound mutt Momo from Badass Brooklyn in 2019 and continue to support this organization because it rescues

dogs from the high-kill animal shelters in the south and brings them to New York where people can foster and adopt them. I love the community of people who work in this organization because they truly care about the dogs they rescue and want to help them find forever homes.

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you use for your business that you just love—one that makes running your business a bit easier?

I would highly recommend Brooklyn Shoe Space. This is where I made my first pair of mules and many other shoes before I decided to start my footwear business. The founder is a wonderful lady who has great knowledge and love for shoes. This is definitely a place where you want to start if you

are interested in learning more about shoemaking.

What brings you joy?

I am joyful when I get to sit on my favorite couch and sip a cup of hot coffee on weekend mornings. This is my Zen moment, where I get to relax in the morning silence and just enjoy my coffee without any distractions. I also love daily morning runs with Momo, my 80-pound dog, who is my best running buddy in the world.

Thanks, Yvonne. You can learn more about her work at yvonneliaonyc.com.

Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

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FROM 'PROJECT RUNWAY' TO WEDDING AISLE: MEET LAURIE UNDERWOOD OF LAURY BRIDE

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aurie Underwood, a 'Project Runway' alum and fashion visionary, is the designer behind Laury Bride, a custom and ready-towear bridalwear line. Before going all in on designing for brides, Laurie produced chic women’s workwear under her Wanda Grace label. Though wedding gowns were Laurie’s passion, landing her first bride gave her the confidence to focus on bridal. "I realized that if someone believed in me for their big day, I should, in turn, believe in myself to build a business out of what I love," Laurie says.

Black woman in her entirety, acknowledging her heritage, aspirations and unique essence.'

Several years in, Laurie continues to pour her heart into designing gowns that celebrate 'the modern

When did you discover your love of fashion?

I’ve always been interested in fashion since the age

There’s another element to the designer’s atelier.

Laurie’s experience planning her 2021 nuptials inspired her to create a luxe collection of robes, lounge sets and candles. After all the wedding planning, Laurie wanted to come home to a calm and luxurious space. Her vision became Laury Home. Read more in Laurie’s interview, where she shares insight and advice.

of nine. I started my previous line, Wanda Grace, which was a fashion label, and in 2015, I ended it to begin focusing on bridal wear.

At what point did you realize that you could start a business?

I realized this when I had my first bridal customer.

I realized that if someone believed in me for their big day, I should, in turn, believe in myself to build a business out of what I love.

How do you define success for your business?

Success for my creative business is knowing who my customer is and never compromising on the quality and uniqueness of my bridal designs, ensuring that each piece reflects the beauty and individuality of the brides I serve.

Where do you find inspiration?

I actually find inspiration in fashion. I have a collection of fashion muses that I look to during my process as if I am designing wedding gowns for them.

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started your business?

I’d say bet more on yourself. If you believe in you, so will others.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start selling their art or product?

Become a student of your craft and business, especially in marketing. There are tons of resources available for one to become a master student at what they love and make a lucrative business out of it.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I have a dual role as a bridal designer/entrepreneur and a marketer, in which I currently contract my marketing services out to a nonprofit business development center. I recently went from director of marketing to contractor so that I could focus more on building my business.

As creatives, we can continuously refine our art.

How do you handle perfectionism?

Honestly, I’m not sure if I handle it well enough just yet. I am a true perfectionist, and if something does not go the way I envisioned it to go, it’s an automatic cut. I can’t say I’m working on that either, as I will always strive for perfection from my perspective.

What’s something that surprised you about running a creative business?

That I literally have to wear all the hats and do all the things. I receive tons of support from my husband, which I am more than grateful for. But even with genuine help, one would still have to try on and wear many hats within the business.

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What advice would you give to someone about handling the highs and lows of owning a business?

Stay resilient, celebrate all successes and stay committed to your vision.

FROM 'PROJECT RUNWAY' TO WEDDING AISLE: MEET LAURIE UNDERWOOD OF LAURY BRIDE Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

Absolutely. My work was criticized on national television while I was on 'Project Runway' in 2015. I try to stay open-minded, reflect before reacting, gain clarity of their perspective, and make improvements in my work if I feel it’s necessary.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

I am passionate about closing the wealth gap for Black Americans. This passion has grown in my contract role with a business development center, where I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of entrepreneurship and economic empowerment in creating opportunities and bridging disparities.

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you use for your business that you just love— one that makes running your business a bit easier?

I’d have to say Zapier. It allows me to create different automations in my business, allowing me to work on higher-priority items within my business.

What brings you joy?

My family brings me joy. My husband, our two daughters and our late son. Being with and thinking of them all brings me joy!

Thanks, Laurie! You can learn more about the designer’s brands at laurybride.com and lauryhome.com.

Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

"'I am passionate about closing the wealth gap for Black Americans. This passion has grown in my contract role acenter, where I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of entrepreneurship and economic empowerment in creating opportunities and bridging disparities."

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How Reiki Can Help You Unlock Your Creativity or Overcome a Creative Block

By Susan Ring Credit: Wavebreakmedia for iStock by Getty Images.

W

hether you’re a professional artisan or person who wants to try an artistic hobby, Reiki can help you harness your creativity. According to practitioners, Reiki is a healing art that generates pure light and love, which, in turn, helps us tap into our true core.

The alternative therapy works by aligning the chakras (energy centers) in the body. This alignment fosters a free flow of energy, allowing access to new depths of creativity and confidence by removing the stress and anxiety that often block the pathway.

"Reiki is widely recognized for its stress-reducing and relaxation properties; however, I found that this practice can go far and beyond physical and emotional healing, extending into the realm of creativity and creative expression" says Amanda Rue, a Reiki practitioner.

What is Reiki?

The overarching belief in Reiki is that a universal life force energy flows through all living beings.

Reiki practitioners transfer that energy to clients through the laying of hands or distant healing.

In distant healing, the practitioner sends Reiki energy to the recipient,

regardless of their location.

The practitioner as the facilitator As Michelle Olson, a Reiki master practitioner, says, that when it comes to creating art or trying a new hobby, "We often question ourselves and ask whether we are good enough. We’re brought into this world to do exactly what we do—we just have to believe in ourselves. I believe that when we come from the heart center, we can harness our power within.

For me, I feel like I’m just holding space for you to be in touch with your own healing, loving light."

In other words, you already hold everything you need; you just need to access it, and Reiki can help do that.

A Reiki practitioner typically is trained and guided by a certified Reiki master. The hands-on and theoretical training is divided into several levels, and the student is able to delve deeper into the practice with each stage. Focusing on a variety of universal symbols helps practitioners access and channel life force energy, which allows them to open up their own energetic pathway.

"When people practice Reiki they often experience a release of mental and emotional blockages.

This clearing is a significant part of the creative process as it removes barriers that can often inhibit free thinking and imagination.

By creating a state of mental clarity and emotional tranquility, Reiki can help to create an ideal environment for creative ideas and thoughts to flourish," said Amanda.

Too often we get conditioned and repressed by the social structures and external pressures of everyday life—not to mention juggling work, family and leisure time.

Reiki can release the ego mind; this practice helps people to open up which, in turn, can help ease the flow of energy. It’s relaxing and comforting to receive a Reiki treatment in person but you can also get Reiki healing when you’re not in the practitioner’s presence.

"There really is no difference because it depends on the person receiving the energy. If you’re open to it, you’re going to feel it," Michelle says.

Love and light By unblocking energy pathways, and fostering a sense of clarity, Reiki can pave the way for deeper expression and a smoother road for just about any endeavor.

Michelle says, "Reiki is pure love and light. If your intention is to send out love, it can be a good thing not just for that individual, but also for the collective."

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L

THE ART OF MINDFUL CRAFTING MEET FIBER ARTIST, RETREAT LEADER AND AUTHOR LIZA LAIRD

iza Laird is a multi-talented woman with a passion for fiber arts and holistic well-being. As a fiber artist, mother and breast cancer survivor, she brings a unique blend of experiences to her role as a yoga-and-yarn retreat leader and author of 'Yoga of Yarn: A Knitter’s Handbook for SelfDiscovery.' In her interview, Liza shares more about her business, from how she started it to its underlying mission and how she defines success.

Tell us about your work.

I’m a yoga and yarn guide, supporting anyone who loves to knit, weave, spin or crochet.

I help these crafters engage in their practice with intention and authenticity. Through my book and retreats, I invite the exploration of movement,

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meditation, intentions and listening to your intuition to foster a life well-lived.

Where did you discover the idea for your business?

While attending a yoga retreat at Good Commons in Vermont, I wished I had brought my knitting with me. The retreat center envelops you in a warm hug and feels like the perfect location for breathing creativity into your daily life. From that moment on, I knew I wanted to share my passion for knitting and yoga, as I can’t have one without the other. Since then, I have led the annual Yoga + Yarn Retreat and published my first book, 'Yoga of Yarn,' to share my own personal experience and lessons about knitting with intention.

I was already leading yoga

retreats and knitting constantly.

So, it was a natural progression to weave together the mental, spiritual and physical aspects of each activity to see how they could work to improve our lives more generally.

How do you define success for your creative business?

I define it based on the impact I have on people who are ready to hear the message. When I reach more people and affect how they are able to maintain a calm and centered perspective no matter what life throws at them, and they attribute some of that to the practices they learned through my words or retreats, then that is the greatest success I could ever imagine.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration through

movement of any kind, whether that be walks with my dog, dancing with my children or my asana practice. These days I am trying to put my phone down as much as possible. I’m spending my time with crystals and tarot and reading Elizabeth Gilbert, Peggy Orenstein, Glennon Doyle, Anne Lamott, Lisa Lister and Julia Cameron, to name a few.

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started your business?

It’s more fun with a friend.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start selling their art or product?

Set clear goals and be realistic with your time. Have fun. Set up check-ins with yourself. Stick to your values.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I’m an introvert by nature. Even though I love to teach and lead retreats, my day-to-day is fueled by quiet alone time. I need this space in order to maintain my center and balance throughout daily life.

As creatives, we can be continuously create and refine our art. How do you handle perfectionism?

I am so far from perfect, so that makes it easy to not strive for perfection. Just look at my dining room most days after my kids finish a meal! I love asymmetry and imperfections and try my best to live by the philosophy that nothing in life is permanent. When I knit, I aim to find joy in the process and not care as much about the finished product. Though I find that when I am in the moment with the process, the finished product does tend to embody that beauty more clearly!

In my weaving, I try to celebrate my threading errors and see how I can turn them into something unique rather than let them ruin my entire weave.

It’s not a mistake; it’s a design element!

my experience, persistence and faith matter much more than intelligence and talent.

Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

Of course! It is very common for someone not to understand what I am trying to achieve with my work, and I need to be okay with that fact. I try not to take it personally, and when I do, I let myself feel that insecurity and the emotions it creates inside me. Then I let those feelings pass through me, so I can get back to what I love to do. That said, criticism from others pales in comparison to my own criticism of myself. I’m very critical of what I do, and sometimes it distracts me from the process and makes it harder for me to listen to my inner wisdom. I am constantly working on that and telling myself to let that criticism go.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

I’ve always loved supporting Heifer International.

I’m also a breast cancer survivor, along with both my grandmothers and aunt. So, I have always supported breast cancer research through the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you use for your business that you just love—one that makes running your business a bit easier?

Google Workspace helps streamline things for me, and I keep things simple digitally—my websites are on Wix, and I teach all my classes through Zoom.

What’s something that surprised you about running a creative business?

All the things I have to get done that have nothing to do with yoga and knitting but are necessary to keep the business running.

What advice would you give to someone about handling the highs and lows of runninga business?

Committing to your work and not abandoning it when it gets hard. Making space for a sabbatical and nurturing yourself so you don’t get burnt out. In

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What brings you joy?

So many things! My children, piles of yarn, weaving, knitting, spinning, grooming my angora rabbit, hanging with my alpacas and chickens, reading by a crackling fire, a steaming cup of coffee and journaling.

Thanks, Liza! You can learn more about her work at www.yogaofyarn.com and www.raglineknits.com.

Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

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HOW A DYSLEXIA DIAGNOSIS IN HER LATE 30S LED BONNIE MONTELEONE TO BECOME AN ARTIST AND OCEAN ADVOCATE

Credit: Jeneene Chatowsky.

Provided courtesy of Mary Jameson.

We’d like to introduce you to Bonnie Monteleone, an artist and visionary who transforms ocean plastics into captivating mixed-media art and sculptures. She is also the founder of the Plastic Ocean Project, a non-profit organization that envisions a world free of plastic pollution.

But how did Bonnie’s artistic and environmental journey begin? Her story is one of self-discovery, resilience and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. It all started when she underwent

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testing for dyslexia at 38.

Little did she know that this assessment would reveal a surprise artistic talent. Discover more in Bonnie's interview.

How did you get started creating your art?

My hidden artistic talent came to light during a personal assessment I underwent at the age of 38 to determine if I had dyslexia. This artistic gift had been a concealed secret throughout my adult life, stemming from childhood experiences of being ridiculed for academic

underperformance. Following the dissolution of my marriage and the conclusion of a 12-year co-ownership of a restaurant with my husband, I found myself compelled to pursue a career change.

Despite my limited experience, office jobs emerged as the most accessible option. My employer, recognizing the challenges I faced in the office environment, organized an evaluation to address the difficulties I encountered.

After the assessment, the doctor became convinced of

my artistic abilities, speculating that I likely excelled in art during my school years. Contrary to his assumption, I clarified that I had never been proficient in art. To my surprise, he explained that my strength lay in spatial relationships, urging me to reconsider my career path and pursue art education in college.

I remember him saying, ‘The last place you need to be working is in an office.’

I stated, ‘I might conceptualize my research by creating an art exhibit.’

Although I hadn’t initially formulated a plan, that question served as the catalyst for the creation of 25 feet of mixed media canvases titled 'What Goes Around Comes Around' and a sculpture named 'Wave of the Future.' These pieces were crafted using plastic flotsam and jetsam,

Taking his advice to heart, I enrolled in art classes, achieving straight A’s effortlessly for the first time in my life. I thrived in painting, photography and especially sculpting, discovering a previously unknown aspect of myself. These courses eventually paved the way for me to merge my scientific research on plastics from some of the world’s remotest locations into mixed media art and sculptures crafted from ocean plastics and recycled materials.

At what point did you realize that you could start a business?

While defending my thesis titled 'The Plastic Ocean Project: An Exploration of Plastic Pollution in the Ocean’s Subtropical Gyres and the Consequences' as a graduate student at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, a member of the audience asked what my intentions were regarding the plastics I had gathered from my ocean voyages. In response,

"Origin" (USA) and "Stradda" (France).

To date, I’ve been commissioned to craft two additional sculptures: a North Atlantic Blue Marlin and The Tree of Knowledge.

In addition, I created a pro bono piece, a Sea Turtle, which functions as an educational tool highlighting the impacts of plastics on sea turtles. This sculpture is displayed at the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Hospital and Rehab Center.

My most recent project, funded by a private donor, is titled 'Running Out of Time.' This piece features a female figure in a running position, covered in microplastics, addressing the urgent issue of plastic pollution.

The funds generated from the sale of my artwork contribute to the nonprofit I co-founded with Paul Lorenzo in 2012. The nonprofit shares a name with my thesis, 'Plastic Ocean Project.'

as well as beached trash.

The exhibit received funding from a grant provided by Project Aware and has since traveled to 50 locations across the country. One of my paintings graced the covers of four educational books, was used as a poster for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and was showcased in renowned magazines, such as

How do you define success for your business?

The success of my art is not solely measured by monetary gains but rather by the educational value it imparts. The incorporation of actual plastic collected from thousands of miles away at sea not only underscores the gravity of the issue but also provides people with a tangible connection to one of the most urgent situations on the planet.

Plastics are now directly affecting the smallest organisms, such as

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plankton, to the largest, like blue whales, impacting every living being in between.

Where do you find inspiration?

My greatest inspiration stems from the collaborative efforts in our Plastic Ocean Project research laboratory.

Working alongside fellow scientists, researchers and students, we delve into the intricate details of plastic pollution. This exploration not only enhances our comprehension of the subject but also fuels my motivation to convey the scientific findings in a manner that resonates with people. My hope is that by making the research accessible, it can encourage a shift in human behavior toward a more sustainable and responsible approach.

appreciation. If you love your work, allow others to love it too.

Do not fear rejection. Do not fear calling yourself an artist. If you are making art, you are an artist. All it takes is one person to appreciate your work and you are truly a success—and that one person

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What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I started my research when I was 49 and now serve as the executive director of the non-profit Plastic Ocean Project where I played a pivotal role in founding, which now employs four people.

Since then, I’ve coauthored five peerreviewed scientific publications, traveled over 10,000 nautical miles, visited four of the five subtropical ocean gyres collecting hundreds of plastic samples with a myriad of scientists.

How do you handle perfectionism?

A few years ago, I came to the realization that perfectionism is what prevented me from completing my artistic projects.

Once I let go of the pursuit of perfection, my art underwent a transformative shift, becoming more innovative. I recall hearing the phrase, 'A painting is never finished,' and it resonated with me deeply.

What’s a piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started?

Looking back, I wish I had a mentor who could have guided me in owning and appreciating my artistic abilities.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start selling their art?

With the advent of the internet, it provides a much larger audience with a wide variety of preferences and

get paid for it appropriately.

can be you. Love your magic.

When you own your magic, you should have no problem asking to

I often find myself scrutinizing completed pieces, wishing I had made adjustments here or there. Yet, I’ve come to realize the importance of putting the brush down at a certain point and telling myself, 'Don’t let perfect get in the way of good.' And that is how I surrender!

When you own your magic, you should have no problem asking to get paid for it appropriately.

What’s something that surprised you about running a creative business?

As someone who identifies as an introvert, it has been surprising to discover how I’ve been able to venture beyond my comfort zone in pursuit of my passion. Unbeknownst to me, I uncovered a superpower within myself, harnessing my artistic abilities to contribute to positive change in the world. Once I made the commitment to be part of the solution rather than the problem, my artistic expression flowed seamlessly, and my involvement in civic engagement flourished. I’m now confident standing in front of a room full of people, sharing insights about the issue of plastic pollution and initiating conversations about potential solutions.

What advice would you give to someone about handling the highs and lows of running a business?

I made the mistake of working incessantly, putting in seven days a week for about 60 hours, falsely believing that I was maximizing productivity.

However, the reality was quite different—I found myself falling further behind while sacrificing crucial time with friends, family, and self-care.

Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

I am sure my work has been criticized but not directed at me personally. I welcome constructive criticism because it expands my imagination to deepen my creativity.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

Certainly, Plastic Ocean Project, Inc. stands out as one of the most gratifying achievements in my life, alongside raising my two children. Another creative endeavor currently in progress is a full-length feature documentary titled 'If the Ocean Could Talk – A Voice for the North Atlantic.' This film will encapsulate a substantial portion of our research and present solutions to address the human impacts on our oceans.

Can you share the name of a tool that makes running your business a bit easier?

We have been pleased with the Flipcause.com platform, which provides excellent customer service and includes help with our website, fundraising, volunteer and event signup campaigns.

What brings you joy?

Nature, with its myriad wonders, ranging from insects to marine mammals, as well as the charm of baby animals, including children, is the source of my joy and the driving force behind the work I engage in.

Thanks, Bonnie! You can learn more about the artist’s work at www.plasticoceanproject.org.

Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

This pattern persisted for about eight years until I stumbled upon an insight suggesting that those who work nonstop often end up wasting a significant amount of time. During this period, hitting professional highs brought little joy, and the lows felt overwhelmingly catastrophic. I struggled to complete tasks, and the constant feeling of urgency left me figuratively with my hair on fire. It was only when I decided to prioritize self-care and strike a better work-life balance, making time for both my personal life and professional endeavors, that I experienced a positive shift. Recognizing the significance of work-life balance made handling the inevitable ups and downs much more manageable, underlining the importance of personal well-being in overall success and fulfillment.

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How Sated Ventures Weaves Artisans into the Tapestry of Travel

K

arolina Guilcapi is the founder of Sated Ventures, a private luxury travel and tour business. The company arranges custom tours in over 4o countries and has a fondness for Latin America. We caught up with Karolina to learn more about her company and its connection to local artisans.

hut, sleeping with the guinea pigs by a small fire, not speaking Spanish or English but Quechua, a native language used in remote villages. Claudia now has a proper kitchen to cook in and she invited us to join her. We ground corn into flour and had many laughs with Claudia and her husband.

One of Sated Ventures’ tenets is to support the local economies during trips. 'We make sure that the destination benefits from our visits, such as eating and staying in places that are locally owned.

Connecting my clients with the local communities is my life’s work. That is what we do here at Sated Ventures,' says Karolina.

Tell us about an artisan you work with.

There are some fantastic programs in Ecuador that elevate the lives of local people—teaching them to be entrepreneurs. Having ownership of their businesses has transformed some of the small villages. Through my local office, we were able to forge relationships with these communities.

For example, Claudia is an indigenous woman in Ecuador who is a fantastic entrepreneur. We send our guests to her humble kitchen where they enjoy an afternoon of cooking together, stories, and learning about life in the Andes. It is so authentic!

It takes place in one of the most artisan-filled areas of South America—Otavalo, which is home to the largest indigenous market in the whole continent.

Please share more about cooking with Claudia.

My husband and I visited her village to experience what it is that my clients do. We spent time listening to her story about growing up in a mud

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Karolina in Claudia's garden.

Describe what’s happening in these photos.

Claudia first takes you to the garden to pick the vegetables and herbs and then you grind corn to make flour for the tortillas, you make a spicy salsa with her peppers, and other dishes such as potato patties, avocado salad and a chicken stew. All ingredients are from the village. We also drank a welcome chicha, a fermented corn drink.

Thanks, Karolina! You can learn more about Sated Ventures at www.satedventures.com.

Photo Credits: Unless otherwise indicated, photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

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Artisan Joy ISSUE 5

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