By Alessandra Kelly
Even during this difficult time of Covid19, many small businesses were created to bring some light in this apparent world of darkness. Not only do some sell some fashionable clothes, but others specialize in little accessories to personalize your style to the fullest!
To list a few of these special businesses, I interviewed the creators of Alum and Ink, AccessorizeUrSelfie, Teecaake, and JeanaDraws.
Alum and Ink is an online creative store that sells original artwork inspired by nature, mythology, and dreams in various different forms such as enamel pins, charms, and more!
AccessorizeUrSelfie holds beautiful handmade jewelry selling on Etsy, a platform which allows vendors to sell handmade or vintage items and craft supplies online!
Teecaake remains a small business based in the UK, primarily selling Harry Styles inspired artwork through wall art, stationary, clothing, and more!
JeanaDraws sells adorable enamel pins based on her personal favorites, either resulting in her own personal creations or personal adaptations of different characters!
JeanaDraws
In February, JeanaDraws started her first kickstarter to create her artwork of otters to life! At the time, she hadn’t decided what form her artwork would take, however, people simply loved her designs and with that she fell in love with pin making. Her first attempt at an online store was a complete success! When she officially opened her online store, she was pleasantly surprised to receive orders right away. She mentions her mom and apartment mates being her greatest supporters as they give her good suggestions and ideas for future projects, as well as helping her package her products.
Teecaake
What persuaded you to create your business?
I really wanted something for myself, Art has always been the one thing that’s empowered me and I wanted to make a business out of it.
How many attempts did you make to start your business?
I would say three times. I was doing Teecaake on and off while doing my bachelor’s degree so Teecaake often took a back seat. However, as of Christmas 2019, I gave the brand its most recent revamp while adding new products and drawing more than ever before.
How long until you received your first order?
I received my first order within one week!
Who remain(s) your biggest supporter(s)?
My biggest supporters are definitely Harry Styles fans!
Alum and Ink
What persuaded you to create your business?
I was working as a web developer as a freelancer and instructor at the time. I felt like I was getting further and further away from my passion, which was art, so I decided to start my business just as a hobby and to get back to my roots.
How many attempts did you make to start your business?
This was my first attempt at this business.
How long until you received your first order?
My first order, from someone who wasn’t a friend or family member, was one week after starting the business.
Who remain(s) your biggest supporter(s)?
I’ve met so many amazing and kind people in my journey, my biggest supporters are the new friends I’ve met along the way who come by every time I post on Instagram, laugh at my corny jokes, leave a comment or a like, or check out my shop every time I put up a new product. I can’t say enough how much I appreciate them all.
AccessorizeUrSelfie
What persuaded you to create your business?
6 years ago, I became a single mom of 6 and knew I had to be able to work from home. So I started by gluing together whatever I could find that I thought someone might think was cool!
How many attempts did you make to start your business?
It only took one attempt with Etsy because it is truly the best way to start a business from home
How long until you received your first order?
I received my first order in less than a week which can happen to anyone opening an Etsy store as long as they have unique products, with professional pictures.
Who remain(s) your biggest supporter(s)?
The majority of my business comes from other moms who want party favors for their children, women who need jewelry or party favors for weddings, and people who believe in chakra healing.