My name is Leah Farquharson {pronounced fark-eh-son. I get asked that a lot!} To put it plain and simply – I’m blessed to be a wife. And a mom. I’m a little bit nerdy. And a little bit artsy. And a lot about striving to live my/our life to the fullest. This is where I share my creativity, because I believe in living an inspired life – and making it beautiful.
I’m a modern girl living in the city. I grew up in the Midwest surrounded by women who knew how to sew, quilt and create arts and crafts. I’ve always had a profound respect for women who use their joy of creating to build a business that helps support their family and fulfills their dreams. So, in December of 2010, after much reading and research, I filed the documents to create my own business. I took a step of faith. That I would be able to do it. I pushed down my fears of potential failure and gave myself permission to succeed.
It took me time to set things up, but seven months later, I listed my first item in my online shop on Etsy. I made rings. Unique and pretty. But they didn’t sell well. I was happy because I had tried and created something that I felt was an expression of myself. Modern with a vintage influence.
It wasn’t until I was able to create my first camera strap cover and share it with friends that things really started to take off for me! I created my very first samples the summer of 2011 and slowly started to list a few in the shop. I made them with fabrics that I had on hand so that I wouldn’t have to invest much. My first purchases were from friends who loved my ideas and supported me. Without them, I would have never had those first sales and I’m so very, very grateful! With the money from those first sales, I bought more supplies and continued to invest in my business.
Fast forward to May 2012. I undertook a shop restyle – I had developed a clear idea of what I wanted for my brand and my company. With that restyle came a purpose and drive – I had decided to push from the place of “hobby” to “serious business”. Since that day, when I pulled everything together, my shop activity, exposure and sales have grown exponentially. I can’t stress the importance of branding your business enough.
Today things continue to grow and evolve. I’m constantly pushing to the horizon – adding new products, continuing to design new things, and getting the word out about my company. Always with the intention of staying true to my style of modern with vintage soul.
My goal as I begin to outsource is to follow a business model that would allow me to contract work to skilled sewists, opening up opportunities for full time caregivers who might otherwise have difficulty working outside the home to earn a bit of extra income.
I am blessed. Life is a journey. Travel it with no regrets.