Rise Up Designs

One thing markets have taught me is that growth is not always about bringing more. More products. More displays. More signs. More things packed into every available inch of the table. Sometimes growth looks like learning what to leave behind. When I first started doing markets, I wanted to bring everything. I thought the more choices I gave people, the better chance I had of making a sale. And honestly, that made sense to me at the time. But after doing markets for a few years, I’ve learned that too much can become overwhelming—not only for the customer, but for me too. A crowded table can make it harder for people to understand what I sell. Products can get lost. My best items may not stand out. And instead of creating a warm, inviting space, the booth can start to feel like I simply brought everything I own. Now I try to be more intentional. Before I pack for a market, I ask myself: Does this product fit the direction of my business? Does it work with the rest of my displ...

​ This week reminded me of something I think every small business owner learns eventually. I’ve stopped asking myself, “Was this market worth it?” Instead, I ask, “What did this market teach me?” That’s a very different question. 🙋🏻‍♀️ I’ve had incredible markets where I sold well, and I’ve had markets where the weather had other plans. Rain. Wind. Slow foot traffic. Wet signs. Products that needed to be covered in a hurry. None of those things are fun, but every single one has taught me something. Maybe it’s to laminate my pricing signs. 💲 Maybe it’s to pack extra towels.🧻 Maybe it’s to bring another set of clips or rethink my booth layout. 🤔 Maybe it’s simply a reminder that I can’t control the weather, but I can control how prepared I am. ⚡️💨 The funny thing is, the markets that challenge me are usually the ones that make me a better vendor. - Every event becomes info.  - Every conversation teaches me something about my customers. - Every mistake becomes a chec...

​ This Flex Friday feels different — quieter, softer, and exactly how it should be. I’m wrapping up my last few Etsy orders before Christmas. No markets on the calendar. No events to prep for. Just packing, labeling, and reflecting on a season that stretched me, surprised me, and filled my cup in ways I didn’t expect. This one isn’t about hustle. It’s about completion. I’m proud of the markets I showed up for. Proud of the craft parties I hosted. Proud of the connections I made, the orders fulfilled, and the risks I took. And just as proud of myself for knowing when it’s time to pause. Sometimes the biggest flex isn’t doing more — it’s knowing when to slow down. So this is my quiet close for the season. A deep breath. A grateful heart. And a gentle transition into Christmas. Here’s to finishing strong, resting well, and letting this season end with intention. 💛

The first big fall pop-up is in the books—and wow, what a day! 💖 I’m so grateful for everyone who stopped by, shopped, and supported. The energy was amazing, and seeing people connect with my products in person was such a win. 🙌 But here’s the thing about markets and pop-ups: when the event ends, the work doesn’t. The after is just as important as the prep. The Outcomes 🎉 Biggest seller: the bundles!! People loved the cup with the matching bookmark and coaster! Sold out of my KPop. Kids loved them! Reserved my spot for next year! The Work That Follows 🛍️ Organizing: Packing everything back up, re-shelving inventory, and keeping things in order. Recounting: Checking numbers, what sold, what didn’t, and how bundles performed. Reflecting: What worked about my booth setup, what could change next time, and how I’ll prep differently moving forward. Recharging: Because the hustle is real, but rest fuels the next round. Pop-ups are about more than sales—they’re about learning, connection, ...

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...