Over the last few months I’ve gotten the opportunity to meet some incredible women. Boss ladies like Landon Lacey or Lindsey from Gathered. Female entrepreneurs, who create, and connect. It’s amazing to be able to get to know these ladies and bring them into my life. It’s something that I’d like to do more regularly so I’ve added a new series to the blog called “The Makers.” It features women who are “makers” and adding some much needed beauty into our world.
So with that I’m introducing another boss lady: Karen, a sign making creative who owns WoodieSigns ! I met Karen at the local farmer’s market over the summer and couldn’t stop eyeing her work. She’s a growing presence and artist in our community and much of her work is sold directly or via Etsy. Check out the monogram sign she made me for our home – its so elegant and is now hanging proudly in my living room!
Below is a little more about Karen in her own words:
Why did you start Woodiesigns?
To put myself out there. I wanted to meet new people and make new connections. My first business was called the Classroom Creative – a website dedicated to sharing lesson plans and teaching ideas for my fellow educators. I loved it but I didn’t get to experience as many personal connections through it. With Woodiesigns I get the satisfaction of meeting my clients and creating tangible art that others enjoy.
I’ve also always loved working with wood and three dimensional art. Years ago, when I was furnishing my first condo I found such joy in finding and restoring my furniture finds. I’ve secretly wanted to be a girl carpenter and would put wrought iron and wood together to make tables. I even laid my hardwood floors – so I’ve always loved working with wood. Through a combination of all these things WoodieSigns was born!
How did you come up with the name of your shop?
My husband’s nickname is Woody, he’s the most humble and lucky man I know. I loved the play on words and picked the feminine version: Woodie.
Where do you get your inspiration for quotes?
Everywhere and anywhere. Since I was raised by a single mother I am drawn to female empowerment quotes. Anything that makes a woman smile I am all for ! As for my funny quotes, I draw a lot from my personal experiences actually, especially my son and his potty mouth! My friends know that my own made up words have also found a way into my signs too (absofuckinlutely). 🙂
Do you have a favorite sign?
All of them. I constantly hear myself saying this one is my favorite every time I make something new! I guess you can say I have a lot of favorites!!!
What do you love about running your own business?
I am able to follow my passion wherever it takes me. It’s an amazing feeling! As a mother I also value the flexibility it gives me. For example, if I want to read to my son’s class in the middle of the day I can.
What is one of the challenges of running your own business?
Working late nights. My family always comes first. Sometimes work doesn’t start until 8:30 p.m. Thankfully I have amazing support from my husband and mother – with them I can have my business and follow my passions.
How is your business expanding?
So many of us are looking to express our creative side and I’ve been hosting sign making parties for get togethers like bachelorette parties, birthdays, girl’s nights. If you or anyone you know is interested give me an email! It’s been a huge success and a great way to expand my business and put myself out there.
Thank you to Karen for taking the time to answer my questions and partner with me on this post!
If you are interested in hosting your own sign or pillow party contact Karen at woodiesigns@gmail.com!
Below you can find Karen’s shop on Etsy as well as her site and social links.
