Today we’d like to introduce you to Christy Clarke.
Hi Christy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Even as a little girl, I dreamed of having my own shop. It wasn’t until years later that I got serious about my interest and started researching how to make it happen. My husband encouraged me to pursue my goals and gifted me with the software and equipment that I needed to get started. At first, I played around with designing gift tags as a hobby. Later, after a crushing personal loss, I threw all my energy into opening my Etsy shop and the creative outlet brought healing and joy. Fast forward seven years to today and for the second year in a row, one of my Halloween gift tags has become a bestseller on Etsy. Last spring, my 11-year-old son and his friend who both have entrepreneurial spirits encouraged me to create my own website. They helped me get the website running. I even learned how to code which is something I never thought I’d be able to do – ha!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It was very slow going at first. I wasn’t selling many products but I loved creating the designs so I kept working. I remember being so excited every time I made a sale (who am I kidding, I’m still so excited)! I spent so many hours researching the best equipment, supplies, vendors, etc. I’m self-taught and it was a lot of trial and error. Two things that I learned early on about the obstacles – to take a break when things seem insurmountable, and to persistently return to work through it all. It never fails that taking a break when I’m struggling enables me to see the problem in a different light when I return. I’ve learned to be consistent in my work; I try to work at it every day, even if I only have a few minutes at times.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Merry Moments Design Co.?
Merry Moments Design Co. specializes in holiday and birthday gift tags, personalized enclosure cards, note cards, notepads and invitations. Holiday gift tags, especially for Halloween, Christmas and Valentines, are my best sellers. I offer digital options for customers who would like to print the tags themselves. What sets me apart is that my designs are personalized and customized, and made with care by me. It thrills me when a customer makes a custom design request. I love hearing a customer’s ideas and trying to make them come to life. I especially enjoy working with watercolor graphics, gingham patterns, monograms and quirky sayings like, “Valentine, you are one in a Melon” with a watermelon graphic or “Soapin’ you have a Merry Christmas!” I do most of my own printing and quality control with a meticulous inspection of every order. I love wrapping my tags in cellophane bags with ribbon – they make unique, personalized gifts. I’m proud of my customer service, responding quickly to customer requests and offering quick and free shipping. To think that my designs are a small part of my customer’s life celebrations brings me great joy!
What were you like growing up?
I grew up in Augusta, GA, with a loving and supportive family and friend network who are some of my most loyal customers. Growing up, I loved any kind of stationery or paper product. While attending the University of Georgia, I worked in several different card shops and even wrapped gifts for a department store one holiday season. I went on to attend graduate school at UGA, where I earned my Master’s in Social Work. I continue to enjoy my part-time work as a Licensed Social Worker. As a young adult, I was a friend who loved to design and print shower invitations. I even created our Save-the-date before my wedding to my now-husband of 15 years. Paper has always been a passion for me, and I’m grateful that I get to do this work that I love. I could not balance multiple jobs and roles without the support of my husband and two wonderful sons. Shout out also to Rosie, our big rescue pup who keeps me company while I work.
Pricing:
- Digital Tag Design $6.00
- Printed Tag Designs start at $18
- Note Cards $26
- Notepads $23
- Invitations $24
Contact Info:
- Website: MerryMomentsDesignCo.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/merrymomentsdesignco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MerryMomentsDesignCo
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/MerryMomentsDesignCo
Image Credits
Bennett Clarke
