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 weekend was the perfect exhale after an incredible stretch of creativity, connection, and community. On Friday night, I hosted a private wreath party in someone’s home — it was intimate, joyful, and full of laughs. Everyone’s wreaths turned out beautifully, and you could feel the pride in every bow tied and ribbon fluffed. Saturday morning came early, but it was worth it — I hosted a glass wrap craft party at a local church with 12 amazing individuals. Watching them dive into something new, smile through the process, and even say “I think I just found a new hobby!” made my whole day. The church leader was warm and welcoming, and I have a good feeling we’ll get to partner again. Who knows, I may have even found a new church home. This week, I’ll be working just a couple of days before officially shifting into recharge mode — celebrating Thanksgiving, resting up, and soaking in the moments with those I love. Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you’re crafting with m...

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...

This week, World Mental Health Day landed right in the middle of a hectic season—and it was a reminder I didn’t know I needed. Between prepping for holiday markets, running Rise Up Designs, crafting orders, hosting mobile parties, and keeping up with everyday life… it’s easy to forget to check in with yourself. But the truth is: when you are the business, your energy, your clarity, your peace—they matter more than any product drop or social post. So today, I’m giving myself a little space to breathe. To slow down. To say “I’m doing enough. I am enough.” And if you’re reading this and feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or like you’re running on fumes—I see you. Take that pause. Even a small one. Your future self will thank you. 💛

This week, I’ve been thinking about how important it is to have a support system—especially when you’re building something from the ground up. Support looks different for everyone. Sometimes it’s your family reminding you how far you’ve come. Sometimes it’s your friends hyping up your latest product drop. And sometimes… it’s that fellow crafter on Instagram you’ve never met in person, but who always shares your posts or checks in to say,  “Keep going.” Whether it’s a pep talk when doubt creeps in, an extra pair of hands at a pop-up, or a quick message that says,  “You’ve got this,” —it matters. A lot. So if you’ve ever supported Rise Up Designs with your words, your clicks, your orders, or your encouragement: Thank you. You're part of my why. Here’s to showing up for each other—and remembering we don’t have to do it all alone. 💛

This week I followed up with someone who had inquired about a big order—a bulk request for 40 wraps. I sent a kind message, just touching base, and she replied that she’d reach out when the time was right. That moment? It was a gentle reminder that not everything has to be rushed. And that sometimes,  trusting the timing  is the boldest business move you can make. So while I wait to see how that opportunity unfolds, I’m not standing still. I’m focused on what’s right in front of me: ✨ Prepping for the holidays ✨ Stocking up for my fall and winter pop-ups ✨ Growing my mobile craft parties ✨ Making sure I have the product (and support!) I need to show up fully It’s easy to get caught in the cycle of “more, faster, now.” But this season? I’m choosing peace over panic. Alignment over urgency.  Trust over hustle. So today, I’m sipping on some calm confidence—knowing that if it’s meant for me, it’ll happen. And in the meantime, I’ll keep showing up, shipping joy, and building s...

This week, I did something both exciting and terrifying: I placed my largest wrap order ever with my printer. 😳💥 As I’ve shared in past posts, my Texas college sports wraps have been doing so well—better than I even expected. Sales picked up fast, inventory went down even faster, and I found myself in a bit of a pinch: I haven’t even started my fall markets yet, and I’m already selling out. I knew I needed to restock—and not just a few sheets here and there. I needed to go big. I sat with it. I prayed over it. And deep down, I knew: this wasn’t just spending. This was investing. Investing in momentum. Investing in quality. Investing in the Create-a-Cup Bar I’m planning for my pop-ups. Investing in myself. So I reached out to my vendor, made the call, and placed the order. Was it scary? Absolutely. Was it the right move? 100%. Because sometimes, growth looks like risk. And sometimes, faith sounds like clicking “confirm” on your biggest order yet. Here’s to trusting your gut. Here’s to...

This week didn’t come with a huge launch. No new product drop. No market event. No flashy sales numbers. But something even better happened. I had a few small moments—tiny little nudges—that reminded me why I love running Rise Up Designs. Like: A returning customer who left the sweetest message in the notes section. Someone tagging me in their story using a wrap they bought months ago. A five-star review that said, “I’ll definitely be back.” It doesn’t take much to recharge a maker’s heart. Sometimes just knowing that something I created—wrapped, shipped, and hoped would bring a smile—did bring a smile… is all I need to keep going. The world is loud. The algorithms are wild. But the real wins? They show up in quiet little ways that feel personal, genuine, and earned. So today, I’m sipping on gratitude. For the small things. For the quiet encouragement. For the people who take the time to say, “Hey, I see you.” Because in this business? A little really does go a long way. 💛

This week, something I’ve been working on quietly behind the scenes finally went live—my Texas College Football Wraps officially launched! 🏈✨ Check them out! They’re bold, fun, and full of hometown pride—just in time for tailgate season. And what’s made this even more exciting is that the launch wasn’t even in my original plan. It came from a message. One of my customers reached out asking if I had a certain school… and that was the spark. I started designing, testing, and listing—and before I knew it, I had a collection forming. The response so far has been incredible. Orders are rolling in, and I’m already adding more based on continued feedback. This week’s reminder? Listen when your customers speak. Their ideas might just unlock your next great product. So today, I’m sipping on some Sunday gratitude: for community, for college football, and for all of you who continue to cheer me on (even when it’s not your team). 😉

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...

I’m a huge fan of binge-watching. Give me a good psychological twist, a flawed main character, and some next-level drama, and I’m in. Two of my all-time favorites? How to Get Away with Murder and Scandal. Lately, I’ve been deep in Scandal , and Olivia Pope has me in full Gladiator mode. She doesn’t wait for permission. She makes a plan, trusts her gut, and gets. things. done. And that energy? That “it’s handled” energy? It hit me hard this week. Here’s the real-life twist: I’ve been searching for high-quality, Texas college football tumbler wraps—something bold, fan-worthy, and tailgate-ready. But what I found? Didn’t match the vision. So, I did what Olivia would do...I fixed it myself. 🔥 This football season, I’m excited to introduce a brand-new collection of Texas college football tumbler wraps, featuring: 🏈 University of Texas (Hook ’em) 🏈 UTSA (Go Runners!) 🏈 Texas Tech 🏈 Baylor 🏈 SMU These designs are made to hype your game day, wrap your fandom in style, and represent you...

July was a month of showing up. 💪🏽 I launched a new wave of wraps, fresh totes 👜, and a new set of cups 🥤. But the big leap? I designed three of those wraps myself — and that felt... scary. 😬 There’s always that whisper: “What if no one likes it?” “What if it doesn’t sell?” “What if I’m not actually good at this?” 😔 But I did it anyway. I put my designs out there. And guess what? They’re selling. 🎉 Not just once, but steadily.  Each sale feels like a little vote of confidence — not just in the product, but in me . 🫶🏽 And the reviews? 🔥 One of my recent favorites mentioned the packaging — and that made my whole week. It’s not just about the product — it’s about the experience . ✨📦 That moment someone opens their order and feels joy, surprise, or care — that’s what I’m chasing. I pack every order with love 💌 — bonus stickers, wrap instructions, care cards, and tiny extras — because I want customers to feel like they’re unwrapping a little happy moment 💖, not j...

When I launched my Etsy shop in February, I honestly just wanted to get my creations out into the world—wraps, glasses, totes, and tumblers that reflected heart, hustle, and a little sparkle. Fast forward to today, and I’m celebrating some serious milestones: 📊 2025 Stats So Far 10,500+ Views 4,680 Visits 250 Orders $2,021 Revenue Y’all. That’s nearly $2,000 in less than six months —from my craft table to mailboxes across the country. I’ve packed every single order myself, usually late at night after working my full-time job. I’ve learned a ton (and cracked a few straws along the way 😅), but I wouldn’t change a thing. 💡 What I’ve Learned People want to DIY – One of the biggest surprises was how many customers preferred wrap-only kits vs. premade glasses. That pivot taught me to listen to the market, not just my own preferences. Every customer matters – Whether it’s a $5 sticker or a $25 tumbler set, I’m building relationships, not just revenue. Consistenc...

A Sippin’ Sunday reflection on identity, small biz ownership, and choosing your message. ⚠️ Heads up : This post contains a pretty big spoiler from the new Superman movie. So if you haven’t seen it yet and plan to — go sip your iced coffee, buy your movie ticket, and come back later. I won’t be mad. Pinky promise. This Sunday I’m sipping on a protein iced latte with sugar free creamer, staring at my wrap orders and thinking about… Superman’s parents. (Yes, this is where we are now. Go with it.) 🛸 The Message from Krypton In the movie, Superman finds this old holographic message from his Kryptonian parents. At first, it’s beautiful: "Be a light. Protect this world. Lead with purpose." I was like: YES. King behavior. Give us legacy. Give us hope. But later — plot twist — the rest of the message plays. And let me tell you, it’s giving... red flag energy. Suddenly it’s: "Rule over these weak people. Take multiple wives. Spread your Kryptonian DNA far and wide....

 OK, so I did a thing I’ve never done before...I paid to boost one of my TikTok videos. 👀 I know...I know...I’m not someone who throws money at ads all the time — I’m a small business, and I like to keep things lean. But I’ve been curious… what would happen if I gave a solid video a little paid push? I decided to test it out with a behind-the-scenes packing video (because who doesn’t love seeing the magic happen?), and y’all — the difference was noticeable. 📈 Here’s what changed: On average, my TikToks get around 100 views The boosted video? It hit 2,000+ views I saw a spike in Etsy traffic, like alot! Sales jumped from 1–2 a day to 5 in one day , and that stayed steady for a few days after RIGHT!? I also tried boosting a post on Instagram and Facebook , and while I did see traffic, it wasn’t nearly as impactful as TikTok - or maybe it takes more time. TikTok definitely gave me the boost. What I think made it work: I picked a video that was already doing ...

 Let’s talk about something that every shop owner stresses over at some point: “How do I get my listings SEEN on Etsy?” When I first launched Rise Up Designs, I spent hours creating products — tumblers, wraps, keychains — and then stared at my stats wondering why no one was finding them. 😩 Sound familiar? Now, I’m not saying I cracked the Etsy algorithm (I wish! 😂), but I have figured out a few key moves that made a difference in getting found — and getting sales. So for today’s Flex Friday, I’m sharing 3 real things that helped my listings show up more consistently. 1️⃣ Get serious about your titles Your title isn’t just a description — it’s a search tool. I used to write cutesy or vague titles, but now I start by thinking: 💡 What would my ideal customer type into the search bar? Example: Instead of “Sparkle Teacher Cup” I go with:  Teacher Tumbler with Straw – Back to School Gift – Glitter Glass Can – Teacher Appreciation Gift Idea It may sound less poetic, b...

This week, while having my morning coffee and loading new listings, I caught myself thinking… “Am I posting this back-to-school item too early? It’s June!” 🎒✏️ But here’s the thing — as shop owners, we HAVE to think ahead. Customers need time to: ✅ Find us ✅ Save our items to their favorites ✅ Come back when they’re ready to buy I just listed my Teacher Survival Kit (fun canvas bag with a keychain, jumbo paper clip, sanitizer, tissues, pens/pencils, gum + mints). 🎁 It’s the perfect little gift for teachers, but if I waited until August? I’d be late! Same goes for my upcoming Wicked Wraps launching later this summer — gotta give products (and my tags!) time to work their magic and reach the right people. ✨ Lesson of the week: 📅 Plan ahead. 📢 Post early. ⏳ Give your customers — and your products — time to do their thing. Happy Sippin’ Sunday, friends! ☕️💛 Until next time… Jecca

 OK, let’s be real... shipping is one of those “ugh” parts of running a creative shop. It’s not the fun glittery part ✨ — but if you don’t keep an eye on those costs, they will EAT your profits alive! 🐍 Since I run both an Etsy shop and my mobile craft business, I’ve tested all kinds of ways to ship smarter, not harder. So today’s Flex Friday is all about sharing what’s actually worked for me — in real life, with real orders. Here are my top 5 ways to save on shipping (aka: more $$ for Starbucks runs + new supplies 🙌): 1️⃣ Rethink your packaging 🎁 Size + weight = shipping cost. Even shaving 1 ounce or going down one box size can save you money: Use poly or bubble mailers when it’s safe to do so Cut down your box size (no need to ship air!) Keep packaging light — but still pretty for your brand ✨ 2️⃣ Score supplies on auction apps 🤑 One of my favorite hacks: I use local auction sites! 🎯 Here in San Antonio, I use an app called MacBid and bid on returned/overstock shipping s...

 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...