Artisan Joy, Issue 4

Artisan Joy TM

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

MEET INDIE YARN DYER + ACTIVIST ADELLA COLVIN

Adella Colvin Photo Credit: Lynsey Weatherspoon.

Background Photo: LolaBean Yarn Co. Images provided courtesy of LolaBean Yarn Co.

ISSUE 4 INSPIRATION Explore How Creative Business Owners Drive Social Change

SHOPPING Discover Handcrafted Goods to Express Your Personal Style

BUSINESS TIPS Get Advice for Running a Creative Company From Successful Founders

ARTISTS AREN’T STARVING THEY’re struggling.

Need help? We’ve got it!

Get practical art and money making solutions with mintmaven.co

Contents

Editor’s Letter

Editor’s Letter

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Crafting Change: How Adella Colvin Knits Social Justice Into Her Hand-Dyed Yarn Business

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How This Designer Creates Community Through Meaningful Jewelry

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Palm Leaves to Plates: Meet the Founder of Dtocs

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Art 2 the Extreme Founder Nicole Lewis on Her Success With Etsy and Beyond

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How This Bling Artist Makes Ordinary Items Sparkle

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How a Knee Injury Became the Catalyst for This CBD-Infused Bodycare Company

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This Visual Storyteller Helps Brands Stand Out Through Art: Meet Rekha Krishnamurthi

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Beyond the Name: Tyler Ellis On Carving Her Own Legacy in Luxury Fashion

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Designer Janyelle Milton On How Living with M.S. Inspired Her to Start a Shoe Brand

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Founder Lindsay Tarnoff On Changing the World With Chocolate

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How This Designer Promotes Body Positivity And Inclusivity With Handmade Earrings

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Kindling a Candle Business: Meet Danielle McLaughlin

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ach artist/artisan featured in this issue has an inspiring founder’s story. But what’s even more moving is how they use their businesses for good. From empowering marginalized communities to supporting environmental causes, their unwavering commitment to making a difference is truly praiseworthy.

These entrepreneurs not only focus on building successful ventures but also strive to create a positive impact on their local communities and beyond. Their dedication serves as a reminder that creative entrepreneurship has the power to drive meaningful change.

Artisan Joy is a space where creative entrepreneurs are heard, valued and celebrated for their positive impacts on the economy and society. I hope you enjoy Issue 4.

From Sea to Canvas: A Conversation with Artist and 43 Entrepreneur Mary Jameson

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 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. ©2023 Contact Us Words N More Creative LLC dba Artisan Joy PO BOX 336 Barrington, RI 02806 hello@artisanjoy.com Subscribe to the print edition of Artisan Joy at artisanjoy. com/print-subscription.

Artwork By Mary Jameson

Seaweed Dreams Series Ocean Cascade I Cyanotype and Seaweed Collage on Rag Paper

Headshot Photo Credit: Lynsey Weatherspoon. Provided courtesy of Adella Colvin.

CRAFTING CHANGE:

HOW ADELLA COLVIN KNITS SOCIAL JUSTICE INTO HER HAND-DYED YARN BUSINESS

M

eet Adella Colvin, the founder of LolaBean Yarn Co., a brand of custom hand-dyed luxury yarns for knitting and crocheting. Growing up in the Bronx, Adella never imagined becoming a yarn dyer. That part of her story began when she moved from New York City to a small town in Georgia.

“I had moved to Grovetown, Georgia from New York City to be with my husband Jimmy, who was living and working there as a government contractor. He also had two sons, so it made sense for me to move.

Back then, Grovetown had a population of four. There was a Cracker Barrel, Walmart, and a gas station. In comparison to New York City, it was a drastic

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change. And to top it all off, they sent my husband to Afghanistan to teach. So now I’m in a new place by myself. My husband introduced me to his neighbor Bonnie. She was a retired schoolteacher in her late 60s from Battle Creek, Michigan. We had absolutely nothing in common. You know, different generations, different socioeconomic backgrounds. She was white. I was black and Spanish.

So just totally different people,” Adella said.

After Jimmy left for Afghanistan, Bonnie invited Adella over for coffee, which she was less than thrilled about. “I didn’t want to go have a cup of coffee with Bonnie. I’m a New Yorker. What are we going to talk about? But my mother also told me not

to be rude. And I went over to Bonnie’s house for a cup of coffee. When I walked in, she had these beautiful German-style curtains. She had a Singer sewing machine from like 1922 that still worked. She had little decorations all over her house that I thought were just so cute. And I asked where she bought them, and she chuckled and said, ‘I didn’t buy this stuff. I made it.’”

During the visit, Adella expressed an interest in learning to crochet someday. “Bonnie ran to another room and came back with a white ball of yarn, a crochet hook, and a learnto-crochet book and handed them to me. And that just blossomed into probably one of the most profound and meaningful friendships I’ve ever had with a

One day, Adella ventured into a yarn shop to fuel her fiber passion. “I stepped one foot in the door. I hadn’t even gotten the second foot in and the owner said to me, ‘Oh no, my bathroom is for customers only.’

And, as much as I’ve dealt with microaggressions and people making assumptions based on what I look like, it always feels new. Every time it happens, it’s such a punch in the gut.

“

I think I had on ripped jeans and a hoodie, and my afro was really big at that time.

And she saw me, and she just assumed that I wasn’t there to purchase yarn because people who knit and crochet and craft don’t look like me. So I left.

“

person. Bonnie taught me how to crochet. She taught me how to knit. She introduced me to yarn shops.”

The disheartening encounter was a pivotal moment for Adella. The lack of welcoming yarn shops in the area inspired her to experiment with dyeing yarn at home. “I went online, and I started looking at different yarns. I looked up hand-dyed yarn. After watching a couple of YouTube videos, I tried it.”

Continue reading Adella’s Q&A to see how she went from experimenting with yarn dyeing to becoming a hugely successful business owner and strong advocate for social justice. Also, find inspiration in how Adella rises above prejudice, is building a legacy for her daughter, and uses her platform as a force for good.

How did you begin selling yarn?

I was in a bunch of crafting groups on Facebook, and I posted photos of what I made with no intentions of selling. That was the furthest thing from my mind. I got a really warm reception. And one lady wrote, ‘That is so beautiful. How much would you charge for it?’ And that was it. That was the moment. And I just kept dyeing and playing around with colors.

Initially, my business was called Adella’s Crochet Cottage, and I would be in different Facebook groups that allowed selling,

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in the LGBTQ+ community are being treated and people are still being killed by police. It was just horrible. And I wanted to do something because I brought this baby into the world who did not ask to be a part of it.

That’s when I rebranded and became LolaBean because my daughter’s name is Lola.

and people would order through those groups. That became just too much to manage, and I moved over to Etsy. I was with Etsy for a couple of years before I decided to set up an online store through Weebly. From Weebly, I moved to Shopify, which is perfect for me. It’s doing what it’s supposed to do.

Can you share why you rebranded from Adella’s Crochet Cottage to LolaBean Yarn Co.?

I initially started out as Adella’s Crochet Cottage. I wasn’t very much into showing myself. A lot of times people see black makers and think inferior product or that they can haggle with your prices. It’s always been a thing. So, the more yarn I show you, the less me I show you. I should be safe, right?

You continue to buy from me.

You will continue to pay my prices. You know, I’m charging the same as everyone else. I did that for a very long time until I had my daughter in 2016.

And I’m looking at this little butterball of a baby. The most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen in my entire life, and I thought that I’m not doing enough to make the world better for her.

I’m looking around at what’s happening, and not just racism, but capitalism. How our friends

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Tell us about your work as an activist and how you use your business as a platform for good.

I started to become more vocal in 2016 and 2017 and show my face. I learned that you can be an activist through crafting. You can raise money with crafting for organizations that are fighting for social justice and trying to make the world fair for everyone. You can do this with your craft.

And then, we moved into 2019, 2020. Now, my business was on a pretty solid trajectory. I was growing at a very healthy pace, a pace that I could control, and I wasn’t overworked. And then George Floyd was murdered.

Whenever something really traumatic happens in the Black community, this wave of support comes at you all at once. People were looking for Black small business owners to support and amplify. So that’s when my business really started to pick up.

And, at first, I felt really guilty about it because this man died. But then I realized that we couldn’t let it be in vain. I have all these eyes on me; we’re going to take this opportunity to spread our message and what LolaBean Yarn Company stands for, what we believe in, what we feel is right, what we feel is wrong. And we’re also

going to use this opportunity to make as much money as we can, not just to grow our business, but to donate to different organizations that are helping people, whether it be Everytown for Gun Safety, the Black Mental Health Alliance, the National Black Doulas Association, the Trevor Project, the Black Trans Women Collective. You can do that with all of this attention. This horrible thing happened and we can’t change it. We can’t bring him back. The best way to honor those who are no longer with us is to take care of the ones left behind. And that’s what I try to do.

What do you think about your success?

It’s a blessing, especially with the circumstances under which I grew up. After my mom retired from the military, we fell on hard times. I’m talking food stamps, government assistance.

We were in homeless shelters for a little while. I know what it’s like to be without. I know what it’s like to struggle. I never imagined that I would ever have my own business, let alone like a yarn-dyeing business. Where I come from, you grow up, maybe you go to college, maybe you get a job, maybe you have a kid or two. And that’s as far as it goes. I really didn’t think that my business or I would have that big of an impact on so many people. I never dreamed it. I feel very grateful. I feel very blessed and fortunate. But there’s still that part of me that’s thinking, ‘Do you deserve this?

You’re just like this kid that grew up in the Bronx. It’s imposter syndrome and an internal struggle.

Tell us more about your mom’s influence on you.

When you’ve been on Section 8, on food stamps, you know what it feels like to go without.

You know how awful it can feel. Maybe your jeans really don’t fit, but you have to wear them because you don’t have anything else. And kids at school are making fun of you because of that. I hate those feelings, and I hate to see other people struggle. I hate to see other people go without, especially when there are means to help people. It literally pains me.

My mom came from humble beginnings: seven siblings, a two-bedroom apartment in the South Bronx, poorest congressional district in the United States, back in the sixties and seventies. Once she was able to get on her feet after leaving the military without resources, she started going to school and became an LPN. Then it turned into a bachelor’s degree, and then it turned into a master’s degree, and then it turned into all of these different certifications.

She has been offered jobs with very high salaries, which she declined. She will not leave the South Bronx, where she teaches people. She taught students for so long who were coming into the country, and her heart was in helping people in the same community where she grew up to help them make it and be okay. And she instilled a lot of that in me and in my brother.

to rein me in. So, he’s really good at that. But Jimmy’s also very confident in who he is and what his place in my world is.

And because of that, he’s always so supportive. Wherever I need him, whatever I need. You might have some partners who know what you do. They understand what you do. They care, but it’s not that big of a thing for them.

Jimmy’s learned to knit to see first-hand how people work with my yarn.

What does his support mean to you?

When people ask, what is it that you do for a living? And you say, independent yarn dyer—you know that people don’t take art as seriously as they should.

Art is what got people—those who were fortunate enough—to get through the first days of the pandemic. It was art. It was music. It was the art of cooking, learning to bake bread.

Michelle Obama talks about how she learned to knit. If it wasn’t for art, we wouldn’t have made it. And I don’t think people understand that. My husband always saw and appreciated my business. He never

downplayed it. He never belittled me. And that was instrumental in continuing to grow my business.

What resources did you use to learn how to dye yarn?

Most of the information I got was from YouTube. The science of dyeing I got from YouTube and from the book, “Hand Dyeing Yarn and Fleece” [Gail Callahan, Storey Publishing].

Choosing the colorways for my yarn came from experimenting with colors and not taking myself too seriously.

What’s your advice for people who are new to dyeing yarn?

Just try things out. Don’t be afraid to mess up because you’re going to burn yarn. You’re going to make yarn that looks like mud. I’ve done that. There are so many things you’re going to do wrong, but it’s all going to take you in the right direction.

Thanks, Adella! You can learn more about LolaBean Yarn Co. and purchase yarn at lolabeanyarnco.com.

Unless indicated in photo credit, photos

by LolaBean Yarn Co. and provided courtesy of the company.

What is your husband’s role in your business?

He has his own career, a 9-5 job. But after work, he calls me to ask if I need help with anything like washing pans or labeling.

And he’ll come to my dye studio, and he’ll jump in.

He teaches me how be a little more measured in my approach. Sometimes when I am passionate about something, it’s hard

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HOW THIS DESIGNER CREATES COMMUNITY THROUGH MEANINGFUL JEWELRY

H

olly Daniels Christensen began making jewelry using local sand from Cape Cod, Mass., at her kitchen table—gifting the pieces to friends and family. Their enthusiastic reactions led Holly to believe she was on to something.

She soon discovered that many people like holding a special place close through keepsake jewelry.

So in 2010, Dune Jewelry was born.

Today, Dune Jewelry handcrafts jewelry and accessories using sand and earth elements from thousands of iconic and memorable locations around the world. “We create tangible reminders of life’s best moments.

Every design is personalized with sand or elements from somewhere special to the customer, such as sand from the beach where they honeymooned, crushed granite from an incredible hike in the Rockies or flowers from a special wedding.

Every piece is unique,” Holly said.

The entrepreneur’s story is inspiring, as Holly didn’t let a turbulent childhood define her

Credit: Samantha Robshaw Photography.

Provided courtesy of Dune Jewelry.

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future. Not only does Dune Jewelry delight its customers with meaningful designs—it also builds community through charitable partnerships.

How did you begin making jewelry?

I started at my kitchen table creating jewelry for friends and family. I was looking for a creative outlet while working in the Boston real estate market.

Every time I saw the people I gifted, they were wearing my designs, and they began asking if they could purchase items crafted with different sand locations. Of course, I said yes,

and the business ideas began to form in my brain.

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

I realized that I could turn my artwork into a business after I began taking pieces to local arts and crafts shows and selling out. Once people realized that the designs held actual sand from their favorite places, they were in love with the sentimental value. At one of the shows, I met a sales representative who asked if she could take some designs to local shops, and I agreed. From there, things really took off.

Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

Mother Earth, the ocean, our customers, my daughters. I find inspiration at odd moments throughout the day. It comes in waves and can be gone just as quickly as it arrives.

How do you apply that inspiration to your work?

Our designs have distinct artistic boundaries, which can seem restrictive to an artist at times, but the businessperson in me always finds a way to move forward. Each piece has to have room to add sand and earth elements along with the jeweler’s resin that we use, and the size of sand varies dramatically. Sometimes, it’s 1mm, sometimes, it’s 2mm, and it’s always misshapen. The designs need to be flexible so the application can work with all the different and unique elements.

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

I dropped out of high school and left home when I was 15 due to a tumultuous

upbringing. I find it an interesting point in my history because I was able to turn it around and create a life that’s dramatically different from what I experienced as a child.

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

I continuously use the phrase ‘Done is better than perfect.’ In my experience, I’ve learned to let the sheer joy of completing something overshadow the creeping doubt that is always in the back of my mind, wondering, is it good enough?

It has taken years of practice to change my mindset, but I’m so happy that I did. Perfect is never perfect. There is no such thing.

Art is subjective, and that’s what makes it so incredible.

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

Every day is a roller coaster when you run your own business. You have to learn to work through difficult situations and continue to put one foot in front of the other. Momentum and confidence in your intuition are key.

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”

What advice would you give to someone who feels vulnerable about putting their work out into the world?

Do it! The world deserves to see what you’ve been working on, and you deserve to share it with the world. We’re all here for a very brief moment in time, so why not take some chances? It hurts when someone doesn’t like your work, but at the end of the day—who cares?

Really, do you really care, or is your ego just a little burned? Pick yourself up and keep going, keep creating, keep being you. You matter!

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

All the time and I simply thank them for their feedback. They are allowed to speak their mind, right? But you can only control how you react to the criticism—so thank them for their feedback and move on.

Their opinion shouldn’t affect your confidence.

Creatives are often very in tune with what’s happening in the world. Sometimes, it can feel overwhelming. How do you cope?

Yes, absolutely. Oftentimes, the world feels like it’s falling down around all of us, but I firmly believe that you have to set boundaries on how deeply you dive into the news and current events. You have to know what is happening, but you do not have to spend 18 hours in a rabbit hole of doom

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and gloom. It’s not going to help the situation. What helps the situation is being proactive and taking care of your own mental health to ensure that the people around you feel safe and supported. If you can begin creating a stable community around you, the hope is that it begins to spread. If you have a larger platform, you can definitely create educational content and fundraisers as well, which will help you to feel more in control of what is happening.

What are you passionate about?

Our ocean is the lifeblood of our planet, and we continue to treat it like a garbage disposal. It’s absolute insanity if you really think about it. Here, we are spending billions to take joy rides to space when, realistically, we could be exploring our oceans and finding ways to sustain this beautiful planet we live on. Dune Jewelry

has collaborated with 4ocean in their efforts to clean our oceans of plastic pollution. With their collaboration, they have pulled over 15,000 pounds in just one year.

Additionally, Dune Jewelry has donated over $250,000 to multiple charities over the past five years through our online Give Back events, and coastal preservation is a good portion of that. We love the Surfrider Foundation and Mission Blue.

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about the Surfrider Foundation at surfrider.org and Mission Blue at missionblue.org.

What brings you joy?

My most joyful moments appear when I achieve harmony in my life. If my children and husband are happy along with my team members and colleagues, that’s pure bliss. It’s rare but wonderful. Having 30plus people counting on you can be a challenge, but I take one day at a time, and I do the best I can. That’s all I can do.

Thanks, Holly! In addition to running Dune Jewelry, Holly is the author of “Happiness Comes in Waves: Life Lessons from the Ocean” (Quarto Publishing).

You can learn more about Dune Jewelry and shop their products at dunejewelry.com.

Unless indicated in photo credit, photos

by Dune Jewelry. Provide courtesy of Dune Jewelry.

Credit: Samantha Robshaw Photography.

Provided courtesy of Dune Jewelry.

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Credit: Ranjani Barnes of Grace Photography. Courtesy of Pallavi Pande.

Palm Leaves to Plates:

MEET THE FOUNDER OF DTOCS Tell us about Dtocs.

I remember eating on banana leaves while growing up in India. I wanted to bring this concept to the Western world.

I started my brand, Dtocs, inspired by the word ‘detox’: a cleansing journey with palm leaves for the environment— with sustainability, usability and community in mind. We create sustainable single-use disposable dinnerware made from naturally fallen palms for households and the food and hospitality industry, handcrafted by women artisans in India.

We’re doing our bit to make the world more green. We give back 1% of our proceeds to the majority female workforce that manufactures our products in India.

Credit: Ranjani Barnes of Grace Photography. Courtesy of Pallavi Pande.

C

hildhood memories of eating on banana leaves in India inspired Pallavi Pande to bring the concept to the West. Now living in Portland, Oregon, Pallavi founded Dtocs, a sustainable brand of single-use tableware created from naturally fallen palm leaves. Pallavi is on a mission to replace paper and plastic single-use tableware with Dtocs. Join us as we dive deep into her founder’s story and learn more about Dtocs, a BIPOC- and women-owned small business.

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

When we first began crafting our palm leaf tableware, it was purely out of love for nature and the art of crafting.

However, as more people saw and experienced our creations, we received overwhelming feedback about the unique blend of sustainability, artistry and functionality. The turning point was probably at a local eco-fair, where our tableware received immense attention.

People were not only buying them but also inquiring about bulk orders for events, showing us there was a demand in both the retail and B2B sectors.

This demand, coupled with increasing global awareness about sustainability and the harmful effects of single-use plastics, made us realize that Dtocs wasn’t just a creative endeavor but had the potential to be a full-fledged business.

We then began scaling our production, expanding our product range and venturing into e-commerce and B2B channels, marking our transition from a passion project to a business with a mission to promote sustainability without compromising aesthetics.

How did you figure out how to get your products made?

Once we were confident in our product market and story, the next big challenge was manufacturing. We researched extensively for co-packers and co-manufacturers who aligned with our vision of sustainability.

Given the nature of the raw material, it was crucial for us to find the right partners in India, where palm leaves are abundant and where traditional craftsmanship could bring our vision to life.

After several rounds of vetting, site visits and negotiating terms, we formed partnerships that allowed us to scale production while maintaining quality and eco-friendliness.

These collaborations were instrumental in turning Dtocs from an idea into a tangible product with the help of our women workers who are involved in handcrafting the products with love and care.

Our mission at Dtocs goes beyond sustainability; it’s about empowering women.

We’ve partnered with manufacturers in India that employ local women artisans, providing them with fair wages and a safe working environment. Each piece of our palm leaf tableware is not just ecofriendly, but also a testament to their craftsmanship. By doing so, we’re driving positive change both in the community and in the market.

For me, as a mompreneur, this adds a layer of fulfillment, knowing that our business doesn’t just focus on profit, but also has a meaningful social impact.

How do you define success for your creative business?

For Dtocs, success can be defined as: Sustainability impact: Foremost, success means making a tangible impact on the environment by reducing single-use plastics. Every event that chooses our tableware over plastic is a win for the planet.

Customer satisfaction: When our clients commend the aesthetic appeal and functionality of our products and come back for repeat purchases, we know we’re on the right track.

Innovation and Evolution: As a creative business, we’re constantly evolving our product range and ensuring it is in line with market trends and customer preferences.

Financial Stability: While our primary goal is impact-driven, achieving consistent profitability and financial growth ensures we can continue our mission sustainably.

Brand recognition: Becoming a go-to name in sustainable tableware and being recognized for our unique blend of artistry and environmental responsibility.

Expanding Reach: Success also means growing our customer base, reaching new markets, and forming partnerships that amplify our mission.

Employee well-being: As a business that prioritizes ethical practices, the well-being and growth of our team members are integral to our success definition. Ultimately, success for Dtocs means harmoniously blending our creative vision with our mission for sustainability, achieving business growth while making a positive impact on the environment and society.

Where do you find inspiration?on?

“

I find inspiration in nature’s unparalleled beauty, especially in the majestic palm trees. Their resilience and versatility remind me of the blend of sustainability and elegance we aim to capture in every piece of our tableware.

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the business, from marketing strategies to problem-solving in supply chain challenges. While our tableware is inherently artistic, finding creative solutions in business operations has been equally rewarding and vital to our brand’s success.

Photo by Ranjani Barnes of Grace Photography. Courtesy of Pallavi Pande.

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

I wish someone had told me that while passion drives a business, it’s the constant adaptation to market needs and meticulous planning that sustains it. Embrace change, and always be ready to evolve.

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

Authenticity is key. Stay true to your vision, but also be receptive to feedback. Understand your audience and market trends, but don’t compromise your unique voice. Consistency in quality, persistent marketing and networking can open many doors. Always continue learning and refining your craft.

Remember, every big brand once started as an idea; passion, dedication, and resilience will set you apart.

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

Many might be surprised to learn that before venturing into sustainable tableware, I

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pursued a degree in electrical engineering. The analytical skills from my academic background, combined with a passion for sustainable living, led to the birth of Dtocs. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, life’s unexpected turns can lead us to our true calling.

How do you handle perfectionism?

Perfectionism is a double-edged sword. While it ensures the high quality of our products, it can also slow progress. Over time, I’ve learned that the inherent beauty of our palm leaf tableware lies in its natural imperfections. Instead of striving for a factory-made uniformity, we embrace each piece’s unique texture and pattern. This has taught me that, often, perfection is found in celebrating natural variations rather than trying to mold everything into an idealized form.

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

One surprising element of was discovering that creativity isn’t confined to product design.

It permeates every aspect of

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

Embracing the journey is essential. Celebrate every high, no matter how small, as it’s a testament to your hard work and vision. But equally, when facing challenges, remember they are opportunities for growth. Stay grounded during the highs and hopeful during the lows. Always keep your mission in sight, seek support from peers and mentors, and ensure self-care is a priority.

Resilience and adaptability are key to navigating the everevolving landscape of business.

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

Yes, like any business, we’ve Photo by Ranjani Barnes of Grace Photography.

Courtesy of Pallavi Pande.

faced criticism. Initially, it was challenging as we poured our heart into our products. Over time, I’ve learned to differentiate between constructive feedback and mere negativity.

Constructive criticism is a chance to improve and innovate. I thank the individual for their perspective, evaluate the feedback, and see how it aligns with our brand’s vision.

Not all feedback will result in changes, but being open to it is essential for growth.

Credit: Ranjani Barnes of Grace Photography.

Courtesy of Pallavi Pande.

In addition to sustainability, what’s another cause close to your heart?

Our brand champions the well-being of our female workforce in India. We’re devoted to supporting Greater Than, a non-profit working to transform public education for underrepresented and historically excluded students.

We also sponsor the education of children from underserved Indian communities, underlining our unwavering commitment to societal upliftment.

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about Greater Than at greater-than.org.

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?

One pivotal aspect that’s transformed our business is our Amazon small business certification. It resonates deeply with consumers by highlighting our true essence of being different from the competition and reasons to back us. This certification amplifies our ethos of supporting women-led, local ventures.

What brings you joy?

What brings me immense joy is witnessing the positive impact our sustainable products have on the environment. Every time a customer chooses Dtocs over a non-eco-friendly alternative, I feel a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, seeing our team’s dedication, especially our women workers

in India, thriving and benefiting from our mission, truly warms my heart. These small victories remind me why I embarked on this journey.

Thanks, Pallavi! You can learn more about Dtocs at dtocs.com.

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Credit: Kelli White Photography.

Provided courtesy of Nicole Lewis.

ART 2 THE EXTREME FOUNDER NICOLE LEWIS ON HER SUCCESS WITH ETSY AND BEYOND 15

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n her first year of teaching elementary school art, Nicole Lewis began upcycling broken crayons. She planned a kindergarten art lesson on texture rubbings and created her first multi-colored crayons by melting the broken crayon bits in wax cups. Nicole’s students loved them, which inspired her to make different crayon shapes and open an Etsy store in 2007—she was the first artist to create and sell a handmade crayon online via her Art 2 the Extreme® Etsy store. A few years ago, the artist began creating crayons using 3D molds of her own drawings.

Fast forward to today, and the creative entrepreneur has made over 57,000 sales on Etsy and even created a custom crayon for The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). Additionally, Art 2 the Extreme was selected as Joanna Gaines’ top gift for kids in the winter 2022 issue of Magnolia Journal.

Describe your craft.

Art 2 the Extreme specializes in customized and personalized crayons. I create specialty crayons that provide a unique option for art supplies and gifts for various ages. We’re best known for our Personalized Name Original Rainbow Crayons® and customization for business logos and special events. I was the first artist to create and sell a handmade crayon online as well.

How did you get started making personalized crayons?

I first started the company in 2007 as a hobby to supplement my teaching income. When I started my side hustle, I was an art teacher looking to recycle crayons while creating a fun and functional crayon. Several of my students could not hold

a traditional crayon, and my adaptive art supplies helped solve several problems I was having in my classroom.

I left teaching in 2014 when my first son was born, and Art 2 the Extreme became my full-time job. My art has allowed me the lifestyle to stay at home with my children, grow my business and pursue my passion for crayons.

When did you realize that you could turn your craft into a full-time occupation?

When my husband and I decided to start our family, we were looking for ways to pay for daycare and avoid driving two hours a day for my job. Leaving teaching to pursue Art 2 the Extreme was the obvious choice at the time, and I never thought it was going to be as big as it has gotten today.

About five years ago, the business side of my operation really started to click, and once I adjusted a few things, the sales started flowing in—so much that we could not keep up with demand. I remember Holiday 2017 like it was yesterday. It was so exciting and frustrating at the same time because I could not produce anywhere near the demand for the holidays, often selling out during the first week in November. Customers ordered over a month ahead of time and didn’t mind too much that their order may not arrive until a week before Christmas— that was how backed up we were. I had friends, family and neighbors working around the clock in our basement, helping out with everything from peeling crayons to shipping and postal drops.

The best change so far was when my husband left his job in education in October of 2018 to

work in the business. We knew our struggles with production to keep up with demand and did not want a repeat of holiday 2017. We were able to almost double our sales in 2018 and again in 2019.

In 2020, we planned on expanding by hiring employees and setting up an off-site production studio to accommodate the growth and demand. Then COVID-19 hit.

We decided to keep the work in-house and moved to a new

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Where do you find inspiration for your products?

I absolutely love working with crayons and enjoy how the colors of our creations blend in countless ways. I am a lover of all things rainbow and inspired by bright colors and geometric designs. I often think about shapes that my boys would enjoy using. These are usually shapes that are easy to hold and manipulate the colors. Fun and functional are my goals when drawing up new designs for my molds. My Original Rainbow Crayons® are perfect for texture rubbings and were originally inspired by melting down old crayons in small wax cups with my mom as a child.

How do you apply that inspiration to your work?

My original work started from a standard circle silicone mold that you could find anywhere.

I wanted to go beyond a standard shape and create designs that are interactive, unique and make a statement.

of my work, and the kraft color reminds me of the earth and recycling efforts we make behind the scenes in our studio.

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home that could accommodate a studio and production spaces while we waited the pandemic out. We love that our new studio has a filming location for onsite interviews and lighting for future video production projects in the works.

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

I think a lot of people are surprised that I am a one-woman show for the most part.

My husband is mainly on the production side, but I handle all of my own PR (and have gotten placement in over 150 gift guides in the past year, all on my own), social media and shipping. It is challenging and exhausting, but I love the social

media side of the business because I am such a people person. I really miss in-person

markets—how I started off getting exposure for my company.

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

I embrace the imperfections and find that the fun is in the flaws. Some of my best ideas come from drawings that are a little different. Crayons are a medium that constantly changes. Once you draw with one, the shape immediately changes, and with Art 2 the Extreme crayons, the colors continuously blend and change with each. stroke and scribble.

A few years into crayon making, I started turning my own drawings into 3D molds with the help of my brother-inlaw. The first custom crayon I ever created was for The Oprah Winfrey Network. The OWN project was such a fun learning experience for me, and I became addicted to the joy of making my own designs. In my packaging, I let the crayons be the star of the show, using neutral kraft packaging. It also ties in the recycling component Credit: Qiana K Photography. Provided courtesy of Nicole Lewis.

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Credit: Qiana K Photography. Provided courtesy of Nicole Lewis.

community. For me, right now, it is focusing on projects that help others.

I work closely with a non-profit partner, Crayon Collection, which provides free crayons and art education resources to underserved communities. We donate hundreds of thousands of new and used crayons to communities and schools around the country with the help of Crayon Collection and its mission to keep crayons out of landfills and support art education.

My crayons are not made to fit perfectly in between the lines.

They are created to help artists and children think outside of the box and make the art and lines their own.

What advice would you give to someone feeling vulnerable about putting their art out into the world?

Just do it! There is no right or wrong step to begin. The hardest thing is to begin, and with each step, each day, you get better and learn so much more with experience.

I also would tell them not to compare themselves to others.

You have your own unique experiences, personality, and value you deliver in your work that cannot be copied. Stay focused on your own growth and experiences that move the needle for you! Do what you can with what you have, and do what you love!

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

Everyone has a critic. When my work is criticized, they usually do not take the time to

learn, know and understand my story and art. Usually, the critique is in the ‘I could make this myself for less’ type of comments, but that is not my ideal customer and supporter I focus on connecting with. If I inspire you to go out and make it yourself or for cheaper, go for it! Make it a teaching moment with your kids or inspiration to try something new. In the end, people buy from people. Get to know the artist behind the artwork. Get to know the faces behind your favorite brands and what they stand for. More now than ever, we are looking for a purpose and connection to others.

Creatives are often very in tune with what’s happening in the world. Sometimes, it can feel overwhelming. How do you cope?

It can feel very overwhelming. I am very much an empath and sometimes take on the feelings of others and the weight of the world around me. In my work, I try to be representative of the social issues and ways I can do my part to support others in my

Please tell us more about the Crayon Collection.

Crayon Collection’s mission is to inspire a commitment to environmental consciousness and the infusion of art education in underfunded schools. In addition to donating crayons to vulnerable classrooms, Crayon Collection partners with renowned artists such as Kenny Scharf and Annie Lapin to design and implement lesson plans that use art as a tool to teach STEM, literacy, and social-emotional learning standards.

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about Crayon Collection at crayoncollection.org.

What brings you joy?

I find joy in each day with my husband and children. They are the number one reason I create art and am building a brand around my colorful creations.

I strive to inspire and spark creativity in my boys. I love being able to provide fun art experiences for my family, and we love to travel!

Thanks, Nicole! You can learn more about Art 2 the Extreme at art2theextreme.com.

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How This Bling Artist Makes Ordinary Items Sparkle

Credit: Ciarra Photography.

Provided courtesy of Lynn Woods.

L

ynn Woods is the owner and bling artist at Back to the South Bling, an online gift shop where she sells her handcrafted sparkly goods. Learn more about Lynn and her maker business in our interview.

How did you get started with your craft?

I originally started making coffee mugs. In 2019, I realized I wanted to add something to make the cups stand out and mugs that weren’t just your everyday mugs. I am a lover of all things that sparkle. So, I decided to add bling to my mugs, which led to adding it to tumblers and other products.

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

It started with friends and family, which I think is how many of us start, right? But when their friends and family began to reach out and ask if I could create a cup or tumbler, and the orders continued to come in, it was at that point that I knew I had something.

Where do you find inspiration?

My inspiration comes from many places—nature, an outfit, shoes.

Credit: Ciarra Photography.

Provided courtesy of Lynn Woods.

I saw a pair of shoes that I loved on Instagram in baby blue, which happens to be my favorite color. I made a cup inspired by the shoe! One of the great things I love about what I do is that inspiration can come from anywhere, and there are so many design possibilities!

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

When I lived in the Washington DC area, I had my own wedding and event planning business.

This knowledge really helps when working with brides.

How do you handle perfectionism?

That is often a tough one for me, but I tell myself that part of the joy of creating is in the uniqueness of each item. I can bling a set of cups that have the same colors, but they still will not look exactly alike because of the stone placement, and in that lies the beauty.

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

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to remember that everything is not for everyone. Yes, you will have people criticize you and people who do not like your work, and that is okay! It doesn’t mean your work isn’t great; it just means that it isn’t for them.

No matter what, keep going.

Yes, I have had people say What’s a cause that you’re passionate about? they didn’t I am a community partner with the nonprofit organization No like my work Woman, No Girl, whose vision is that no woman or girl will go or ask, ‘Why without access to everyday esdoes everything sentials to survive a crisis or tranhave to be so sparkly?’ I just smile and say that I know everything isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay!

sition. I created The Safe Purple Collection, and 25% of the sales are donated to No Woman, No Girl.

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about No Woman No Girl at nowomannogirl.org.

What brings you joy?

My family and friends, traveling, hosting community bling parties and coming up with new designs!

Thanks, Lynn!

You can learn more at backtothesouthbling.com.

What advice would you give to someone who feels vulnerable about sharing their work?

It’s always so hard to put yourself out there! Even now, I still get butterflies in my stomach because sharing your art with the world is a scary and vulnerable thing. My advice is

Credit: Ciarra Photography.

Provided courtesy of Lynn Woods.

Credit: Ciarra Photography.

Provided courtesy of Lynn Woods.

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HOW AN INJURY BECAME THE CATALYST FOR THIS CBD-INFUSED BODYCARE COMPANY Photos: Sarah Gates Photography. Provided Courtesy of Laura Beohner.

A

recurring injury led Laura Beohner, co-founder of The Healing Rose Company, to explore alternative remedies for pain relief in 2016. “I dislocated my kneecap for a fourth time and found a cannabis and herbal-infused salve that changed my life. When I applied it after the very violent dislocation, I felt the pain nearly melt away, and the bruising color would change overnight after an application,” said Laura. Astounded by the salve’s effectiveness, Beohner and her fiancé Zach Mcinnis were compelled to create their own cannabis-infused tinctures. “We started making salves and lip balms in our kitchen in crockpots. After giving the first batch out to friends and family, we knew we had something special on our hands.”

What started as kitchen experiments evolved into a fully-fledged business for Laura and Zach, driven by their passion for helping people feel better. The growth of the Healing Rose Company is inspiring. Today, the business operates in a 4,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Massachusetts and has full-time employees.

Dive deeper into the story of The Healing Rose Company in Laura’s candid interview.

Tell us a bit about your products.

We focus a lot on topical products like herbal salves, bath soaks, massage and body oils, lip balms, and more, but we also have a wonderful line of organic tinctures and cannabinoid extracts.

When did you realize that you could start a business?

In April of 2017, just seven

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months after coming up with our business idea, we took a huge leap of faith, cashed out our savings, and signed a lease to a commercial space that we completely renovated ourselves to make a small manufacturing lab. We didn’t know it would work for sure, but we believed in ourselves and dove headfirst, all the way in, without reservations.

How do you define success for your creative business?

Success for us started out as just being able to create a comfortable living for ourselves while also doing the same for our employees. But I think a big part of a business’ success is the impact they have on their customers, their communities and the environment. We make sure to always consider

the triple bottom line (profit, people, planet) when we make any decisions.

Where do you find inspiration?

I find inspiration for the cannabis side of our business in the plant and the science behind it. In the hemp space, there is a lot going on with minor cannabinoids becoming more prevalent in the market.

Nothing is more fascinating to me than all that we are discovering about cannabis. For example, most people just think of THC and maybe CBD when it comes to our kind of products, but cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, CBN, THCV and CBDV are all very exciting and beneficial for our bodies.

For skincare and other wellness product inspiration, I love brands that use all organic ingredients and have a clean look to them. I try to follow different brands on social media to see what trends are going on and for packaging inspiration, as I do all our packaging design work in-house.

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

“

As a business owner, you are going to feel like you never have enough time to do everything.

This can lead to creating the 'long way' of doing repetitive things, which can lead to a lot of wasted time. Take your time to work smarter and not always just work harder.

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

Figure out how to have multiple revenue streams. Whether that means in-person events, an online store, and maybe some wholesale accounts—you cannot just rely on one way to make money. Things change, and it is important to remain flexible so you can pivot when the unplanned happens.

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

I have been a very competitive athlete my entire life and a youth sports coach for the past nine years. Currently, I am a varsity softball coach at my old high school, and I have also spent many years coaching girls’ basketball.

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

What a great question, as this is something I really struggle with when it comes to creating the design files for our products, which I do all myself via Adobe Illustrator. I want everything perfect, and sometimes, I remind myself that finishing something quickly can often be more important than trying to be perfect. As I love to remind athletes that I have coached, we learn by making mistakes. Having empathy and compassion for yourself goes a long way for us all, but especially for always critical entrepreneurs and creatives.

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

How expensive it is to run a business, especially in a state like Massachusetts, is something I didn’t anticipate.

We have always operated in a lean manner, but even still, the amount of money businesses pay in taxes, fees, insurance, rent, supplies, labor, etc. is really surprising when you first get started. It’s all worth it, but I like to advise others to give yourself plenty of profit margins to allow for long-term sustainability.

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

It is quite the roller coaster! I think understanding that there will always be ups and downs is a big part of how to handle it.

When those low moments are here, make sure to remember the high moments and know

those are on their way soon.

Making sure to eat well, sleep well, and exercise—so that you can be the best you—is a big part of it too!

Has someone ever criticized your work?

Of course! I love thoughtful feedback and helpful criticism— that is so valuable for our business, and it helps us continue to grow and be better.

If someone goes over the line, I really try not to take things personally, which is hard when your business is your baby. I am a firm believer in killing them with kindness and never lowering my frequency for someone else. Oftentimes, when people are rude or overly critical, it is them projecting, and they have something going on in their life. I come at the situation from a place of

empathy instead.

You and whatever it is that you create will never be for everyone. And that is 100 percent okay! Worry about the customers who love you and what you do and try to find more customers like them.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

We got our youngest dog Safe through Rescue Dogs Rock NYC, and we are very passionate about encouraging people to Adopt, Not Shop. Dogs make life so much better and filled with happiness and love.

just love?

Mountain Rose Herbs all day!

They have such an incredible selection of organic ingredients, and they do an amazing job supporting herbalism and herbalism-focused events.

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about Mountain Rose Herbs at mountainroseherbs.com.

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about Rescue Dogs Rock NYC at rescuedogsrocknyc.org.

What brings you joy?

What brings me the most joy is helping people with our products. We have over a thousand reviews from customers on how our products have changed their quality of life and how important they are to their everyday lives. What could be better than that?

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

Thanks, Laura! You can learn more about her business at thehealingroseco.com.

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Credit: JJ Ignotz Photography.

Provided courtesy of Rekha Krishnamurthi.

This Visual Storyteller Helps Brands Stand Out Through Art Meet Rekha Krishnamurthi

R

ekha Krishnamurthi is a visual storyteller, and her art spans children’s books, products, branding and more. Be inspired as you discover the artist’s work, sources of inspiration and path to entrepreneurship. Plus, gain valuable advice for your own creative business.

Tell us about your work.

I’m a visual storyteller who creates art, illustration, animation and motion graphics. I use a variety of media and techniques— hand painting and digital—with the end goal of conveying the right visual story for children’s books, educational materials, products, branding, advertising, social media and more.

In my traditional art practice,

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I focus on printmaking, mixed media and fiber art. For my digital creations, I use a variety of software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Fresco, After Effects, and Procreate. Oftentimes, my process starts with creating a traditional art piece, which I then use as inspiration to create a modified digital version. I enjoy pushing the creative boundaries, mixing styles, genres and techniques to produce unique art and design.

I also teach art workshops and collaborate with organizations and nonprofits to bring art education and fun, creative experiences to their members.

How did you get started?

Art and crafting have always been something I’ve loved since childhood. A pivotal

point in my life was when I was in high school, and my mother suggested that we attend a weekend silk painting workshop together. This was the beginning of a lifelong passion for art and design that I have pursued since.

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

I opened an Etsy shop in 2011 and started selling my handmade products both online and at in-person markets. This was the beginning of my path to creative entrepreneurship. Fast forward to today, I’ve now shifted focus from primarily being a productbased business to offering design services focused on art, illustration, animation and

motion design. While I still maintain my Etsy shop, and I also sell via my own website, I am in the process of retiring my existing product lines. Once my existing inventory sells out, I will not be making those items anymore. My new product line will feature one-of-a-kind original artwork and patterns and templates for arts and crafts. More on this coming soon!

How do you define success for your creative business?

Success for me is going from a simple idea or concept and developing it into something tangible—this could be a piece of art, an illustration, an animation, or a product. There are so many steps involved in bringing an idea to life. Going through all the steps to make your idea real and tangible is success.

Where do you find inspiration?

I am inspired by my daily life, global travel and my South Asian (Indian) culture.

You’ll always find me snapping photos with my iPhone, capturing key moments, colors and scenes that inspire me for new art, illustration and animation ideas. My aesthetic leans towards blending whimsical designs with East-meetsWest-inspired motifs.

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

When you embark on a creative journey, there are many twists and turns. Pursuing your passion is never a straight line.

My advice is to be resilient, roll with the punches and be willing to adapt to changes. Always be open to learning as technology and times change, and you want to be relevant. Most importantly, don’t give up!

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

Test and explore. These days, there are many platforms and ways to sell your art or product.

You have to try it out and see what works best. There isn’t one cookie-cutter formula that can ensure success on any platform.

Oftentimes, you have to be on multiple platforms. I would also encourage having your own domain name and website.

Don’t just rely on a third-party platform.

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

I originally wanted to be a fashion designer and launched a t-shirt line featuring my hand-drawn henna-inspired art. I used to sell my t-shirts on the weekends at the Soho designers’ market in New York

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City. I still have some of those samples in my closet!

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

This is a tough one! For me, I set a time limit. I allow myself to adjust and tweak a design or piece of art for a certain amount of time—it could be a few hours or a couple of days, depending on the project I am working on. Once the time limit has been reached, I put my supplies and tools away and call the project done.

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

There is a lot of administrative work that needs to be done, which really cuts into your creative time. It is important to block out chunks of time to create vs. doing administrative work.

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

Has someone ever criticized your work?

When you are an artist or creative professional, you will always be subject to criticism.

It is part of the industry. Not everyone has to like your style, and that’s okay. When my work is criticized, I always listen to the feedback because there might be a source of inspiration or new ideas that form based on that criticism. Take the good from that feedback and move past it. Don’t let it stop you from pursuing your passion.

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

I love what Guide Dogs for the Blind does: training dogs to provide a valuable service for the blind.

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about Dogs for the Blind at guidedogs.com.

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

I use Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects) and drawing apps Adobe Fresco and Procreate for the digital art, illustrations and animations that I create. For traditional art supplies, I am a big fan of Blick Art. What brings you joy?

Creating, drawing, painting, designing—soaking in inspiration from everyday life is what brings me joy and happiness.

Some of those low points may actually be the prompt you need to learn something new or do something in a different way, which could then lead to joys and highs. So always be paying attention, and be open.

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Thanks, Rekha! You can learn more about the artist at divineny.com.

Unless indicated in photo credit, photos

by Rekha Krishnamurthi. Provided courtesy of Rekha Krishnamurthi.

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BEYOND THE NAME: TYLER ELLIS ON CARVING HER OWN LEGACY IN LUXURY FASHION

T

yler Ellis is the creative director and CEO of Tyler Ellis, a brand of luxury accessories. Based in Los Angeles, the designer works closely with Italian artisans in Florence who handcraft her designs.

Tyler’s surname is recognizable— her father is the late Perry Ellis, who died when Tyler was very young. But Tyler didn’t grow up believing she’d follow in her father’s footsteps. “My upbringing was far from the fashion scene.

My father passed away when I was 18 months, and my mom

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chose to raise me in Los Angeles, giving me a beautiful, private and joyful childhood. It wasn't until my early 20s, after graduating from Boston University with a degree in communications, that I ventured into the fashion industry,” Tyler said.

After college, Tyler interned for fashion designer Michael Kors, and the experience catapulted her onto an entrepreneurial path.

In 2011, she launched her handbag line, Tyler Alexandra. When asked why she left off her famous last name, Tyler said, "Reflecting

back, starting the company was a life-altering event. I was leaping into an entirely new world about to be critiqued by an industry that my father had mastered.

Candidly, I felt I needed to earn my last name, not just use it."

After five years of perfecting her designs, Tyler launched a collection under the Tyler Ellis label in 2017. The designer shares challenges she's faced in establishing a luxury handbag brand, advice for aspiring creative entrepreneurs, and a cause near and dear to her heart.

How did you settle on luxury handbags?

I have always loved accessories, but what really pushed me towards handbags was the challenge of finding a truly unique luxury bag. From Los Angeles to London to Dubai to Tokyo—in the exclusive world of luxury—I found women carrying the same few established brands. This inspired me to put my roots in the ground and begin the long process of building my own luxury label that, like these legacy brands, will remain relevant for generations to come.

Describe a challenge you faced when launching your business.

What separates the elite world of luxury from the masses is quality, so finding the right factory is a must. This is an extremely difficult process because there are only a finite number of qualified artisans in the highly sought-after Italian region. The big houses control most of the top factories, but there are still a rare few that remain independently owned.

It took three years until I was finally accepted into one of the coveted stand-alone workshops in Le Sieci, Italy, which to me is the true beginning of my Tyler Ellis legacy.

Once I began working with this incredibly talented group of artisans, my visions began to flourish, and I was able to find my voice in the accessories industry.

Our partnership was founded upon our mutual desire to perfect every aspect of each design. From my metal frames, down to my dog clips,

to my signature thayer blue linings, pinecone feet, closures and zipper pulls, (symbolizing the highest form of spiritual awakening and the third eye) all aspects of my creations are designed and built for Tyler Ellis.

When you first launched your business, what was your goal?

Has it changed?

I entered the luxury world with a clear goal — to build a competitive business. However, what I didn't anticipate was the evolution of my brand's direction. Initially, I concentrated on designing day bags, but as my presence on Hollywood's red carpets grew, I shifted my focus towards the less-explored realm of evening luxury. My designs have graced the arms of influential women such as Dr. Jill Biden, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, Princess Beatrice of York, Cate Blanchett, Oprah, and Kylie Jenner—individuals with access to the finest products. It's an incredible honor to have them consistently choose my creations.

This journey taught me the importance of finding your niche and paying attention to the signals the universe sends your way.

How do you define

success for your creative business?

Being proud of what you create while steadily moving in an upward trajectory. But always hear that little voice chirping inside you, urging you to keep growing and pushing the boundaries. The sky is the limit!

Where do you find inspiration?

My inspirations typically come from traveling and people watching. Lars Nilsson, former creative director of Nina Ricci, was a mentor to me at the beginning of my career.

We would walk around Paris, the magical City of Lights, and he would point out old brick walls, door knob handles, or the tops of tea kettles, and inspirations for new designs would roll off his tongue. I began to really pay attention to my surroundings and realize how much the world has to offer.

My pinecone symbol was inspired by a trip I took to the Vatican years before I began my brand. To this day, I still remember standing in the Pigna Court looking up at the

beautifully

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aged pinecone fountain, enthralled—who knew years later it would become the core signature of my brand? It is all about the details!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to begin

selling their art or creative product?

“

What's something you wish someone told you when you first started your business?

Learn enough to be dangerous in every facet of your business, including the most fundamental tasks. Your brand’s success depends on your dedication because no one will care as much as you do. How you act as a leader shapes your team’s actions—be involved and actively engaged. Lack of familiarity in any area can allow others to exploit or underperform. Finding the right team is also incredibly important. You want people who push you forward and are not simply ‘yes’ people.

As Michael Kors once told me, 'Surround yourself with the best possible people, because you can’t succeed without an A+ team.'

Designing is the fun part, but never forget the backend of your business.

Take your time, grow steadily, and make sure operations behind the scenes are running smoothly. Cutting corners is never an option because the integrity of your work is of the utmost importance.

Building trust with customers and peers is the key to long-term success, as your reputation is your most valuable asset.

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Tell us about your design process, how perfection fits into it, and how you partner with artisans to bring your vision to life.

Perfection is non-negotiable in my design process. Thankfully, I have the privilege of working with a team of exceptionally skilled Italian artisans who make the journey towards perfection smoother. The process begins with me sharing my sketches, accompanied by detailed notes and inspirational images, with the artisans. Using a pliable material called salpa, they craft an initial prototype. This model is then shipped to Los Angeles,

where I personally examine and refine its dimensions to align with my vision. After receiving my feedback, the artisans proceed to craft the first leather sample. While most designs match my vision at this stage, introducing new hardware elements can sometimes require a few additional rounds of adjustments before the piece reaches my standards.

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

Finding the delicate balance between creativity and practicality.

The core of the business is driven by artistic innovation, but this can only survive with proper financial management and strategic thinking. It can be hard to feel restricted in your design process, but you can only succeed if the business side makes sense.

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

The people who succeed are the ones who learn and grow from both the lows and the highs. Your business is ever evolving and an incident that, in the moment, feels like a low point might push you in a direction that you never thought about, leading to a new high. It’s an interesting and exciting cycle—so always remain humble.

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

I try not to take anything personally. Opinions are just that, opinions.

In the creative world, not everyone will like everything, and that’s OK and part of what makes art and design so personal and special.

Tell us about a cause you are passionate about.

I am a founding board member of Fashion Trust US (FTUS), a nonprofit initiative dedicated to discovering, funding, and nurturing young design talent with the aim of helping them build their label into a thriving global brand. The unique beauty of FTUS is that it offers more than just financial aid; it grants designers access to their prestigious network of influential figures in the fashion world, providing exceptional opportunities to elevate their brands. For more information visit fashiontrustus.com.

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

Shopify. I have an in-depth website, and Shopify’s backend is simple enough for me, a total non-tech person, to be able to navigate—well most of it!

What brings you joy?

Traveling the world with my family, experiencing new cultures, and enjoying great food and wine.

Resource for Aspiring Fashion Designers Fashion Trust US (FTUS) is a nonprofit initiative dedicated to discovering, funding, and nurturing young design talent with the aim of helping them build their label into a thriving global brand.

Learn more at

fashiontrustus.com

Thanks, Tyler! You can learn more about Tyler Ellis and shop her collection at tylerellis.com. All photos provided courtesy of Tyler Ellis.

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DESIGNER JANYELLE MILTON ON HOW LIVING WITH M.S. INSPIRED HER TO START A SHOE BRAND

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fter being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Janyelle Milton had to give up her beloved heels, but she had trouble finding comfortable shoes that matched her style. So, Janyelle designed her own sneakers, which people regularly complimented her on.

The positive feedback inspired her to launch J. Marie Premium Sneakers. Today, Janyelle designs the shoes at her home in Detroit, and artisan shoemakers in Italy produce them.

In the footwear designer’s interview, Janyelle shares how she’s redefining the sneaker landscape, the lessons she has learned thus far and her hopes for her business.

How did you get started designing sneakers?

In high school, you couldn’t catch me dead in gym shoes or jeans, for that matter. Shortly after graduating from college, I settled into corporate America and the Detroit downtown area. With any downtown metropolitan area, there is a lot of walking, so heels weren’t ideal for that scenario.

What really set me on a path to create my own sneakers was being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. I started feeling very uncomfortable in heels and achy in my body. So, I went on a quest to dress more comfortably and wear comfortable shoes. I tried different brands, but they were masculine, childish or athletic. I couldn’t find anything that matched my style, so I created my own brand.

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

I had a few pairs created for me based on my designs and started to get a lot of compliments. Years ago, I had an idea of starting a shoe line (with heels), and I revisited the idea of creating my own brand.

How do you define success for your creative business?

Success to me will be when my brand is a household name without me needing to push it, and it thrives all on its own.

Where do you find inspiration?

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In everything. I can be watching a documentary on how hot dog buns are made, and I’m going to be inspired by something that I can apply to my business. I can be at a restaurant and be inspired by a dish, a color, a name. I’m always taking notes on my phone. I like being inspired by things that make me feel something. I don’t like watching trends or trying to duplicate what’s being done.

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

Financial advice! I think it’s the thing that gets in the way for creatives. It’s not a strong point of mine. When I say that, I’m not referencing simple everyday finances and personal finances. I’m talking about finances pertaining to business, like equity, income statements, and profit and loss statements. If you didn’t grow up in a family business, this kind of stuff you never get into until you start a business of your own.

It’s definitely something you can learn, but if it were things I knew prior, it would have saved me a lot of money and position in my business.

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

Get familiar with finances pertaining to business. Know all your numbers going in: how much it costs you to make a product,

your profit margins, everything. It takes knowing all this and having it organized to grow your business by getting capital. I think it’s important to know because it takes so much energy—one could focus completely on that.

What advice would you give about handling business highs and lows?

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

I think that initially, when a person hears my business name J. Marie Premium Sneakers, they instantly think sneakerhead. I wasn’t into sneakers growing up, and I don’t consider myself a sneakerhead.

I’m just a woman who saw a group of people being completely ignored in the market, and I decided to do something about that.

How do you deal with perfectionism?

I try to avoid it when it comes to creating because it doesn’t exist.

I think it’s imperfections that we perceive as creativity. Now, once I’m past the creative part and presenting and delivering the product, I seek perfection. People who buy products that are labeled premium expect a certain level of customer service, delivery, communication—so I always aim to perfect those things.

Realize the saying the table turns all the time is false. Tables don’t turn; people switch seats! With that being said, understand that your highs won’t last and neither will your lows. The balance comes from being humbled by your lows and learning lessons that refine your character to be humble in your highs and let your character carry you through your lows.

be able to compete with the big brands. I kept going. People have told me, ‘You should add this, take away this, and I would buy it.’ I kept going. When it comes to a creative business, it’s different than any other genre in the market. You’re sharing your interpretation of something and hope others gravitate to it when you decide to sell it. With other genres, you interpret what you think others want and sell it to them. When this is used in creative spaces, it kills originality and spirit.

Even passion.

What cause are you passionate about and why?

I am passionate about helping fight fast fashion. We have partnered with Angel Bins for a national shoe drive to combat the environmental impact of high fashion.

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you love?

I love the email service Constant Contact. It allows me to communicate and keep in touch with those who love my brand.

Thanks, Janyelle! You can learn more about J. Marie Premium Sneakers Has someone ever criticized your at jmariepremiumsneakers.com.

What’s something that surprised work? How did you handle it? you about running a business?

Of course! All the time when I first All photos provided courtesy of That people gravitated to my destarted. I was told that the sneakJanyelle Milton. signs! It’s very gratifying, and I am er business wasn’t something I appreciative and humbled by that. should go into because I’d never

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Photos: Nina Piccini.

Provided courtesy of Laughing Gull Chocolates.

Founder Lindsay Tarnoff

On Changing the World With Chocolate From left to right: Lindsay Tarnoff, Karla Carey and Allison Zukoski.

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hen Lindsay Tarnoff, founder and chief chocolatier of Laughing Gull Chocolates in Rochester, NY, started her business, she always intended to make a difference. Today, her company is a certified B Corp. Besides crafting delicious confections with premium ingredients, Laughing Gull Chocolates is a force for good.

Lindsay and her partners, Karla Carey and Allison Zukoski, transparently source their ingredients from direct- and fair-trade chocolate suppliers and local businesses in their community. The team also advocates for social justice, racial

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equity and belonging. Laughing Gull Chocolates is 100% woman-owned and is also LGBTQ+ owned and operated.

Discover more about Laughing Gull Chocolates in our Q&A with Lindsay.

Tell us about Laughing Gull Chocolates.

We are a part of the growing craft chocolate industry. We use high-quality, organic and transparently traded ingredients to make delicious chocolate and focus on changing the world through chocolate. We sell our

craft chocolate (we’re primarily chocolatiers and dabble in chocolate making), and we are also chocolate educators.

This means that we lead chocolate workshops and tastings in person and virtually.

How did you get started crafting with chocolate?

I’ve always been a chocoholic and grew up baking. My love of dark chocolate came from my parents, who both learned to love chocolate from their grandparents. In my last year of college, I wrote a capstone paper on the history of the morality of chocolate. The project melded together my various fields of study: History, Government, Latin American Studies and Spanish. Just around that time, I traveled to Mexico to understand the ways the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) impacted people and communities.

Through that trip, I realized how much of a difference my choices as a consumer could make.

The idea of Laughing Gull Chocolates was born then. I started learning everything I could about the story of chocolate and even enrolled in pastry arts classes.

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

The moment that sticks out most to me happened when I was working at a hospital. A co-worker asked me what I was going to do when I graduated, and I had no idea! I responded without thinking, ‘I don’t know— I’m going to save the world with chocolate.’ I realized then that I was meant to start a chocolate business that would change the world. A few years later, I started hosting truffle-making parties

with friends. I loved those gettogethers so much that I decided my business would get off the ground by making truffles and facilitating chocolate-making workshops. It grew from there!

How do you define success for your creative business?

Success for Laughing Gull Chocolates means that when people think about chocolate, it’s the small craft chocolate companies that come to mind.

It means that consumers all over the world want to taste the nuances of chocolate and know where it comes from.

the business world, I am inspired by other strong women business owners who have created social enterprises and found success.

I find inspiration in other small chocolate businesses. When I first conceived the idea of Laughing Gull Chocolates, there were not many small craft chocolate makers. It is a growing industry even today, and chocolatiers and chocolate educators are few and far between. What we do is unique, but our peers are doing amazing things, and I’m inspired every day!

Meanwhile, I love being inspired by local flavors for our delicious chocolate products.

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

There are two things that come to mind. It’s OK to try things that don’t work—you can still find success. Also, understand your financials. They do make a difference!

Every day, we help customers understand what goes into making chocolate—from the cacao bean to the cacao tree, to those who grow the trees and the farm itself.

Where do you find inspiration?

Everywhere! Today, I am motivated and inspired by my three kids—I want to show them that with my business partners, I can run a business and make the world a better place. They also ground me. They are silly and creative, and as an adult, I want to keep those traits present! In

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

Do what you love! It may be cliché, but I couldn’t do it any other way.

Create a plan; remember, it’s just an outline; it will change. Maybe, most importantly, find a group of other creatives or like-minded entrepreneurs.

Being a small business owner is hard, and there are lots of ups and downs. Having a strong network makes a difference—plus, it feels good to support other businesses you believe in, and it really matters when they support you too.

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

It never would have occurred to me back then, but with my sisters and friends, I was a creative social entrepreneur in elementary school. We started a club, Kids Can Care, through which we held regular lemonade stands and sold lemonade and doctored up homemade brownies. All the profits went to an environmental non- profit organization. I never thought of myself as having strong business acumen, but apparently, it’s in my nature!

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

This is something I’ve been working on for years. I try to avoid the word ‘perfect’ and focus on what works well for now. Growing up, many conversations in my house were about how much effort I put into what I did rather than the end result. Everything is a work in progress, and everybody is on a journey. I find if I am genuine in what I do and share my passion, that is what is most important. That being said, when it comes to our chocolate and our events, we do have a high standard that we will always

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meet, and we are proud of our quality.

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

When I took the leap to start Laughing Gull Chocolates fulltime, I never questioned that I’d be the innovator. And while I do always get to be creative, it’s not always in the way I expected.

My creativity isn’t always about the chocolate or the culinary process. Sometimes, it’s how to run the business, make numbers make sense or how to work with our partners. It surprised me to move in this direction, and I still love making chocolate, but it is fun in a different way.

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

Running a business generates so many highs and lows— sometimes even within one day.

I don’t know how I would do it all without my partners. I am lucky to have a supportive partner in my husband and strong women who are my business partners. My advice would be to find a network that can cheer you on and provide constructive criticism when needed. Whether they are life partners, fellow business owners,

family or close friends, it helps to have people genuinely rooting for you!

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

When I first started Laughing Gull Chocolates, I made the decision to use high-quality ingredients and source them transparently.

Everything we do, we make by hand; we use a lot of stoneground, dark chocolate and unique flavors.

Our ingredients are clean, and we don’t use fillers.

Moreover, we unapologetically stay true to our values. All of these components of who we are mean that we receive criticism constantly. There have been moments when some comments are warranted, and we learn from the experience, improve and progress. Other times, that person is simply not our customer.

We are proud of what we do, even if it is different than most; we know that we make a high-quality product and that we work hard to be the best chocolatiers, community members and business owners we can be. Though it’s hard not to let those comments get to us, acknowledging that we are not

for everyone and we are doing the best we can helps us through those hard times.

What’s a cause you are passionate about?

There are so many important causes, and I’m proud that Laughing Gull Chocolates not only sources ingredients and supplies with a conscience but we also donate a portion of our proceeds to a few chosen organizations.

I’m especially passionate about reproductive justice, which is integral to equity, women’s rights, ending racism, eliminating poverty and so much more. We chose an organization based in Texas to support reproductive rights: Support Your Sistah through The Afiya Center (theafiyacenter. org). The three organizations local to Rochester, NY are Action for Education Equity (actionforeducationequity. org), Willow Domestic Violence Center (willowcenterny. org) and Saving AJ (savingaj. agency). Nationally, we also support The Trevor Project (thetrevorproject.org).

Can you share the name of a supplier or vendor that you

just love?

We choose each of our vendors conscientiously. We have a strategy screen that ensures our partners also have a high-quality product and that our values align.

We love working with as many small, locally owned businesses as possible and support many

entrepreneurs from marginalized communities. It’s hard to pick just one of our suppliers, but Imprintable Solutions has been wonderful! Women-owned, they are like- minded and help with anything from signage and labels to our favorite personalized

hats and cozy Laughing Gull Chocolates’ sweatshirts. They also have a work training program, which we love to help support!

What brings you joy?

Where to start?! The small things—the smiles on my kids’ faces when they accomplish something new. Gathering with family. Watching a butterfly flutter around a garden or noticing the first signs of fall. Capturing tiny moments with my husband. Conversations with old friends and making new connections.

When it comes to Laughing Gull Chocolates, I love sharing my passion through chocolate tastings, innovating new flavors that incorporate local ingredients and chocolate that supports farmers, and then watching our customers’ faces as they try that product for the first (or second or hundredth) time is another favorite! I love finding joy in the little things!

Thanks, Lindsay! You can learn more about Laughing Gull Chocolates at laughinggullchocolates.com.

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How This Designer Promotes Body Positivity And Inclusivity With Handmade Earrings

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or full-figured people, expressing personal style through clothing can be a challenge.

Diana Smith has experienced the lack of fashion options available in extended sizes.

“Being plus-sized, I always have a hard time finding things that fit me or finding things that I feel good in,” Diana said. Her struggle with body positivity put her on a path to create a line of hypoallergenic clay earrings. Continue reading the beautiful story of WOMIN Studio below.

How did you get started making jewelry?

I started in March 2022, and around that time, I was in therapy and visiting numerous doctors about my weight. I did not feel good about my body or the way I looked. Body image and body positivity are something I have always struggled with, and clothes have always been an enemy.

Earrings were one of the only ways I could truly express myself in terms of personality. It was at that time I decided that I could use something I loved to help me on my journey to self-love.

At what point did you realize that you could turn making earrings into a business?

Still, to this day, I question the validity of calling myself a small business because I am doing something I love. I guess

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Credit: Lindsey Ballard, Embrace Your Wild Media. Provided Courtesy of Diana Smith.

I started calling it a business when I wanted to invest back into my hobby to help pay for supplies, and it is slowly growing.

How do you define success for your creative business?

Success is so relative. I have never run my own business before, so each step is something I consider a success.

I am continuously teaching myself new things, like taking photos, running a website, social media, etc. Even down to the smallest details, you should be proud of how far you have come and how far you are going. One important factor of my business is allowing others to be expressive in my community. So, meeting people, learning their stories and seeing them in my earrings, smiling and being authentic is

something I consider a success.

What inspires your designs?

I draw inspiration from the world around me. Some of my favorite earrings have been mistakes, but after a few iterations, I was able to come up with something I love. A lot of my earrings have meanings behind them. Some of my favorite collections were for International Women’s Month, where I can make earrings that specifically help to break the barrier of inequity or honor those who have put in the work.

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

Slow progress is still progress.

The best things in life aren’t usually a result of quick growth.

with the punches and do my best. Practice over time helps too. Looking back to some of my first pairs to where I am now today is huge and reaffirming that I am on the right path.

It is during this time I have been able to refine my process and focus on making things that truly matter to me. With social media, sometimes people are quick to compare themselves to other people or companies, but we each have something unique to offer the world.

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

If you don’t start, you have already failed. Too often, I hear people tell me that they are not creative or can’t do it because of ‘XYZ.’ If people would get out of their own way, I promise you will continue to surprise yourself with how much you are capable of.

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

My first love is studying law. I am currently studying to attend law school in 2024 and feel like I will be able to enact the most positive change. I love making earrings that have meaning, but there will be a time when I don’t have time for both and will become a full-time lawyer.

How do you handle perfectionism as a designer?

Creating art has helped me in other areas of my life to let go of my perfectionistic tendencies.

I learned very quickly that clay isn’t perfect, no matter how many times you try to mold it to be. I have learned to just roll

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

Social Media is my least favorite aspect of running a business.

This is surprising because sometimes I will be on my phone for hours at a time on my social media, looking at posts, reels, or other content.

But being the face behind creating the content is the most draining aspect of creating and something I wish I didn’t have to do.

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

This is a good question; I am still learning this myself. Maybe something like being patient with yourself and taking breaks.

I struggle with mental health, and just like my mental health, my business has high and low points, but that’s life, so just be patient with yourself.

If you need to take a break from creating, then do it. It’s important to give yourself time to heal so your business can heal too.

in the trash.

What brings you joy?

Meeting so many new people who share the same passions of inclusivity and body positivity.

In the small community in Southern Utah. I have been able to find these people, and some of them have become close friends. I have learned many new things with some amazing people along the way that have brought me joy, friendships, laughter and so much more.

Thanks, Diana! You can find her products at etsy.com/shop/WOMINStudio or mofacomobile.com/collections/ womin-studio.

Unless indicated on photo, photos courtesy of Diana Smith.

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

Etsy helps me find small businesses to support, so I usually end up ordering a lot of my supplies through them. One small business, FlowerSeedPaper on Etsy, helped design and create wildflower-seeded thank you cards for me. You can plant them instead of throwing them

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Photos provided courtesy of Danielle McLaughlin.

M

KINDLING A CANDLE BUSINESS: MEET DANIELLE MCLAUGHLIN

aking candles has been a part of Danielle McLaughlin’s life since she was a child. The artisan’s mom owned a candle shop, and Danielle loved watching her make magic out of wax. “In 2021, at the age of 34, I discussed my desire to make my own and see what comes of it. I’ve been in business now for two years,” Danielle said.

Beach Bee Candle Company specializes in non-toxic beeswax and coconut wax candles and perfume oils. Discover how Danielle took the first steps in starting her business and where she is today in our interview.

When did you realize that you could sell your candles?

After I practiced making my own candles for a while and perfected everything, I decided to bring eight candles to my

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local farmer’s market. I sold all of them that day. I knew then that I could make something of this.

How do you define success?

Success in my creative business is getting my products into the hands of people across the US. I feel that when a customer comes to me and tells me how much they enjoy my candles and oils, I’ve done something right. It’s not always about money or fame but knowing you’re making products people enjoy.

What inspires you?

I find inspiration when I’m outdoors. The majority of the Beach Bee collection is inspired by my hometown, Virginia Beach—like Pungo Peach, Back Bay and Seaside Citrus. My family also gives me inspiration. They throw out

ideas and remind me of ways I can improve certain things.

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

That it takes a lot of time and commitment, even with a small business. You’ll also fail at some things, and reminding yourself of why you started it to begin with is important.

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

Stay committed to your values and what you want your brand to stand for. Maintaining your own identity is vital to stand out. Also, make products or have a business model you can be proud of. Your business represents who you are.

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

I love to camp, hike and fish. I love all animals! And my dream is to one day have a tiny home near a lake.

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

”

I remind myself that as long as I did my best and I feel good about it, that’s all I need to focus on. We can strive for perfection, but I try not to get too caught up in it. It’s important to set realistic expectations.

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

The support and love I get from complete strangers!

The response has been overwhelming.

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

The good days will outweigh the bad days if you focus more on them. Focus on the things you can control. There’s a meme I found that I love. It says, “Don’t quit or give up because people you know don’t support you.

There are complete strangers rooting for you.”

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

Yes, but I knew going into this that Beach Bee wouldn’t be for everyone. Think about it: not everyone eats the same foods or likes the same movies. It’s the same for business. Some

may think your products are too expensive or not appealing. But for everyone who doesn’t enjoy them, there are more that will.

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 use Sticker Mule for labels; they never disappoint.

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about Sticker Mule at stickermule.com.

What brings you joy?

Being a mom brings me joy. My daughter Mya is 12 and helps me with business tremendously.

I get joy out of watching her craft and create her own products and get inspired. It’s an awesome feeling. It was the same for me with my mom.

Thanks, Danielle! You can learn more about Beach Bee Candles at beachbeecandles.com.

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From Sea to Canvas:

A Conversation with Artist and Entrepreneur Mary Jameson

Credit: Jeneene Chatowsky.

Provided courtesy of Mary Jameson.

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t Saltwater Studio Art & Design in Newport, RI, Mary Jameson celebrates the delicate and organic forms of marine life through art. The visual artist’s work spans mediums, including fine art, jewelry, cards, and more.

In her interview, Mary dives deep into her journey, inspirations and the ebb and flow of running a creative business.

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Tell us a little about your career trajectory?

In my current body of work, I am exploring marine algae as a contemporary art form. In 2010, I attended an exhibit of scrapbooks from the Victorian Era at the Newport Historical Society. These scrapbooks were created by people who summered in Newport and wanted to have happy mementos of their vacation at the coast. In the pages, besides

the poetry, photographs, watercolors and pressed flowers were pressed specimens of seaweed. Since I live here and have abundant access to seaweed, I immediately set out to learn this technique! For my background, I have a BFA in graphic design and illustration, a master’s certificate in museum studies, and I am a certified fine art appraiser. I worked for Bank of America as a curator for their corporate art program when I lived in

Eco Green Bloom Limited Edition Fine Art Print

Boston. I currently live in Rhode Island and run my art business, Saltwater Studio Newport.

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

When I started making the marine botanical pressings, I showed them first to my family and friends, and they wanted them for their homes. That was encouraging! I began to enter them in art exhibitions and sold them there too. I tried out a booth at our local farmer’s market and was received well in the community. It all kept progressing from there!

How do you define success for your creative business?

The fact that I work full-time as an artist is a big definition of success. In 2014, I had a solo show in the Wright Gallery at the Newport Art Museum and currently have a piece at the New Bedford Art Museum’s exhibit on the Cultures of Seaweed. I sell my work in galleries, stores and museums from Connecticut through Maine, but when I started out, that all seemed light years away.

“

Where do you find inspiration?

The ocean contains a wealth of environments, the known and unknown, with creatures,

shapes and forms both strange and beautiful.

It’s here that I find the greatest inspiration for my work.

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

That every part of the growth

and development is important.

That means in the beginning, when there are many business uncertainties, you are learning how to solve them and gain confidence. The obstacles you tackle now make you stronger and more resilient for what’s to come.

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

The first piece of advice I would give someone is to believe in yourself and keep believing.

Make it a mantra! As you evolve and reach your current goals, you may feel that you’re back to square one again with new goals. That’s the process, and believing in yourself is the essence. The second piece of advice would be to reach out to your local SBA. They

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have programs and experts available free of charge to help small business owners navigate the ins and outs of owning a business.

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

When a hip injury curtailed my running schedule, I started rehabbing in the pool and was so impressed with the benefits that I became a certified water fitness instructor. It’s really one of the best ways to work out or cross-train due to the water’s density and less stress applied to the joints. I currently teach one class (due to my busy studio schedule) at my local YMCA. As creatives, we can be continuously creating and refining our art. How do you

Winter Series Sakonnet Collage I Original Seaweed Collage on Rag Paper

handle perfectionism?

Yes, I have had to battle perfectionism in the past. In working with nature, I find there is a certain calmness that organic matter emits despite the tangles and uncontrolled manner in which it presents itself, and I believe this has helped me relax. I enjoy the element of surprise with some of the processes I use, which are cyanotype, eco printing and marine botanical seaweed pressings.

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

People who are interested in your work are also very interested in learning about you! The visceral attraction to a piece of art is often the first part of the introduction, but your story, attached to the artwork through personal connection,

is a compelling reason for someone to purchase it.

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

Making peace with the process is a good thought to keep in mind. It’s important to separate unsuccessful situations from your self-worth. You’re undertaking a lot when you design and create your product and then put it out there to sell. Relish the upswing of the pendulum and know that the lows will pass.

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

I think, as creatives, we have to understand that our work is not for everyone, and that is okay!

I’m sure I’ve been affected in an unguarded moment, but it’s best to know that your work is important to you; those who support you far outweigh those who feel a need to criticize.

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

Clean Ocean Access is a nonprofit organization that has made great strides in keeping the waters and beaches where I live in Rhode Island healthy and accessible. Their vision is a clean, healthy ocean that is accessible to all, and their mission is to inspire and educate the community to take action through environmentally responsible behaviors. This includes scheduled beach clean-ups and programs that raise awareness for the work they do. I have joined the beach clean-ups and have donated artwork to some of their fundraisers to keep ocean access for everyone!

Editor’s Note: You can learn

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more about Clean Ocean Access at cleanoceanaccess.org.

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

I use Don Mar Frame and Moulding for all my framing supplies, and they are consistent and dependable! They are a wholesale supplier.

Balloon Dulse Seaweed Necklace

Editor’s Note: You can learn more about Don Mar Frame and Moulding at donmarcreations.com.

What brings you joy?

What I love is the transformation that initiates when someone sees my work and starts to study it. I witness the change and feel the connection. I’ve had people tell me that after seeing my marine botanical collages, they observe seaweed differently—that means they see their environment differently. People send me photos of seaweed from around the world, saying, 'Look what I’ve found,' which means 'Look what I see.' And I know it’s really about them and their new awareness, and this brings me incredible joy.

Irish Moss Seaweed Necklace

Thanks, Mary! You can learn more about the artist at saltwaterstudionewport.com.

Unless indicated on the photo, photos provided courtesy of Mary Jameson.

Tide Pool Series, Sakonnet Tide Pool, Limited Edition Fine Art Digital Print Archival Inks on Rag Paper.

Artisan Joy

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Mary Jameson Water Drawing Series Jen’s Water Garden Cyanotype and Seaweed Collage on Rag Paper