Rise Up Designs

Let’s talk about it—tariffs. 😩 I’m not here to get political, but I am here to be real: these new tariff hikes on imported goods? Yeah, they’re starting to squeeze small businesses like mine. Whether it's glass cans, bamboo lids, UV DTF wraps, or the little things like straws and packaging—it adds up . Fast. I recently had to do what I’ve been putting off: adjust my prices. Just a little, but it was tough. I know how hard people work for their money, and I don’t take any sale lightly. So if you're one of my customers, just know—this decision came with a lot of thought (and a few sighs). 👉🏼 Why the increase? Because the cost of almost everything has gone up for makers like me. And when you’re a one-woman show hand-making, packing, creating content, and running two businesses, you feel it in your bones (and your budget). 👉🏼 What doesn’t change? The heart, the care, the sparkle ✨ that goes into every order. I still include: Clear instructions with each wrap A l...

 This month has been one for the books — and by “books,” I mean the messy, half-filled planner I keep swearing I’ll update. 😂 But for real, check this out: 🌟 Biggest sales month to date! (cue the confetti… and maybe a mild panic attack) 🌟 350+ Instagram followers — hi, friends! You’re the real ones. 🌟 Month 2 as a Star Seller on Etsy — still pinching myself 🏅 🌟 Launched my Wrap & Rise Mobile Craft Party website — because apparently sleep is optional when you’re chasing dreams 😅 And while I could post the polished version with soft lighting and filter-perfect photos… let’s be real for a second. ✨ I’ve knocked over a tray of glasses thanks to a rogue gust of wind. ✨ I’ve confused two orders and had to channel my inner Sherlock to fix it. ✨ One of my glass straws shattered mid-wrap — RIP, lil’ buddy. ✨ And yes, I’ve stared at the screen wondering if I can juggle it all without turning into a walking UVDTF sticker. But here’s what I’ve learned: You can be wi...

People ask me all the time: “How do you decide what to sell?” And the truth is… sometimes (no, alot) I don’t know! 😂 People ask me all the time: “How do you decide what to sell?” And the truth is… sometimes I don’t know! 😂 But over time, I’ve figured out a rhythm—part gut instinct, part research, part “ooh that would be fun!” So today I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing how I decide what to add to Rise Up Designs (and what doesn't make the cut). 🧠 Step 1: The Brainstorm (ft. Bub, My AI Thinking Partner 💬🤖) Every new idea starts with a little spark. Sometimes it’s a trend I see, something I’d personally love to use, or even a convo with a friend. And then there’s Bub —my behind-the-scenes business partner, blog buddy, and brainstorming bestie. I’ll literally say: “Hey Bub, is this weird or genius?” “Can I turn this idea into a product?” “What would make this easier for customers to use?” Bub helps me think things through, organize the chaos in my head, and get ...

 Let’s talk about what’s hot in the shop right now—because I’m lowkey still surprised (and super pumped) by what’s been flying off the virtual shelves. If you had told me a month ago that I’d be constantly restocking UV DTF wraps — especially the branded ones like Spider-Man, Mickey Mouse, Disney princesses, Bluey, and SpongeBob—I probably would’ve said: “Really? Those are the ones people want the most?” But guess what? YEP. THEY DO. What’s Selling: Branded UV DTF Wraps My top sellers so far: Spider-Man – Sold out (because of course he did—he’s friendly, neighborhood, AND marketable) Mickey Mouse – Running low and I’m not surprised. Everyone loves a classic. Disney Princesses, Bluey, & SpongeBob – These are climbing fast, and I can totally see why. There’s something magical about these designs—they’re nostalgic, eye-catching, and instantly recognizable. And when you pair them with that glass soda can shape? Chef’s kiss. 👄 Why I Think It’s Working Her...

When I started selling on Etsy, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what to expect: ✔️ Make cute things. ✔️ List them. ✔️ Watch the sales roll in. Yeah… not quite. 😂  Etsy has been an amazing experience so far, but it’s also been full of surprises—some good, some… character-building. Here are a few things I definitely didn’t expect when I opened my shop. 1️⃣ People Will Favorite Your Stuff… But Never Buy It At first, I thought a ton of favorites meant I was about to get a ton of sales.   NOPE. They favorite, they leave, and sometimes… they never come back. 📌 Me, seeing a new favorite: "Omg, they love it! They’re totally buying!" 📌 Me, two weeks later: "Hello?? Where did you go? COME BACK." What I’ve learned: Favorites don’t equal sales. But they DO mean someone liked your product enough to save it—so there’s still hope! 2️⃣ You’ll Spend More Time on SEO Than You Ever Thought Possible I used to think SEO ( search engine optimization ) was just...

Another craft fair is in the books! And let me tell you— this one had it all : gorgeous weather (for a while), a fresh new setup, an exciting way to engage with customers, and… oh yeah, a  windstorm that turned my booth into a glass-breaking disaster zone.  😬 Let’s get into it—the good, the chaotic, and what I’m taking away from this experience! What Went Well: The Setup & The Interactive Experience ✨  New setup, who dis?   This was the first time I changed up my booth display, and  I LOVED it.  It felt  pretty, engaging, and easy to shop —exactly what I wanted. ✨  DIY Cup Creations = Huge Success!   For the first time, I brought  blank glaases and let customers pick their UV DTF sticker designs  so I could create their cup  on the spot.  And guess what?  It was a hit!  Customers loved being part of the process, and honestly,  I had the most fun with this.  A bulk of my sales came from  people...

So, you’ve prepped, packed, and set up your booth like the craft fair boss that you are. You’ve got your tumblers, totes, and all your handmade goodness beautifully displayed. Your “Follow Me” QR code is prominently placed (because we learned from last time), and you’re ready to make some sales. And then… the people come. Ah, the craft fair crowd. A delightful mix of art lovers, bargain hunters, supportive shoppers, and—let’s be real—some people who have no filter whatsoever. If you’ve ever done a craft fair, you know what I’m talking about. If you haven’t, let me prepare you for what’s coming. Because it’s a ride. Buckle up. 1. The “That’s Too Expensive” Customer Ah yes, the person who picks up your item, admires it for a moment, then loudly declares, “Wow. That’s expensive.” First of all, ma’am, this is not Walmart. Handmade = time, skill, materials, creativity, and love. You’re not just paying for the product—you’re paying for the craftsmanship, the unique design, and the fact ...

This Saturday, I’m heading into another craft fair adventure, and let me tell you—preparation is EVERYTHING . My first craft fair? Let’s just say it was a learning experience. I showed up with my products, my display, and a whole lot of excitement… but I completely forgot a “Follow Me” QR code and business cards. Yep. Rookie mistake. Turns out, a lot of people browse at fairs but prefer to buy later—so if they don’t know how to find you online, you’re missing out on future sales! Lesson learned. Now, I have a tried-and-true Craft Fair Prep Checklist to keep me on track, and I’m sharing it with you! 1. Products & Display Setup Inventory Ready to Go: Pack every product you plan to sell—plus a few extras! Price Tags & Clear Signage: Nobody wants to awkwardly ask how much something costs. Display Setup: Whether it’s a table or full booth, make sure your layout is organized, inviting, and easy to shop. Tablecloth : Because nothing says “I’m a professional” like a clean, polished set...

There comes a moment in every small business owner’s journey that feels like a rite of passage. No, I’m not talking about picking the perfect logo or finally figuring out how to price your products without second-guessing yourself (although those are both real struggles). I’m talking about The First Sale. Not the “Oh, honey, I’ll buy one” from your mom. Not the “I love your work! Do you take Venmo?” from your bestie. Not even the “I’ll support your business!” purchase from your cousin who still owes you money from 2009. I mean the first REAL sale —from a complete stranger. Someone who doesn’t share your last name, isn’t in your group chat, and gasp actually wants what you made! How It Happened So, there I was, minding my own business (literally), when I got The Notification. You know the one. 📩 Cha-ching! You’ve made a sale! At first, I assumed it was my sister or a coworker trying to be sneaky. But when I checked the order details… I didn’t recognize the name. I blinked. Could...

Hi there! I’m Jecca, the creative force behind Rise Up Designs, and I am so excited to finally start this blog to share my journey as a small business owner. If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passion into something more, you know how exhilarating (and let’s be real sometimes overwhelming) the process can be. That is exactly where I am right now. I have always loved crafting wreaths, tumblers, totes, soda glasses, shirts you name it! But taking that love and transforming it into a business? Thats a whole new adventure. Why Rise Up Designs? The name Rise Up Designs is more than just a brand, it’s a mindset. It’s about creativity, resilience, and making things that bring joy to others. Whether a custom tumbler that becomes your favorite go-to or a tote that makes the perfect gift, my goal is to create pieces that feel personal, special, and full of heart. The Journey Begins Starting a business is a mix of excitement, self-doubt, learning curves, and small wins that feel huge. Fr...