Artisan Joy Issue 6

Artisan Joy

Become an Artisan Joy Amplifier for just $99. As an Amplifier, you'll receive our beautifully crafted magazine right to your doorstep. But that's not all— $74 of your support is tax-deductible, allowing you to help us promote creative entrepreneurs while enjoying a tax benefit.

Make a Tax-Deductible Donation & Subscribe to the Print Magazine

Artisan Joy’s mission is to amplify the work of creative entrepreneurs, chronicle the positive impact of art, craft and creativity on the economy and community, foster connection among creative business owners, inform the public about the work of artists and artisans, and educate artists and artisans about small business ownership through interview journalism.

Your support directly impacts our ability to produce high-quality content and champion the creative community.

Artisan Joy is an organization exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3) and is further classified as a public charity under IRC Section 509(a)(2).

Cover photo credits from left to right: Downs and Towns, Roam Loud, Forage & Flower

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Stephanie Afonso Blanchard

Artisan Joy is published quarterly. Additional special editions may be published outside that schedule. 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)

ISSN2837-000 (Online)

Artisan Joy is a trademark of Words N More Creative LLC and is used with permission. 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

Artisan Joy PO BOX 336, Barrington, RI 02806 hello@artisanjoy.com

Editor's Letter

In this issue, we feature interviews with incredible creative entrepreneurs. They're breaking barriers and challenging the status quo. Toyin Omisore puts Black and Brown women at the forefront of activewear fashion with her brand, Roam Loud, and people are paying attention. Pieces from the brand appeared on the 2023 "Oprah's Favorite Things" holiday gift list.

Don't miss learning about Houston Vandergriff, an award-winning travel photographer who has Down syndrome. Houston has been to 26 countries and counting. Recently, Nikon

Inc. selected Houston for its Nikon Creators program—fewer than 10 creatives were chosen.

Get your creative juices flowing with DIY craft kits from small businesses, and learn why community is important for artist entrepreneurs. If you're feeling crafty, try our picnic blanket tutorial made from a canvas drop cloth.

As you flip through this issue, discover how the creative entrepreneurs featured are making a positive impact in their communities. Join us as we delve deeper into their stories and explore the ways in which they are shaping the future of what it means to be a creative entrepreneur.

Photo by Houston Vandergriff.

A Harmonious Tribute: How This Business Owner Honors Victims of Domestic Violence

Aheart-wrenching event changed Katrina Lloyd’s world forever. In 2017 she lost her sister Sherrie to domestic violence. While processing the devastating loss and finding a way to heal, Katrina sought a way to celebrate her sister’s life. Thinking back on her most cherished memories with Sherrie, Katrina recalled their shared love of music. “Healing over time, I searched for a way to pay homage to her. We would often sing together at home. Music was a constant in our lives, with our mom playing tunes all the time, and we sang at church,” Katrina said. She used that inspiration to create Falsetto The Label, a clothing brand that donates 20% of sales to domestic violence charities.

Learn more about Katrina and how she launched her clothing company in her Q&A.

Why did you decide to go all-in on the business?

I knew from the outset that my product would become a business, as I wanted to reach as many women and girls as possible to inspire them to be the best they could be in life. I created the slogan,

“Hit your high note,” as a nod to falsetto, which is a music register outside of a singer’s normal range and simply beautiful. Just like falsetto, women and girls can be extraordinary.

How do you define success for your business?

I define success as raising awareness of domestic violence and encouraging women and girls to do things they have never thought of. For me, that’s more important than social media likes. What I’m seeking is invaluable encouragement to women and girls worldwide; something that will last generations. If I can do it, so can you. My wish is for Falsetto The Label to become a household name.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

I find inspiration from the bond that Sherrie and I had and honoring her memory. It keeps me going every day. I wear a bracelet with her name on it as a reminder of my “why.”

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone

Sherrie, Katrina's sister, was lost to domestic violence.

had given you when you first started? It takes time, and everyone’s path to success looks and is different. You are the author of your business story.

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

Dig deep and figure out your “why.” If your “why” is deeply rooted, it will carry you through birthing your idea into a reality. Also, be patient. Great things take time.

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

I am an avid home design enthusiast! I enjoy home decorating. It’s another way I get to use my creative side.

How do you handle perfectionism?

I tell myself, “That’s good enough.” Perfectionism is one of the largest blocks to progress. Something can always be refined more, but over time, I give myself grace, try my best and implement. That’s my simple recipe for handling perfectionism.

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

Time. The time it takes to create the designs, ordering the right clothing materials, building and managing a website and marketing for the modern day world. I also work full time for the federal government, a wife and twin mom. So juggling all of that and running my business leaves me with a pretty full plate. Time management has been so very important to maintain a good

balance in managing my business.

What’s your advice for handling the highs and lows of running a business?

Give yourself grace and give it time. Running a business can change from day to day. Stay consistent and you will reach your destination to success.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

I am passionate about all domestic violence charities because they support so many people in need in getting out of bad situations and support them after they are free from their abusers. The rehabilitation after being abused is vital for mental health. You can search for your area’s local domestic violence charities by visiting bestlocalcharities.org/find/categories.php?id=51.

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?

Shopify because it made website building so easy and contains so many app options, order management, marketing tools and the list goes on. It’s been great for me as a small business owner.

What brings you joy?

God first and then my family. God gave me my gift of creativity, and my family has supported me every step of the way. They are why I have joy.

Thanks, Katrina! You can learn more about her business at https://falsettothelabel.com/.

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity. All photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

UNAPOLOGETICALLY BOLD: ROAM LOUD BREAKS BARRIERS IN ACTIVEWEAR

know how much money it could be. So, I knew that I needed it to be strategic. I researched the market. I noted types of popular bra and legging styles, and I asked people who wore them what they liked and didn’t like about them.

Simultaneously, I was brainstorming the company name and the DNA of the brand, which inspired our tagline, “Navigate the world boldly,” because Roam Loud was going to be a company that encouraged women to break out of the limitations and boxes and all of those things and the heaviness that we sometimes feel as we’re navigating all our individual

Toyin Omisore worked out frequently, but the popular activewear brands didn’t reflect her. So, she created Roam Loud, an activewear and athleisure brand that puts Black and Brown women at the forefront, and people are noticing. In fact, the brand’s Yanta tank and leggings were selected for “Oprah’s Favorite Things” in 2023. In her interview, Toyin walks us through her process from brand conception to launching Roam Loud and beyond. She also shares some excellent advice for new creative entrepreneurs.

Take us through your journey of starting Roam Loud.

When I conceived of the idea for an activewear brand, I was in the gym four to five days a week, and I was around others who worked out a lot. My friend invited me to a sample sale for an activewear brand. I didn’t think much of my activewear at the time, but I bought a set. I remember the first day I wore it. I felt so amazing, and I hadn’t even worked out yet. I knew at that moment my future company was going to be an activewear brand. I said to myself, “I want to find a way and recreate this feeling for women who are also in this same space working out and just living a normal life.

But I told myself that if I was going to create this brand, it really needed to reflect me, and it needed to reflect women who look like me and the women who came before me.

My next thought wasn’t about designing and creating pieces because I’ve started companies before. I know what it takes to create one. I

worlds. I wanted the brand to push out those reminders and be this place where people can come back to and feel that and understand that. I wanted black women and brown women to know, hey, this space is for you.

This is a safe space. And we are unapologetically creating a lifestyle where brown skin is at the forefront and not an afterthought.

How did you go from the idea to actually creating the garments?

So once I started getting feedback from friends,

family and people who were working out regularly and learned about the styles and colors that people gravitated to, and I started with our Yanta tank as our hero product.

How did you fund this?

At the time, I was working as a social services advocate full-time and funding everything through my employment. And I do think that that was the best way to do it. It’s definitely something that I recommend to anyone who’s starting a business. I’m very big on don’t quit your job—keep your job to fund your company.

How do you define success for your business?

For me, it took a while to figure it out. I went into Roam Loud thinking that success is solely based on sales. If I’m selling and doing well, then that means that

Roam Loud is successful. And I’ve learned that because retail is an up-and-down or a free-flowing industry—that’s not necessarily always the case. I’ve had some years where sales weren’t the best, but it was a great year for collaborations or getting press.

And so I think for me right now, I define success as having a strong community, like our digital community. Having an active engaged community is something that I list as success because it’s not easy to build and maintain. Having a year where we’re able to collaborate with partners is something that is important to me because for the brand to grow, we always need to meet new people and be in front of new people. And we’re also still a very small brand. And so more people need to know about us in every way possible.

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

Well, for one, you cannot be shy about selling. It’s a struggle, and it’s a struggle that I had as well, not much anymore because I know that selling matters. You have to just really believe in your product and believe in what you’re doing. Be okay with saying, this is what I’m doing, and this is how much it costs. Because no one is going to know about your product if you are not talking about it.

Also, definitely look into pop-up shops or vendor markets that speak to what you’re doing. But don’t rely on vendor markets because they can be a hit or miss, and preparing for markets is exhausting. I don’t know if

WE ARE UNAPOLOGETICALLY CREATING A LIFESTYLE WHERE BROWN SKIN IS AT THE FOREFRONT AND NOT AN AFTERTHOUGHT.

people realize how much work goes into small businesses that are spending time at these markets, and sometimes you’re not making any money. But I do think it’s a good way to at least get in front of people. And if no one comes to those markets, I think it’s a great way to meet other people because some of the other companies that you might be alongside have been doing it longer than you. And I find that a lot of people are willing to just share information and connect. And it might not be long-term connections, but sometimes you just need someone to tell you about another market, and that little nugget of information can help your business.

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

It always surprises me when people interact with our brand in-person and are surprised by the quality of our products. I think many people have low expectations for small businesses, especially in the age of online shopping where they may have had experiences with cheap, lowquality goods. However, I believe most small businesses, including ours, take great care in delivering high-quality products to our customers, and it’s surprising to me that people don’t always

expect that level of care and quality from us.

It was surreal. It also helped me with just confirmation. While going through this process, it’s easy to doubt yourself—

What was it like to be selected as one of Oprah’s favorite things?

wondering if I’m captivating audiences in the way that I think I am or if people like my product. To be selected was amazing. It was confirmation that I belong here. I deserve this win for the work that I’ve put in. And I don’t think I’ll ever be more grateful for Oprah to have selected me.

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

I’m an introvert. I’m an outgoing introvert. And people usually think that I love to be in social spaces. But I like being in small groups with people. That’s where I enjoy most of my time. I’m quiet. Sometimes, I feel like people think

I’m reserved, but then sometimes, people meet me in different spaces and then think otherwise. But I’m very quiet. But once you get me in a comfortable space and a setting, I definitely come alive.

What brings you joy?

I have been working at the library for a change of scenery. I forgot, due to the digital age, how much I love physical books and being surrounded by them. That has been bringing me a lot of secret one-on-one joy. I’ve also been spending time with my girlfriends lately, and that has brought me a lot of joy. Just being able to escape and talk and laugh with friends—whether it’s dinner or some type of creative activity— spending time with people I love, whether it’s my friends or sister— brings me joy.

Thanks, Toyin! You can learn more about her activewear brand at roamloud.com

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited and condensed.

All photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHER USES CAMERA AS HIS VOICE Meet Houston Vandergriff

When Houston Vandergriff entered the world, doctors saw his Down syndrome and made assumptions about the limitations he would face. Fast forward to today, and Houston is in his mid-20s and has become an award-winning travel photographer and inspiration to people all over the world.

His accolades include being named on NFT Now’s NFT100 list of influential creators in 2023, along with Snoop Dogg. And when Nikon Inc. launched its esteemed Nikon Creators program this year, they chose Houston as one of only nine artists for their inaugural cohort.

We interviewed Houston to learn more about his photography business, Downs and Towns, and his advocacy for the disability community. Houston’s mom, Katie Vandergriff, joined us because Houston’s speech can be difficult to understand due to low muscle tone, an effect of Down syndrome. But Houston has mastered communicating his unique perspective through the universal language of art, challenging societal norms and pushing for a more inclusive future.

How did Houston’s love of photography evolve?

Katie: Houston has basically always had a camera in his hand. Since he was little, even as a preschooler. Our family likes to travel. We live in Tennessee, but we’ve been very blessed to travel quite a bit. And when Houston and our daughters were younger, we would make scrapbooks about our trips. The girls drew pictures and did write-ups. We would give Houston a camera, and it would be his job in the family to take pictures of things that we

saw, and then we’d get those printed and put that in the scrapbook as his contribution. A camera for Houston has always been his voice.

When it came time for Houston to graduate high school in 2017, he decided to pursue travel photography. Our local university, the University of Tennessee, has a professional program. And so, Houston completed the photography certificate and the advanced photography certificate, and I attended classes with him.

One of our courses was photography as a business class, where we were asked to come up with ways we were unique. And our teacher said, “You’ve got Down syndrome, and that’s what sets you apart. That’s what makes you really cool.” I guess that is probably the night that Downs and Towns was born. There are not many, if any, travel photographers with

Down syndrome. And it was kind of funny because up until that point, our family had never really even talked much about Down syndrome. You know, we didn’t make it a big deal in our family. We didn’t make it a differentiator at all. But our teacher had a brother with Down syndrome, and he really encouraged us to embrace it and look at it as a very positive thing.

That professor has since passed away, but we saw his wife recently, and we’re so happy to be able to share with her what an impact he had on us.

What happened next?

Katie: During the pandemic, we had several trips canceled. That was the first time we were able to sit down and go through a lot of the pictures that Houston had taken in different places. He took Photoshop and Lightroom classes to

learn how to process photos. We also took an online class on selling photography prints and set up an online shop for Houston to sell his photography.

Downs and Towns has turned into an advocacy platform. People have reached out from all over the world, expressing that Houston inspires them. Parents of children with disabilities shared that his story has helped them feel hope for their child’s future. These parents can share Houston’s story with their children’s doctors, showing that a person with Down syndrome is living a full life, and their kids can, too.

You’ve been to a lot of places. What’s your favorite so far? Houston: Paris.

Katie: My favorite place is probably the next place.

Is there a piece of advice that you wish you had known when you first started Downs and Towns?

We have done really well taking classes, and we’ve learned a lot. But it doesn’t have to just be me and Houston. My daughter helps with our website and all our social media stuff, and we hired an

Amsterdam who sent us emails with videos and instructions on how to get set up.

What is your advice for firsttime creative entrepreneurs?

Katie: I guess the thing for us, and what we’ve learned the hard way, is that you don’t have to do it all yourself. There are people who know more than you, and it’s really nice to get help in the things that you need to know.

accountant, which was a huge relief. And even if it’s a mentor or advice we’ve found in the photography community, there are lots of people really willing to help. For example, people suggested Houston sell NFTs. And so, we had a mentor from

Katie: Don’t be afraid to try things, abandon things, or go through a door if it opens. You know, as part of our business class, we made a business plan and worked with the local business support group here in town. We had everything laid out to be an official business. But for the last few years, just kind of gone where the doors open up

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

Katie: I’m going to branch out and make that question a little bigger. To run a creative business as a person with a disability, I am surprised at how open people are, and how helpful people are and how people want to include Houston. Just that you’re going to take your little piece of art and try to make a difference in the world. That seems like it’s almost impossible. But it’s been so cool. And it’s kind of a weird thing for us to talk about because it’s not that we’re bragging on Houston. He’s a great photographer, but he’s not the world’s greatest photographer ever, but it’s really neat to see the

projects that want to be diverse and truly embrace diversity and celebrate differences. Digital cameras make photography not prohibitively expensive, and social media gives us a view into the world and it lets the world look at our little window of the world, too. And it’s for the most part it’s been a really great experience.

I think the one negative thing we keep running into is the negativity on the Internet, you know. People have commented that Houston didn’t really take the photos we posted—that we’re lying. It is a little discouraging, but it just reminds us about why we need to be doing what we’re doing.

What keeps you going through the highs and lows of running Houston’s business?

Katie: It’s an advocacy platform, truly and I think all the negative that comes with it just goes to prove that we need to keep going.

So, instead of discouraging us, it really just motivates us more to keep going.

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?

Katie: Yes, we use Shopify for our online store—it makes it just almost transparent.

What brings you joy?

Houston: Traveling and watching WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment).

Katie: Traveling. I like to see different cultures. It’s really fun to think about how we live in the world. If we’re not careful, we just get in our little bubble, and it’s comfortable, and it’s our time zone, and it’s our season, and it’s, you know, our life.

We all live in the world at the

same moment, but we’re all experiencing things differently, yet we’re all so very similar. Houston and I like to sit in airports or in city squares and people watch with the camera. It makes you a little more aware of things, and people are the same all over. They may dress differently or be different skin tones or have different cultures, but it’s really fun to get to see all the beauty and nature and then to see all the differences in people, yet we’re all the same.

Thanks, Houston and Katie! You can learn more about Downs and Towns at www.downsandtowns.com

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited and condensed.

All photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

Travel photos by Houston Vandergriff.

MAKE THIS DROP CLOTH PICNIC BLANKET

Making a personalized picnic blanket from a canvas drop cloth is a fun and easy way to flex your creativity. To make it waterproof, we suggest using a poly-backed drop cloth. If your canvas isn't poly-backed, place cardboard underneath it while painting to prevent the paint from seeping through.

Materials

• 9' x 12' Poly-backed drop cloth

• Steamer/iron (optional)

• Fabric paint in colors of your choice

• Painter's or masking tape

• Stencils

• Foam brushes or stencil roller

• Painter's tray

Step 1: Iron or steam (optional)

The drop cloth comes folded in the package, so you can iron or steam out the wrinkles to make working with stencils and paint easier.

Step 2: Secure your stencil to the canvas drop cloth with painter's tape. We

recommend using tape because, if not attached, your stencil can move around and ruin the design.

Step 3: Paint your stencil. A foam brush is excellent for intricate stencils. However, a stencil roller goes much faster if you're using a large stencil. Avoid loading your brush or roller with too much paint, which can cause your paint to bleed.

Step 4: Carefully lift the stencil and place it in another area. Repeat steps 1 through 3 in a pattern of your choice. If you're working with a large drop cloth, consider folding it in sections and painting one area at a time, allowing each section to dry before moving on to the next.

Explore Liv McClintock’s Vision of Leather and Legacy at Town

and Shore Handcrafted

Handbag designer and founder of Town and Shore Handcrafted, Liv McClintock, creates fine leather goods at her studio, which also houses her store, in Wilmington, Del. Once a network engineer, Liv’s entrepreneurial journey began serendipitously over a decade ago. We sat down with Liv live to hear more about the catalyst for her creative business, insights she’s gleaned from her entrepreneurial journey and her valuable advice for aspiring art and artisan business owners.

What was the catalyst for starting your business? I started creating leather goods about 10 years

ago, initially for myself, and then I started getting requests for them from friends and family. But I didn’t start a business right away. I was at a leather store one day wearing one of my bags and accidentally met a stylist from California. One of the first things he said was that it’s almost impossible to find anyone who works with leather.

When he started inquiring about my products, I came to realize there was a market there. I developed a relationship with him and put up a website so that he could log in, and we could kind of compare notes on the type of leathers and colors his clients were interested in. And so, it grew from there. I added another stylist and eventually decided that as much fun as it was working with stylists, I wanted to expand the business further and do direct-to-consumer because I could get feedback about my product directly from the people who were using them.

I started slowly marketing my collections by attending fine art fairs and building an email list. In 2019, I planned to attend more shows and travel, but the pandemic forced me to change plans. So, I moved into a larger studio space and opened a store where customers could see the products being made. I think it’s important for people to understand the creation process behind the items they consume. My store is arranged so that customers can see the studio through glass doors, witnessing the entire process from conception to finished product.

I also wanted the store to highlight leathercraft and sewing as art forms that are often overlooked in art communities.

How did you begin working with leather?

Sewing had always been a calming hobby that I learned from family. It became a necessity when my daughter was born. She was growing like a weed. To keep up, I started making onesies. I was still working

as a network engineer, and when I went back to work, I needed a bag that could hold my breast pump and look professional in client meetings. The soft fabric diaper bags were not suitable. I took up the challenge of making one myself.

I started with just a basic leather tote. I broke my sewing machine and burned out the motor, so I invested in another machine, which required teaching myself how to use it. I spent 10 years refining my skills in sewing leather. A lot of the knowledge that I had to get, I either had to teach myself and learn the hard way, or I had to chase someone down. Learning how to hand sew was never something I learned from my brother or my aunt or even my mother.

I actually had to find people. And so, going through leather stores, I actually met a gentleman out in Lancaster, Pa. who still made saddles and repaired them. I convinced him to teach me how to hand sew. And that got me on my way into working with much thicker leathers that you really couldn’t work on a machine. It taught me to appreciate the prep work that you had to do when sewing with leather. I wanted to make something that looked as good as a European product you might invest in.

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

I wish they would’ve convinced me how hard it is to educate the customer. It takes significant effort. Consumers often have misconceptions about the production process, assuming high-quality products are effortlessly made.

Conveying the true time, effort

and costs involved in developing and pricing your handbags can be a challenging but essential task for success.

It’s one of the reasons I opened the store. When someone shops in person, they see some of the aspects of what goes into making a handbag. Being able to interact, whether that’s in a fine arts exhibit or fine craft fair, is so critical for artists because you can talk with potential customers and understand their needs and wants for a product.

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

The first advice I would give is to start slow. Pay attention to your customer. Get as much interaction as you can. Small fine art fairs, preferably ones that are juried, where you’re in the company of other people whose focus is on making quality products. Don’t be afraid to talk to people even if they’re not buying from you. That’s not what’s important. What’s important is the feedback, and that will make

you not only a better maker but it’ll give you a little more insight into researching your target market. Start slow in pushing the business further, whether it’s having a really great website, whether it’s going to more events, all of that costs money. Don’t be surprised if you don’t make any sales at your first or your second or maybe even your third event.

For that reason, it’s important to start slow because I know of artists and great leather workers who just create phenomenal products who have told me, “I can’t do this anymore.” I need to go and get a full-time job. I got a family to feed. And I totally understand. And some of it came from them taking that leap of faith and saying, “I had great sales here. Now I want to push it further.” But not understanding the length of time it may take to find that customer base or how much you may have to invest before it’s enough to cover your expenses. I’d say start slow.

that are out there, but I look to fashion for color trends because my customers look for a handbag to go with their outfit or coat or shoes.

As a designer, you look at a bag or an object and you start picking it apart in your head on how it’s made or the shape, and it’s just too distracting. I never anticipated the amount of noise that can be out in the industry, in the fashion world, that would impact me as a maker and as an artist. Don’t look at the internet. My advice is to give yourself a month to just design, to do pattern

the mindset that you use to analyze building out networks is the same analytical mind that you use for designing a pattern and working through converting that twodimensional object to a three dimensional one.

Where do you find inspiration?

I draw inspiration from the energy of both nature and cities. I grew up on the eastern shore of Delaware and spent summers traveling to visit family in various cities. I observed the transition of energy as people moved between work in the city and relaxation at the shore. I grew up on a farm surrounded by nature, which shaped my preference for natural fibers. I find similarities between the busyness of nature and the excitement of exploring a new city and aim to capture these feelings in my designs.

making. And then, when you come up for air, maybe you can compare it to what’s out there.

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

The most surprising thing for me was the noise. I didn’t realize how noisy it could be inside your head when you’re trying to create. We are just overwhelmed constantly by the site lines of product. As a bag designer, when I’m ready to design a collection, I literally shut down everything because the noise is too much. Part of my job as a business owner is to understand the trends

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

This is not my first business. I actually was a network engineer for 23 years. I had a consulting company that did network engineering and application development software systems. A lot of people are surprised that I went from a technology career into a fashion one, and it’s actually not that big a leap because the math and

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

I would say for someone who is going to begin seriously selling their work, it is important to make sure that they have a good emotional support team, people who will encourage them. You’re certainly going to find plenty of people who think you’re crazy for trying to sell it.

Finding a group of people who will encourage you is very important because there are always going to be bad days. I think artists are already pretty good self-motivators,

I also wanted the store to highlight leathercraft and sewing as art forms that are often overlooked in art communities.

When someone shops in person, they see some of the aspects of what goes into making a handbag.

Being able to interact, whether that's in a fine arts exhibit or fine craft fair, is so critical for artists because you can talk with potential customers and understand their needs and wants for a product.

but I think it is important to have those people—creative and non-creative. For example, my husband, who isn’t in a creative field, has always been very encouraging of my career.

Tell us about a cause that you're passionate about. I’m very passionate about waterways and nature. A lot of people feel that that is counter because they feel that the use of leather is detrimental to waterways. And I would say that they’re right to some extent. I put my store and studio in a place that, during the 1800s, was one of the primary businesses in Wilmington, and it was leather. They were partially responsible for nearly destroying the ecosystem of the waterways—the Christina River. What we learned from that and Wilmington’s effort in restoring that waterway to what it is today is amazing.

from tanneries that not only respect the need for clean water but are very assertive about following the rules and

regulations. I feel that it’s very important not only to have great waterways but to have regulations to protect them.

be and learning from our very bad choices on how we allow industry to destroy those things. You can learn more at www. delawarenaturesociety.org.

What do you love about working and living in Wilmington?

One of the things that I love about it is its proximity to so many different types of people and different types of cities—the Mid-Atlantic in general. But Delaware is, to me, kind of that soothing in-between space, between so much energy from Baltimore, DC, New York and Philadelphia. You come here, and you feel a soothing, slower energy but still has a focus on being part of that crowd.

I came from a family of fishermen. I grew up near water. I don’t think I’ve ever been that far from water in my life. So, I’m very passionate about farming, clean water and a clean environment for my business.

I put a lot of effort in sourcing

The Delaware Nature Society is one of those organizations that I donate to and support because they have done such a phenomenal job in Wilmington, along with the state and the city, in cleaning up the waterways, making it a wonderful place to

I love that it doesn’t take me more than an hour and a half to get to a beach. It doesn’t take me more than two hours to get to the hills and mountain areas in Virginia. And so just the proximity, the flora, the variety of it that you can go to one end of the state in the county that’s predominantly farming and resort and the other end of the state is predominantly banking and legal, and they’re two hours away from each other. That’s

pretty amazing.

What brings you joy?

Getting my hands into a new piece of leather. Really good linen. The smells of vegetables and leather. My daughter’s face. She lights up at a new store window display that we put in. She often helps me create windows, and I’m a firm believer in really elaborate displays of color. I love when kids see you make something and learn how it goes from a thing to income. It’s hard for kids to make that connection. That’s one of the things that brings me— she’s able to see that at my studio and store. Mom came up with this idea and sketched it, made it and sold it. I love that.

Thanks, Liv! You can learn more at www.townshorestudio.com.

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited and condensed.

Photo credits: The three photos in the right column of page 22 are by Moonloop Photography and were provided courtesy of Town and Shore Handcrafted. The remaining photos were provided courtesy of Town and Shore Handcrafted.

WHY THIS ENTREPRENEUR GAVE COTTON CANDY A SOPHISTICATED

MAKEOVER

Giving her guests cotton candy as a wedding favor intrigued Emily Harpel, but she found the options available at the time unappetizing. “It was honestly a little scary—clear packaging that didn’t look food safe with a giant red clown on it,” Emily said. She realized she had an opportunity to put her own spin on cotton candy. Discover more about Emily’s sweet journey into entrepreneurship via handspun, luxe cotton candy.

What prompted you to get into selling cotton candy?

I got the idea to give cotton candy a much-needed upgrade while wedding planning in 2016. I was constantly searching for creative wedding favor ideas, and while cotton candy was popping up as a suggestion, it was honestly a little scary—clear packaging that didn’t look food safe with a giant red clown on it with either pink or blue sugar inside with no clear flavor description. I knew I could put a new spin on this nostalgic treat by creating adult flavors like champagne, Manhattan, peach Bellini, etc. I took the money from our wedding to start an

events-based cotton candy cart service business.

When did you realize that you could start a business?

For me, the business came first, and the artwork came second. I secured my LLC without ever even touching a cotton candy machine—crazy, right?

I quickly realized that there is an art to creating cones of cotton candy, developing flavor profiles, designing eye-catching packaging and creating attention-grabbing content. Art of Sucre quickly transitioned from a business idea to my art.

How do you define success for your business?

Defining success is such a personal thing that can be hard to describe. My first big success was booking my first-ever paid cotton candy event. The next was when I stopped looking up new job listings weekly because I started to believe this business was actually going to be something. Another was when I hit one million followers on TikTok. So on and so forth. If I have learned anything about success is that it’s a constantly moving target, and it’s more of a feeling than an actual mile

marker on the road.

Where do you find inspiration for your work?

Other people. I love hearing other founder’s stories, listening and seeing creatives reach for their dreams. I try to stop down and notice the small details because that is where I often find inspiration.

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

Go at your own pace. Running a business isn’t a race, and moving at a speed you are comfortable is so important. There is a certain confidence needed to be an entrepreneur, and to gain that you have to feel confident in your decisions. That can mean not rushing things or moving quicker than others suggest. Be sure to push yourself, but do it in your own timing.

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

Just start. I know that can sound like, duh, of course, but truly getting started can often be the most challenging part. Make that TikTok page, post the video. Make the listing, create the website. Whatever it is, just take that first step to getting started.

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

I’m actually so introverted. I think a lot of entrepreneurs get the reputation for being super outgoing, constantly networking (which is important), and being the ultimate salesperson. None of these things describe me. I am more of a hang-out-at-homewith-a-good-book-and-my-dog kinda gal. I joke with my team that I am actually the worst

salesperson ever. You don’t like cotton candy? No, worries, you don’t have to try it! I have never made a hard sale in my life.

As creatives, we can be continuously creating and refining our art. How do you handle perfectionism? Oof, there is no room for perfectionism in entrepreneurship. You have to get comfortable releasing a rough draft, especially in the beginning. One thing I have really worked hard on practicing is separating myself from my creations in a way that is a healthy boundary so I can put it out into the world when it’s oftentimes good enough and learning to perfect as I go.

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

It is so easy to get burnt out if you are not taking care of yourself. Especially in a creative space where you have to protect your creative process. You can only work so much and grind so many hours before the effects take hold of your creative workflow. I was not prepared for this when it happened to me.

What’s your advice for handling the highs and lows of running a business?

Running a business is like getting on a roller coaster. The highs are high, and the lows are low. This is something I am still working on how to handle. I have learned that it is okay to sit in those feelings and embrace them as they come. Finding a support group of entrepreneurs in your same place is so helpful so they can relate.

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

Oh, absolutely. Having a

business that thrives on social media opens you up to a lot of opinions, and not all of them are encouraging. I have set boundaries around looking at comment sections, and I’ve learned to tune out unhelpful voices and take note of those who have productive feedback.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

I’m passionate about teaching young entrepreneurs. I volunteer with two local high schools where I mentor students who are starting their first business.

What brings you joy?

My team. The people I work with are genuinely the best of the best, and I am so lucky to have the team I do. Getting to work alongside their genius is such a gift that brings me joy each day.

Thanks, Emily! You can learn more about Art of Sucre at www.artofsucre.com.

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity. All photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

Harp and Hare Helps People Picnic in Style

Harp and Hare in Wilmington, Del. transforms the traditional picnic into a sophisticated outdoor dining experience—perfect for special occasions. It was founded by four women, and we sat down with marketing director Courtney Thornton to learn more about Harp and Hare.

Tell us about Harp and Hare. Harp and Hare’s luxury picnics are a curated and elevated outdoor dining experience designed for those seeking a blend of sophistication and natural beauty. It goes beyond the traditional picnic, offering meticulously styled settings with pillows, fine China, lush blankets and elegant decor. Indulge in gourmet cuisine, artisanal treats and fine beverages served in

exquisite settings, whether it’s a picturesque park, beachfront, or private garden. Perfect for special occasions or intimate gatherings, a luxury picnic transforms an ordinary outdoor meal into a lavish, sensory-rich affair creating unforgettable moments in a relaxed and opulent atmosphere.

How did you get started?

Harp and Hare is owned by four women: Brittanie Blackwell, Lindsey Thompson, Crystin Liboma and Courtney Thornton, who have curated events in the past for family and friends, including a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” themed bridal shower and a “Roaring 20s” themed party. We realized that everyone deserves luxurious experiences—whether a man looking to propose to his girlfriend, a new mother looking

to reveal the gender of her rainbow baby, children with lifealtering disabilities or girls in Zambia. Since launching Harp and Hare in April 2021, we’ve partnered with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Hotel DuPont, Penns Woods Winery and more.

At what point did you realize that you could create a fullfledged business?

Uniting in our shared vision for curating luxurious events for all, each owner leverages their realworld strengths and expertise to bring the vision of Harp and Hare to life. Lindsey, renowned for her creativity and artistic flair, was the natural choice for our creative director, leading the design of our picturesque picnics. Courtney, a seasoned marketing manager in the arts industry, seamlessly transition

We are passionate about empowering other women and collaborating, not competing.

to the role of Harp and Hare’s marketing director, overseeing our website and social media presence. Drawing on her experience as a partnerships manager for the state of Delaware, Brittanie now guides Harp and Hare’s partnerships. As a project manager in healthcare, adept at financial intricacies, Crystin has assumed the role of our finance director. Together, we harmonize our strengths, propelling Harp and Hare towards continued success.

What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you started Harp and Hare?

A valuable piece of advice we wish we had received at the outset of our business journey is the importance of strategic budget allocation during the initial year of operation.

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

That it’s important to be able to think on your feet.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about Harp and Hare?

We are a family-owned business! Crystin and Courtney are sisters, and our two cousins are Brittanie and Lindsey.

Where do you find inspiration?

Nature gives us inspiration for our picnics. Whether it’s Positano on the Amalfi Coast, which inspired our RoyalTea theme or the hues of autumn

which inspired our boho theme, we look to our natural backdrop for inspiration. What’s your advice for handling the highs and lows of running a business? The lows don’t last forever. Ride the waves—you’re closer to the shore than you think!

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

We are passionate about empowering other women and collaborating, not competing. We recently launched the Cycle of Change

where we solicit donations of period products from the community and send them to girls in Zambia. After a trip to Zambia, we learned that some girls have to drop out of school and stay home due to lack of access to period products. Since life is no picnic for these young girls, we made it our mission to help them. Additionally, we hosted “Ladies Who Launch: A Bridgerton Business Bazaar” in November 2023. This luncheon was equipped with networking activities and a keynote speaker with the purpose of uplifting and uniting female entrepreneurs in Delaware. We plan to host at least one Ladies Who Launch event a year with different themes.

What do you love about living and working in Wilmington?

Wilmington has an intimate community, and many Wilmingtonians enjoy supporting local businesses.

What brings you joy?

Uplifting others and creating unforgettable memories

Thanks, Courtney! You can learn more at www.harpandhare.com

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity. All photos in this article were provided courtesy of Harp and Hare.

etsy.com/shop/punchystuff

etsy.com/shop/beckarahn

How this Entrepreneur Found the Confidence to Launch a Floral Preservation Business

Jennifer Bowes had been working in corporate finance and operations when the pandemic halted regular life. In her newly found free time, Jennifer revisited her passion for flowers, and the art of floral preservation intrigued her. Before settling on resin as her preservation medium, Jennifer tested different methods. Resin was the clear winner, and her floral preservation business, Forage & Flower, bloomed.

While preserving wedding bouquets is Forage & Flower’s most popular service, Jennifer can preserve memorial flowers and floral arrangements from milestone occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. The designer can even help

clients recreate their wedding bouquet and then preserve it for a keepsake. Learn more about the entrepreneur and how she found the courage to leave a corporate job to focus on her floral preservation business.

How did you get started in floral preservation and design?

I have always been captivated by flowers. Creating organized chaos through color, texture, and floral harmony allows my passion to meet my need for order and balance. As with all things in life, flowers transition, losing color and becoming too fragile to handle. I wanted to preserve the flower’s integrity. I explored, experimented and found that resin allows me to fully encapsulate the beauty of each flower. These encapsulations

serve as beautiful mementos of your special day. I preserve wedding bouquets to honor those memories and allow them to be cherished forever.

At what point did you realize that you could turn your craft into a business?

While I had opportunities to work with florists in my younger years, the need for stability became prominent, and I shelved the passion to work in a corporate setting. In 2020, when the rest of the world was shutting down, my passion was opening, and I returned to my dream of having my own flower business. Finding myself at a crossroads, waves of self-doubt and fear washed over me. Rather than repeating, ‘I can’t,’ I listened to people who

believed in me and leaned on the support of my amazing husband. The question of ‘HOW can I?’ became ‘how can I NOT?’ I took the leap of faith, bet on myself and put the work into creating my business on my terms and making Forage & Flower my full-time priority.

How do you define success for your creative business?

Success is typically defined by financial gain. While that is one version of success, I believe that there is more to it than that. Success is creating a piece that a bride loves, reminding her of a beautiful moment in time. Success is betting on myself and continuing to learn and gain more. Success is fully following my passion and sharing it with others.

Where do you find inspiration?

Beauty is all around us—nature inspires me most. I love incorporating foraged materials into my arrangements, creating one-of-akind pieces. Sometimes we need to remind ourselves to slow down a little bit and appreciate our surroundings.

appreciate the journey. Always be open to learning new lessons.

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

I am, and always will be, a huge Excel nerd. I put everything into a spreadsheet.

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

Preserving flowers in resin is an art form that feeds my OCD soul. Timing, temperature, accuracy and lots of patience are required. Although there are many things that need to be perfect to create the piece, there can always be a flower that won’t cooperate, a bubble in the resin or another difficulty to overcome. I try to view these hurdles as opportunities to learn and improve my craft. Sometimes the obstacles result in a happy accident, reminding me perfect isn’t real and there is beauty in every piece.

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

Ask for help. You gain insight by asking questions. Bet on yourself. Take pride in what you do and

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

I was surprised at how many directions you can take with your craft. I am always learning and finding new foraged pieces, arrangements and combinations of colors and textures that spring into 1000 new ideas.

Running a business brings joys and challenges. What advice would you give to someone about handling the highs and lows?

My first year in business was an emotional rollercoaster. There were days when I felt like I was on top of the world and others where I just couldn’t get out of my own way. Having a solid support system was so important. Surround yourself with people that believe in you. When you hit those lows, take a moment to remind yourself of why you started your business.

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

Yes, I have received criticism before. It can sting a little bit to hear someone critique your work, but

My first year in business was an emotional rollercoaster. There were days when I felt like I was on top of the world and others where I just couldn’t get out of my own way. Having a solid support system was so important. Surround yourself with people that believe in you. When you hit those lows, take a moment to remind yourself of why you started your business.

I try to embrace it. When you are selling your work, listening to the voice of your customer is important. Constructive criticism can help you improve your craft and become a better artist and entrepreneur.

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

Flowers possess healing properties and bring joy and peace. What Cheer is a nonprofit urban flower farm dedicated to bringing solace, joy and healing to the people of Rhode Island via flowers. The organization also supports our local floral economy through job training. They give away 100,000 flowers per year to hospitals, hospices, food pantries, senior services, recovery centers and

shelters in Rhode Island. You can learn more at www.whatcheerfarm.org.

What brings you joy?

Spending time with my husband Matt and our dog Murphy. We love to go to the beach during the off-season and comb the beach for treasures. I also love caring for my small garden.

Thanks, Jennifer! You can learn more about Forage & Flower and custom floral preservation at forageandflowerpvd.com.

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity. All photos provided courtesy of the interviewee.

FROM CORPORATE TO CREATIVE ENTREPRENEUR: HOW ELLEN JENNY WATKINS REKINDLED HER ARTISTIC FLAME

Ellen Jenny Watkins is a heart-healing abstract artist, author and certified coach who uses art and creativity for transformation and personal growth. Although being an artist entrepreneur was always in Ellen’s heart, she pursued a corporate career and stayed on the path for over two decades. Despite achieving success and stability, her deep-seated yearning for creative expression remained unfulfilled. One night, a breakdown at the dinner table led Ellen to rethink her path. Uncover how Ellen got unstuck by pursuing an artistic career that helps others.

How did you get started creating your art?

Do you know what it’s like to have a spiritual download and get a calling from a power greater than you? That’s what happened to me. It started in college as I went through an architecture major and had to take an art

class. It was during an afternoon of painting that semester that I had a spiritual download and knew from that moment that my purpose was to create art. So, I changed my major, and the rest is history—until I thought I had cancer and ended up joining the corporate world so I could have insurance.

It turned out fine; I didn’t have cancer (thank god!), but I stopped creating and spent the next 25 years in the corporate world. I found a niche in global technology training and coaching top Fortune 100 sales and marketing teams.

It was during that time, after I’d checked all the right boxes and did all the right things that society tells us to do, that I had a messy crying breakdown one night at the dinner table when my kind husband simply asked, ‘How was your day?’ I looked at him and my 4-year-old son and thought,

‘How is this possible?’ I made such strategic, conscious decisions, and now I’m sitting here crying at the dinner table! I looked at my son and realized I was telling him he could do anything, and yet I was showing him that he’d end up miserable and crying at the table.

That was not OK, and it sent me on a deeply personal journey to find out how to find my joy and fulfillment. This is when I realized it was because I stopped creating. That’s when the second part of the story takes place and leads me to where I am today.

When did you realize that you could turn your artwork into a business?

I knew it instinctively while in college and took a business minor. I’ve always been aware there are two parts: creating art and the business of selling art.

After I returned to creating, it was a natural evolution to combine

my years of corporate training and coaching with art to help other people connect to their creativity and back to their soul.

I know what it’s like to be a hidden creative in the corporate world and not feel inspired or that you are being true to yourself. Now, I help women connect back to themselves and have their own personal transformation through art.

How do you define success?

Consistently showing up is number one. Just by doing that, it’s a success. Then there are other markers that are more personal for everyone—paintings completed, revenue, sales numbers, collectors, etc.

And for me personally, it’s about connection. If I can make a connection—to myself and for others to themselves—that’s the best success of all.

Where do you find inspiration?

So many places, and I like to play in the space where modern science is proving ancient wisdom. Life, nature, quantum physics, chakras, neuroscience, astrology and spiritual connection.

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

Be willing to get help sooner and move beyond the idea that you have to be able to do all the things because you’re the boss, and you should know these things. This is one of the lessons from corporate—be willing to build a team and let everyone play their area of expertise.

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

Start—generate sales and energy around it and raise prices as you go.

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

I recently completed a certification as an Akashic Records Consultant.

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

That’s a big one for me because I get stuck by it a lot. I have such a vision in my mind that I get analysis paralysis and hesitate to start. I have a life lesson that I teach, which is ‘Just One Mark.’ It’s a lesson I learned from my husband—he takes one action on all the projects he has. So the next day, he’s one step closer on everything than he was the day before.

I often use this to help overcome starting—make just one mark every day, over and over again. Some days you do more, but at least there’s consistent action every day.

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

How much work it really is. Prioritizing time and having some sort of personal time-management system is helpful.

What’s your advice for handling the highs and lows of running a business?

Keep going. Even when it’s hard, and you’re walking through the mud, keep making one step after another. You may lose a shoe, but eventually, you’ll get to the other side and figure out the next steps. Has someone ever criticized your work? How did you handle it?

I’ve learned through the years that feedback is important, and I’ve always thought that every human has a right to their own opinion. But it’s hard for me. Rejection sensitivity is a real thing. Compartmentalizing it helps. And other times, it just takes some time to get over it.

What causes are you passionate about?

Cancer research and autism education are two causes I am passionate about.

What brings you joy?

Being in nature. Hanging with my family and friends.

Thanks, Ellen! You can learn more about her work at ellenwatkins.com

Editor’s Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

All photos courtesy of the interviewee.

Why Community is Important for Artist Entrepreneurs

By Tammie Bennett

Being a creative entrepreneur can feel very lonely and it can be hard to motivate yourself to show up and do the work. One way to combat the loneliness and overthinking is to join a community of other crafters, artists or creative entrepreneurs. We are lucky to live in a time when you can find an online community for almost any interest. Whether the community is in person or virtual, here are some benefits of finding a place where you belong.

1. It feels good to know you aren’t the only one. Creative entrepreneurship has so many hard parts and it can feel like we’re doing it “wrong.” But when we see other creative business owners going through similar struggles, it makes us feel less alone and less broken. Oh, you mean we aren’t the only ones who had a broken link in an email or had a shipping issue with a supplier? It’s comforting to know our struggles aren’t unique to us.

2. You create more work. Many communities offer co-working calls, also known as body doubling, where people come together in person or virtually to work on their projects together. I’ve seen people complete screenplays, grant proposals, workshop lessons, emails, and huge art pieces because they work on them “with” others in their online community on these co-working calls. When you’re working alone, it can be hard to get yourself to sit down and DO the thing, but when you have others on the call it makes it easier to show up to your work.

3. Accountability. When you state your goals out loud, others watch and support

you. This can lead to a sense of external accountability. In the show up society, we recently had accountability month. Each participant created a list of tasks to finish in the month and assigned points to each one, depending on difficulty or discomfort level. Participants were split into teams and tried to score more points than the other teams. The community members completed record numbers of tasks and had fun doing it. Nobody wanted to let their teammates down so the external accountability proved to be very helpful.

4. You get good advice and resources. It feels hard to make decisions on your own, but having community members as a sounding board can help you think of the options and choose the one that works best for you. Community members will often point you to helpful resources, too, so you don’t have to spend as much time going down rabbit holes on the internet.

5. You gain confidence in yourself and your work. Showing your work to members of your community and receiving helpful and kind feedback makes you feel better about putting it out into the world. You get to “practice” showing your work in the group where it is safe because you feel supported. When you’ve built confidence from showing it to your group, you feel better about showing it to the world at large.

Tammie Bennett is a mindset coach for athletes and creatives. You can learn more about her work at showupsociety.com/tsus.

T H E S H O W U P S O C I E T Y

you have something to offer the world and are ready to make it happen you are ready to find time for you and your work you are ready to be brave and show up for yourself and your craft you are ready to put your dreams and goals higher on your priority list you want more eyes on your work you want more sales, and/or more opportunities you are willing to try things and allow fun you are willing to build belief in yourself you are open to the possibility to make big things happen you like supporting and lifting others

coaching from certified mindset coach tammie b tt weekly calls - teaching, coaching, Q+A co-working calls - get your projects done! private online community on the circle app challenges and workshops to apply what you ’ re supportive and fun community tips to build your business

About Artisan Joy

Artisan Joy’s mission is to amplify the work of creative entrepreneurs, chronicle the positive impact of art, craft and creativity on the economy and community, foster connection among creative business owners, inform the public about the work of artists and artisans, and educate artists and artisans about small business ownership through interview journalism.

Artisan Joy is an organization exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3) and is further classified as a public charity under IRC Section 509(a)(2).

Your support directly impacts our ability to produce high-quality content and champion the creative community.

Become an Artisan Joy Amplifier for just $99. As an Amplifier, you'll receive our beautifully crafted magazine right to your doorstep. But that's not all—$74 of your support is taxdeductible, allowing you to help our mission while enjoying a tax benefit.

Become an Artisan Joy Amplifier and Subscriber @ bit.ly/supportAJ or scan code.

Photo by Houston Vandergriff.