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Conversations with Savannah Watson

Today we’d like to introduce you to Savannah Watson

Hi Savannah, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been a dreamer and someone who jumps into things headfirst. My journey to owning Crafty Savvy’s is a reflection of that. Before this, I was in the military as a Farsi linguist, an experience that took me all over the world and exposed me to so many different cultures and perspectives. But deep down, I’ve always been an artist at heart.

When I left the military, I knew I wanted to do something creative, but I didn’t have a clear plan. One day, on a bit of a whim, I decided to open a business that combined a few of my favorite things, art, community, and a little bit of fun. That’s how Crafty Savvy’s was born.

I opened in December 2023 with the idea of creating a space where people could connect through creativity. The store has three parts: a front area where local artisans rent shelf space to sell their handmade goods, a middle section where I serve boba tea and coffee, and a back studio where I teach art classes and offer walk-in crafts. It’s a mix of everything I love, and while it hasn’t always been easy, it’s been an incredible journey.

I started this business with a passion for creating and a belief that it would be something special. Over time, I’ve learned so much about running a business, supporting local artists, and balancing creativity with responsibility. It’s been a wild ride for sure.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, not at all. The first year was rough, which I expected, but being in a small town made it even more challenging. I didn’t have any prior knowledge of running a business, so I’ve had to learn everything as I go, figuring out things like managing finances, marketing, and keeping customers engaged. It’s been a lot of trial and error.

One of the biggest struggles has been finding a steady flow of customers. Small towns have a slower pace, and getting people through the door consistently has been tough. There were definitely moments where I questioned if I made the right choice.

But through all of it, the support from the community and the friends I’ve made through the store has been incredible. That’s really what’s kept me going. Seeing people come in, enjoy the space, and appreciate what I’ve built makes all the hard work worth it.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At my core, I’m an artist who loves dreamy, ethereal creations. I paint intuitively, often focusing on soft, cloudy themes and female portraits. I don’t follow strict techniques, I’ve never been formally taught, I just let the colors and forms flow naturally.

What I’m most proud of is creating a space where others can explore their own creativity, whether it’s through the classes I teach or the walk-in crafts at my store. Seeing people who don’t consider themselves artists come in, try something new, and leave feeling inspired, that’s what makes it all worth it.

What sets me apart is that I never intended to be a traditional business owner or art teacher, I’m just someone who loves creating and wanted to share that passion with others.

How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happy is collecting experiences, learning new things, and living exceptionally. I’ve never been someone who wants a routine, predictable life, I thrive on adventure, creativity, and new challenges. Whether it’s traveling to a new place, picking up a new skill, or diving into a spontaneous idea (like opening a business), I find joy in constantly evolving.

For me, happiness comes from feeling like I’m truly living, not just going through the motions. I love immersing myself in different cultures, trying things outside my comfort zone, and embracing the unexpected. Every experience, good or bad, adds to the story, and that’s what keeps life exciting.

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