Rise Up Designs

This week’s Flex Friday comes straight from a moment I had in my own business. ✨ I was given the opportunity to do a large order for a company—one of those projects that makes you stop and think, “Wow, this could be big.” I put together a detailed quote, included everything they’d need, and made sure it aligned with their budget. 💡 When they came back, though, they wanted something cheaper. And here’s where the decision point came in: I could have cut corners, lowered the price, and risked the quality of the work. But I know what my time, supplies, and attention to detail are worth. So instead, I said no—I wasn’t going to go the cheaper route. 🤝 They were kind and professional about it, but in the end, they decided to go with someone else. And you know what? I wasn’t upset. Not one bit. Because at the end of the day, I know what it takes to create something that reflects the care and quality I stand for. 🔥 That’s the flex. Standing firm in your worth is just as important as saying y...

 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 ...

 Okay, so real talk — I missed my usual Tuesday blog post. 😬 Life got lifey, and between packaging orders, updating listings, and pretending not to be distracted by TikTok, I blinked and it was already Wednesday. But hey — just because I missed a day doesn’t mean I missed the message. This week, I’ve been reflecting on something important: how and where I’m showing up as a small business owner. Right now, I’ve got a few platforms in the mix: 🛍 Etsy — where my wraps, UVDTF stickers, and print-on-demand products live. 🌐 My Website — home to my mobile craft party kits and premade glassware. 📲 Instagram & TikTok — where I’ve started posting product reels, behind-the-scenes moments, and getting more direct feedback. So why does this matter? Because the more I experiment, the more I realize: not every customer shops the same way. Some people are Etsy loyalists. Others want the flexibility of buying from a link in bio or just tapping “shop now” after watching a...

Let's be real for a second— the making part of running a handmade biz? It’s the fun stuff. It’s where I feel most creative, most me . But you know what doesn’t get talked about enough? All the other things I have to do that don’t involve vinyl, tumblers, or cute UVDTF stickers... but still make my business better. So today, I’m pulling back the curtain to share 3 non-crafty things I’m doing right now to help my shop grow—because spoiler alert: it’s not all glitter and glue guns. 1️⃣ Keeping My Inventory (and Etsy Listings) Organized Look, I don’t always love this part. It’s basically the laundry of my business—necessary, repetitive, and deeply un-fun. 😂 But lately, I’ve been double-checking my Etsy listings to make sure they match what I actually have on hand. Because that moment when you sell something that’s not even in your bin anymore? Yeah, that’s the worst. ✔️ I’ve cleaned up my item counts ✔️ I’ve updated product descriptions ✔️ I’m making sure my tags are stil...

 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 first started selling my handmade products, pricing felt like a guessing game. I wanted my items to be affordable, but I also knew I needed to cover my costs and actually make a profit.  Fast forward to today, and I can confidently say I’ve learned A LOT about pricing —mostly the hard way. 😅 If you’re a fellow maker struggling to price your work, here’s what I wish someone had told me sooner. 1. Your Time Has Value (Charge for It!) In the beginning, I priced my tumblers based on materials alone. Big mistake. I wasn’t factoring in the time it took to design, prep, apply, package, and ship each order. If you’re not charging for your time , you’re essentially working for free. And last time I checked, exposure doesn’t pay the bills. 💡 Lesson: Calculate how much time it actually takes to make each item and include that in your pricing. Your skills are valuable! 2. Stop Worrying About Being “Too Expensive” One of the hardest lessons to learn? Not everyone is your cus...

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...