Rise Up Designs

This weekend was full of heart, hustle, and hot cocoa — and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. On Saturday, I set up shop at a local vendor market. Even though there were a few other big events happening nearby, the crowd still showed up strong. The hosts did an amazing job promoting, and it reminded me how important that piece is for small businesses like mine. Every customer felt intentional, like they made a choice to come out and support us. That means everything to a maker. Then Sunday rolled around, and I tried something new — a pop-up market in my own backyard. I didn’t go into it expecting a crowd, just wanted to open my space to friends, family, and neighbors… and wow, they showed up! From sangria to support, it felt like one big warm hug from my community. 💛 These two days reminded me that support doesn’t always look like a crowd — sometimes it’s one person telling a friend, one neighbor popping in, one kind message on Instagram. That ripple of kindness is wha...

This week has been all about prepping —getting ready for what’s shaping up to be a very full (and festive!) season. 🎄 Tomorrow, I’ve got another wreath party , and I’m so excited to share photos on Sippin’ Sunday! These parties have been such a blessing—each one has brought new faces, laughter, and creativity. It’s been amazing to watch people come together, make something beautiful, and build a little community in the process. That right there feels like a huge win. 💖 But along with the excitement, there’s also the reality of juggling a lot : ✨ Two markets coming up in December ✨ A glass wrap party with a local church next week ✨ My final wreath party before the holiday season wraps up (no pun intended 😉) So, this week’s focus has been simple: prep and pace myself. Taking inventory, organizing supplies, restocking where needed—all while nursing a pesky cold and managing my usual allergy-season migraines. 🫣 The Lesson This Week 💡 Even when things are going well—and espe...

This weekend, I had the chance to pop up right in my own backyard—at my neighborhood’s annual chili cook-off! It was a short event, just two hours, and it started off a little rocky thanks to some heavy rain the night before (and a little drizzle during). But honestly? It turned out to be such a win. I got to meet my neighbors, many of whom hadn’t seen my work in person before. I was able to share my booth, my business cards, and a glimpse into what Rise Up Designs is all about—just in time for the holiday season. Even better? I met some incredible vendors who are just as passionate about their work. Fellow crafters, small business owners, and renters from right here in our community. We swapped ideas, stories, and encouragement. That kind of connection—the local love—is what fuels me. This event wasn’t about big sales or massive crowds. It was about visibility, connection, and planting seeds for what’s to come. I’m heading into November with a full calendar—craft classes, parties, and...

☕  Sippin’ Sunday: The Long Game  and  a Great Time This week, I hosted a wreath party that was creative, joyful, and truly special. It was a smaller group than usual, and to be honest, I wasn’t sure how it would all play out. Normally, I make a little profit from the party itself—but where I usually see the bigger return is from guests purchasing wraps or crafts afterward. That didn’t happen this time. At first, I’ll admit—I was a little bummed. But as the evening unfolded, I realized this party was a win in  so many other ways . ✨ The energy in the room was so fun, relaxed, and creative. ✨ Every guest left with a  gorgeous, completely personalized  wreath. ✨ I left feeling creatively recharged and  so proud  of what we made together. And here’s the exciting part: 💫 Three guests asked about hosting their own craft parties. 💫 One mentioned bringing in a church group to do a group event. 💫 Several others shared ideas and tagged me on socials aft...

It’s still August. The sun is blazing, school supplies are everywhere, and pumpkin spice hasn’t even hit full force. But me? I’m sipping my coffee and already thinking about tinsel, ribbon, and holiday bundles. Because when you run a small business—especially one that’s creative and seasonal— Christmas doesn’t start in December... It starts now. Over the past week, I’ve been busy behind the scenes: 🎃 Creating Halloween bundles 🎄 Designing new Christmas bundles 📦 Working with my printer to prep fresh stock 🛍️ Updating my listings and thinking ahead for mobile craft parties with a holiday twist I’m also brainstorming a Christmas wreath-making class —something fun, easy, and affordable. I've seen beautiful ones out there, but $75–$80 for a class just isn't doable for everyone. I want to create an experience that’s accessible, festive, and gives people the joy of crafting without the stress of overspending. So here’s my message to you: If you're a maker, a small...