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, 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...

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 weekend, I hit pause on the hustle and gave myself a full-on San Antonio-style staycation — right in the middle of Fiesta. And let me tell you — it was exactly what my creative soul needed. What Even Is Fiesta ? 🪅🎉 If you’re not from here, picture this: An 11-day explosion of color, music, food, culture, parades, and puro San Antonio pride. Originally started in 1891 to honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, Fiesta San Antonio has grown into the city’s biggest celebration — with proceeds going to scholarships, non-profits, and community programs. It’s joyful. It’s loud. It’s gloriously extra. It’s puro SA !! And we LOVE it. Staycation Highlights To soak in the full experience, I stayed at the Emily Morgan Hotel — a historic, slightly spooky icon right next to the Alamo. (Yes, I absolutely peeked down the hallway for ghosts and heard things at night but no regrets.) 🏨👻 We had dinner at Lone Star Café overlooking the Riverwalk — the gorgeous day the big a...