Meet The Maker: Julie of Julie Ann Art

June 26, 2015 0 Comments

Our store is known for the uniquely hilarious cards we have on display. Whether its Mothers Day, Fathers Day, a birthday, or even a chance to say 'I'm Sorry', we've got you covered. We wouldn't be what we are without them, so we've got to give a hand to Julie from Julie Ann Art for providing us with best sellers time and time again! We absolutely love Julie and the clean, simple nature of her cards. Take a look at the interview below and hear about how Julie got started, her favorite places to eat in Costa Mesa and more!

Hi Julie! Describe Julie Ann Art in a few short sentences.

Julie Ann Art is a paper goods line that specializes in greeting cards. We take a fun, honest approach towards relationships, holidays and special occasions.

When/Why did you decide to start your own small business?

My business started out as a hobby about seven years ago. In the early years, I was creating for fun and honestly didn't really even dream that doing it as a JOB was a possibility. That said, I think it was my day-to-day decisions that organically grew my hobby into a business. I continuously, almost subconsciously, chose to make new products, offer good customer service, and market my shop, until once day I had the realization that somehow over time I had created a legit business!

Tell us about your process (i.e. where you source your materials/inspiration/etc.)

All of my designs are hand-lettered, starting out with pen and paper normally purchased at the local craft supply store. I try not to force inspiration, I definitely think my best concepts happen when I least expect them. This may be mid-conversation with a friend, or as I'm trying to fall asleep at night (I always roll over and type the idea in my phone because I have learned from experience that I will forget by morning!).

What does a typical work-day look like for you?

After making coffee and taking care of my pup I get straight to work on orders from my online shop. The amount varies from season to season but I generally do as much as I can before heading to my work out class in the afternoon. A girl can only do so much sitting at a computer and I can see a lot of improvements to my general health since making time to break for exercise. After a quick run to the post office to drop off orders I head back to work. This could be processing more orders, managing wholesale accounts, designing new products, etc! I really enjoy the ever-changing work day. 

What are the pros and cons of the workspace you occupy currently?

I work out of a bedroom in our house so there are definitely both pros and cons to that. It's rather small, my stock is outgrowing the space and taking over the garage. I also am not able to easily escape the distractions that come with working from home (dirty dishes, needy dog, loud neighbors). At the same time, it's a pleasure to work in comfy clothes and have the freedom to work wherever and whenever I please.

What is your all time favorite card/series of cards?

I would have to say my favorite card is the Pregnancy "shit just got real" card. It is a top seller and I just love seeing people's reactions to it at craft shows.

Coffee, tea or neither?

I like both. I tend to start my days with a cup of coffee and end them with a cup of peppermint tea.

What do you like to do on your days off?

I tend to spend my weekends outside with my husband and our dog. Sometimes we'll take a bike ride to the local nature trails, or head to the beach for a day by the water. There's also something to be said for just doing nothing! We have enjoyed many afternoons just sitting in our yard, relaxing.

What do you love most about the city you live in (also, some favorite spots to check out)?

I live in Costa Mesa, CA. Having grown up in Michigan, it's easy to say I looooove the weather! A few of my local favorites are Sidecar Donuts (for donuts!), Taco Mesa (for tacos!) and Pie Society (for crafted cocktails).

What’s next for Julie Ann Art?

I just recently launched my own e-commerce website after selling on Etsy for seven years. I really love Etsy, but I'm looking forward to have complete control over my business and its products. By having my own site, there are no rules that can possibly hold me back so I'm excited to explore new possibilities! 

Thanks Julie!

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