Today we’d like to introduce you to Karlee Miller.
Hi Karlee, 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.
I’ve lived in Michigan all my life. I guess that makes me a true Michigander, right? I grew up in a tiny town called Hart. If you’re traveling US 31 through Michigan, you’ll miss it, but the Silver Lake Sand dunes is more well-known, and that’s right near Hart.
I moved to Grand Haven in 2010, where I met my husband of almost 12 years but married for 10.5. I have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design and a minor in Marketing, which has really come in handy with my hobby/small business. It took some time, but with the help of my boss, yes, I also work a full-time job as Vice President of Michigan Insurance Group, we branded Maiden Hands and that took my hobby to the next level.
My hobby is very part-time, or as part-time as it can be. When I am not at my full-time job or crocheting, I am keeping up with my 10-year-old daughter, camping, reading, or trying to cram in a date night with my hubby.
I’ve always been interested in learning to crochet because my mom and grandmother make the most beautiful afghans. I wanted to carry on the crochet craft through another generation. My mom taught me to crochet while I was on maternity leave, and I finally got the hang of it! About a year after I learned to crochet, people started asking for hats and scarves, and I decided to start selling them. The business venture didn’t really take off until about 2014, when I started sharing the items I made on social media. I love creating and just can’t seem to put down my crochet hook.
Half Mile Handmade a store in Bay City, MI, was the very first place to invite me to sell my cup cozies in their store. Just a few months before this, I began dreaming up the possibilities of selling my handmade items in Michigan stores. I am a true believer that what you put out into the world is what the world will give back. Over the last 6 years, I’ve sold in a handful of stores, attended a few markets, and ventured into wholesale as well.
Cup cozies are easily one of customers’ favorites, with beanies, scrunchies, wash clothes, and crochet patterns following close behind.
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?
Finding the harmony and balancing work life, my hobby turned small business and family was the biggest challenge I faced when my hobby was at its busiest point.
When I started selling items, I was just a few years into my carrier, so I was hoping for a little extra coffee money or an extra date night here and there, but at times when our budget was rather tight, the extra money got us a tank of gas before payday or a few groceries. Recognizing our family needed the money I was making from a hobby was an added stress to something that was supposed to be a hobby. Losing sight of why I started my hobby because it became a necessity was an obstacle I had to overcome.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Creativity has always been a part of who I am. I am creative in how I design crochet patterns, choose colors for a new project, how I work with my team at work & how I plan Mommy & me dates.
I specialize in handmade accessories and quick crochet patterns. I am known for my bright colors and fun Michigan-made items.
I am proud of creating something from just an idea. This happens in my crochet business as well as my design work. It’s one of my favorite parts of the process.
I think my creativity sets me apart from others.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Detail-oriented, empathy, and creativity are all characteristics that have been important in my success.
Pricing:
- Crochet Patterns $2-$4
- Cup Cozies $6-$8
- Beanies/Hats $25-$30
Contact Info:
- Website: www.maidenhands.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maidenhands/
- Facebook: facebook.com/maidenhands
- Other: etsy.com/shop/MaidenHandsCo
