my 14 day shop

The past month has been a complete whirlwind. I started researching vendor markets a few months ago, and there were a couple I decided to apply for—one in Mebane and one in Cary. I was put on the waitlist for both, but after sending in information about what I make and sell to the Painted Tree Boutique in Cary, I was accepted almost immediately. What a joy (and honor!) to basically skip the waitlist.

I started making a mood board and gathering pieces for my shop—both for function and for beauty.

I found a purple rug and paired it with green walls, which reminded me and upgraded color palette from my teenage bedroom which involved sponge painting (cringe). I figured out how to display placemats and napkins on an angled shelf… and then I built it.

Thankfully, I had already ordered a lot of linen, but I also brought in a few complementary items to create thoughtful bundles—like a teapot, tea infuser, loose leaf tea, and one of my tea towels. I also ordered a new collection of vegan leather bags and a few more scarves for the shop.

It was fun, challenging, and exciting all at once. I officially got my space on April 1 and was painting and setting up that same day. I was moved in and selling by the next day.

During that time—gathering materials, planning, building—I kept telling friends that it felt like I was completing a thesis, pulling together all different parts of my life. Everything from working at Pier 1 Imports and Morgan Imports, to building things by hand, to graphic design, marketing, signage, and inventory.

All of that dreaming, building, hard work, and joy came to an abrupt halt on April 14.

Painted Tree filed for bankruptcy, and I had to quickly gather my things and leave.

I lost my deposit, my time, and will likely never be paid for the items that sold.

I found myself wondering… is this what finishing a thesis feels like with the abrupt end to all of the time and energy? All that’s left is walking across the stage and for me all that is left is a room full of stuff?

At least I’ve had the experience. I now know I can do this.

Right now, it all feels a bit like a tornado (and honestly, my studio looks like one too). The emotions have been swirling, and everything—both physically and emotionally—has landed scattered.

I feel proud of what I created in such a short amount of time, but also a little heartbroken that I didn’t get to share it with you while it was open.

I've updated my website with most of what is in the shop! There are still a few more things to add.

Thank you for your support!