Check Out Melissa Zink’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa Zink. 

Hi Melissa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Hi! My name is Melissa (Mel), and I am a teacher turned stay-at-home mama to two little ones-River (3) and Haven (almost 1). 

My grandma taught me how to crochet when I was 8, and I was instantly hooked. For years I dreamed of having a small business where I could sell the products I poured my heart into. However, there was never enough space in my life to actually make it happen. 

Then…March 2020 hit, and like so many others, I had what seemed like endless time on my hands. I was finally able to make my dream a reality, and in May of 2020, I opened my Etsy shop-River of Life Gifts. The name is inspired by my son as well as my faith. 

Most of my initial marketing was done through Instagram; then, once I built a regular customer base, I wanted to start selling at craft shows and art fairs. This year I was able to be a vendor at 3 successful shows, and I absolutely loved the in-person experience-especially getting to meet so many new people! I also had a goal this year of getting my products into a brick-and-mortar shop and that happened in October-I; now have products at The Artsy Umbrella in Berkley. 

I’m always humbled when I take a step back and think about how I’m living my actual dream life right now-staying home with my kids and running my crochet small business. I feel so thankful every single day and am excited to continue going after my goals! 

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?
One challenge I have faced is balancing my time. As a stay-at-home mom, it’s tough to not have a specific place or set hours to work. I crochet here and there during naps/after bedtime/when the kids are playing independently, but there’s also managing social media, marketing, packing/shipping, etc… to take care of. It feels like something has to give when I have a lot of orders or market prep to do. 

Another challenge has been pricing. I have a hard time charging for what my time is actually worth. Most people don’t realize how much goes into one product. I want my products to be affordable, but I also need to value my time (which is also time that’s taken away from my family). I’ve had a lot of encouragement in this area over the past few years from fellow fiber artists, and I’m thankful for their input! 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I crochet in a variety of styles to create products for all ages. 

I specialize in making gifts that will bring comfort and joy to little ones (my bestsellers are sunshine plushies). 

Something I am known for is making custom orders. Someone will send me an idea of what they want, and we will discuss size/pricing options. Then I will make their idea come to life. Some of my favorite custom orders have been a rainbow blanket, a unicorn, a sloth, and a panda pillow. 

I’m most proud of the sentiment behind many of my products. A handful of them are inspired by close friends who have lost their babies too soon or are on a difficult health journey. If you see a product with a name attached to it (Selah Bows, Eden Scrunchies, Sonny Lovey, etc…), that product is made with a little extra love, light, and prayer. I’m also proud of how this small business provides me an avenue to give to an important cause where I otherwise wouldn’t be able to financially. 10% of my sales go to Sanctuary Services which provides therapy for trauma survivors. 

I think what sets me apart from others is the love and intention that goes into everything I make. 

What matters most to you? Why?
I want love to come forth from everything I do. From conversations at craft fairs, to handwritten notes that get sent with orders to how I steward my income. I want each customer to feel like they are seen, thought of, and loved. I want them to feel the difference between buying from me as opposed to buying from Amazon. 

Pricing:

• $15 Sunshine Plushie
• $15 Set of Selah Bows
• $45 Dino Lovey
• $25 Small Rainbow
• $35 Sonny Lovey

Contact Info:

• Website: https://riveroflifegifts.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riveroflifegifts2/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/River-of-Life-Gifts/100058772922747/