A Birthday Reflection: 4 Years of CoraCreaCrafts
Today I’m celebrating not only my 32nd birthday but also another year of CoraCreaCrafts—a journey that started 4 years ago and has been filled with creativity, passion, and so much growth. Personal growth, as I have learned new skills and experienced trial and error in developing the business from scratch, but also growth in the company, as the business as evolved from being a one-person home-based venture to being a larger (still small though) company, with a warehouse and multiple employees. This year has proven to be particularly challenging, both for the business and for me personally. We made a big move mid-year, relocating to a new state, and it felt like starting from scratch in many ways. From adjusting how we operate to overcoming hurdles in an difficult economic climate, it hasn’t always been easy. For me, and other small business-owners I’m sure, business and personal just blend into one, and as a result, I have been deeply affected by my business’ struggles on a personal level too.
Being an entrepreneur has its ups and downs, and the reality is, some days it’s really difficult. There have been moments of doubt, exhaustion, and the overwhelming task of keeping a small business afloat. But through all of it, what keeps me going is my passion for creating, and most importantly—you. The support of this incredible community has been my driving force. Whether it’s your supportive messages, excitement about my new releases, comments on social media, sharing how you use the supplies, or simply cheering me on, each of you plays a part in CoraCreaCrafts. You inspire me to continue pushing forward, no matter how tough things get. Your support reminds me why I started this journey, and I am more determined than ever to keep growing and creating for all of you.
But through struggles, also come life-changing moments, and I couldn’t be happier to now call Nashville home. Some of the challenges have turned into the best decisions I’ve ever made for the business. They’ve pushed me to rethink how I organize things, make structural changes, and expand both our product range and creative ideas. Adapting and trying new things has been at the core of this transformation.
I’m also incredibly excited to share that we’ve begun a new partnership with a wonderful store in Korea, marking a huge step in expanding our wholesale presence globally. And this is just the beginning—our goal is to continue growing in this space, bringing CoraCreaCrafts to more people around the world. In addition to wholesale, we’re starting to host and attend more events and conferences, so don’t be surprised if you see us pop up at your next event! Building our presence in this way is something I’m really looking forward to, and I can’t wait to connect with even more of you in person.
Looking back, embarking on this entrepreneurial journey has unquestionably been the most enriching and rewarding choice I’ve ever made. I would encourage all of you who also have such dreams not to be scared to pursue them. Crafting isn’t merely a business endeavor; it’s a passion and an entire way of life for me.
Thank you for being part of this adventure with me. I couldn’t do it without you, and I’m excited to see what the next year will bring!
With gratitude,
Coralie
