From Canvas to Commerce: My Journey of Creation and Resilience
When I began reimagining my artwork into products in 2018, I had no idea what lay ahead. All I had was creative passion and a deep belief that my designs deserved to live beyond the walls of my apartment. With equal parts excitement and nerves, I took those first tentative steps into product design and e-commerce — unaware of the twists, turns, and lessons that would shape my journey.
Humble Beginnings
My first attempts were far from perfect. I still remember the thrill of opening that first sample — holding something I had imagined and created, now real. But that excitement quickly shifted to reality when I noticed the colors were off and the sizing wasn’t quite correct. Instead of feeling discouraged, I saw it as an opportunity to learn. Each mistake became a lesson: the importance of color management, understanding production processes, and how challenging it can be to translate digital designs into beautiful, functional products.
The Unexpected Roadblocks
Building a creative business is rarely a smooth road. There have been more bumps than I imagined — production delays, shipping issues, and the global challenges that impacted all small businesses in 2020. Sometimes, I seriously questioned whether I could continue or whether my dream of creating beautiful, functional art products was sustainable.
One of the hardest moments came when a manufacturer I had relied on suddenly closed their doors, leaving me with unfulfilled orders and disappointed customers. I could have given up — but instead, I spent weeks working around the clock, searching for a new production partner, and personally communicating with each customer. That stressful chapter taught me lessons I carry with me every day: how to navigate unexpected challenges, build stronger business relationships, and always have a backup plan.
Learning to Rest Without Quitting
My most important lesson is the difference between quitting and simply resting. Running a business while constantly creating can be exhausting — especially while managing lupus and a traumatic brain injury. Sometimes, my creative well felt completely dry, and I'd sit staring at a blank canvas with nothing left to give.
But I've learned that stepping back isn't failure — it's part of the process. Rest and space are necessary to recharge and find fresh inspiration. Some of my favorite ideas have come after those quiet moments of pause when I returned to my work with fresh eyes and renewed energy.,
Redefining Success
This seven-year journey has also transformed how I define success. In the beginning, I measured success by numbers: sales, profits, and social media growth. But over time, I've learned that true success is found in persistence — in showing up, even when it's hard, in perseverance when the path isn't clear, and in having the courage to keep creating through doubt, setbacks, and personal challenges.
I'll never forget what one of my mentors told me early on: "It's not a sprint — it's a marathon." Those words have carried me through challenging moments, reminding me that building something meaningful takes time, patience, and steady progress. Now, I celebrate the small victories while watching the bigger vision.
Like many new entrepreneurs, I initially followed the standard advice about setting high-profit margins. But I quickly realized that what worked on paper didn't align with my heart or customers. Over time, I've shifted to a pricing approach that balances accessibility with sustainability. This adjustment reflects my entire journey — stepping away from conventional business formulas and choosing what feels authentic and right for me and the people I serve.
I've also prioritized reinvesting in my business rather than chasing quick profits. Whether partnering with new manufacturers, exploring better production methods, or refining product quality, I've focused on laying a strong foundation for long-term growth.
Some of my most rewarding moments haven't been significant sales milestones or public recognition. Instead, they've been the quieter moments — sharing resources with fellow creatives, offering advice, or cheering someone else on through their struggles. Those connections remind me that success is about building something real, staying true to your values, and lifting others along the way.
The Continuous Learning Curve
Seven years in, I’m still learning every single day. I’ve taught myself everything and built this business from the ground up — from creating an online shop and learning product photography, writing code, to writing descriptions that communicate the heart and story behind each piece. I’ve had to dive into SEO, shipping logistics, and social media strategy while figuring it out as I go.
I’ve also learned how to balance ambition with self-care, constantly adapting my work to what my body and mind can handle. Living with chronic health challenges has taught me patience in ways I never expected — reminding me that slow progress is still progress.
What keeps me going is seeing my designs out in the world: receiving photos from customers using and loving my products or reading a message from someone whose day was brightened by something I created.
Looking Forward
Looking back over these past seven years, I'm so grateful for each lesson, each challenge, and every person who has supported me along the way. I'm proud not just of the art I've created or the business I've built, but of the persistence and resilience it has taken to get here.
Today, I continue working toward my bigger vision. I focus on the creative process while seeking partnerships with established brands to bring my designs to more products and people around the world. Every small step forward brings me closer to that dream.
When you purchase one of my designs, you're not just buying a product. You're supporting an independent artist's dream to create without limits and share color, joy, and inspiration with the world.
I can't wait to see where these patterns travel next — both on your adventures and as my artistic journey unfolds.
And Now…
After seven years of building, learning, and creating, I'm excited to introduce my brand-new Travel Collection!
What makes this collection truly special is the unique combination of my original signature artwork and designs, which create depth and visual interest you won't find anywhere else. Every bag and travel accessory becomes a wearable gallery—a functional piece that carries both your essentials and authentic artistic expression wherever you go.
These pieces are designed to brighten your adventures and reflect the heart of this journey: creativity, resilience, and joy.
If you'd like to follow along with me for behind-the-scenes stories, new product releases, and inspiration:
Thank you for reading. Have a creative day.
— Alisa Marie