Today we’d like to introduce you to Alison Martin.
Hi Alison, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Alison Martin, I am the owner of a small business based out of Garden City, Michigan called ChalkWithLove. In 2019, I began a small business making Chalkboard signs for local customers in Metro-Detroit for events such as weddings, birthdays, and special events. What started as a creative hobby and a way to make a little extra income slowly few as people began asking me to customize more and more things.
For years, ChalkwithLove was something I built on the side while working a full-time job in logistics and raising my family. I’m a wife and a mother, and my husband and kids have been a huge part of my journey. Between my 9-5 job, children’s activities, family life and running my business, there have been plenty of late nights spent painting, lettering, answering messages and finishing orders. I never really set out with a huge business plan – I just kept saying yes to every opportunity and adapted along the way.
I honestly never expected it to become what it is today.
Then 2026 happened, and everything seemed to take off. The little business I started in 2019 began turning into a true creative business and something I could truly see continuing to grow into something much bigger in the future.
Today, I hand-letter and hand-paint just about anything my customers can imagine. I create customs sports balls, cowbells, paper banners, signs and personalized pieces and I also teach Paint and Mingle parties.
What I love most is that every order is custom and has a story behind it. Whether it’s something special for a senior night, a passionate athlete, a birthday or special event – I get to create something completely personal.
My family has watched my journey from the very beginning and has seen late nights, piles of paint supplies, and endless painting. ChalkWithLove would not be where we are today without the support of my wonderful husband and kids. I am incredibly grateful of their continued support and encouragement.
ChalkWithLove isn’t just a small business. It’s something I built while building a life, raising a family, working a full-time career and creating one custom piece at a time. I cannot wait to see where this journey goes next ! !
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?
I would say the struggles mainly work / life balance. Running a small business out of your home allows you the freedom to work on orders alongside of my family being right there with me. It is challenging to give yourself a good work / life balance to ensure all areas of your life remain fulfilling and gratifying. I am grateful to be able to build something I love while still being present for my family.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
ChalkWithLove specializes in making customs pieces for any occassion. I am known for my custom sport balls and Paint & Mingle classes. I am most proud of my Paint & Mingle classes; it has truly allowed me to step out of my comfort zone. I have never been big on public speaking, but with my passion to paint and create it allowed me to drive on my dreams and find a confidence in teaching others to find their creativeness. I truly believe being able to customize almost anything my customers come up with sets me apart from other local artists.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My advice for networking would be to constantly post/share your work on social media. My entire business has been built off of social media content and word of mouth. Truly engaging with each and every customer is also a wonderful way to continue networking in your local area.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/ChalkWithLove
