I hope you all had a great and refreshing weekend. I know I did partying, shopping, and napping.
This Monday I bring you Kelly, owner and founder, of Purple Lemon. She is a sweet southern girl {one after my own heart} who is genuine and a true delight to get to know. Hope you enjoy getting to know her as much as I did.
Hi Kelly! Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am a Southern girl that loves warm weather and creating anything from unique rubber stamps to a wonderful dinner to a beautiful floral arrangement. I love working with my hands. I have a wonderful hubby that I love to spend time with. I currently work as the Art Director for Hancock Fabrics. I also own Purple Lemon Designs, a company specializing in custom rubber stamps and custom printable stationery.
How did you get started?
Wow…Good question. I had just finished my master’s degree in educational technology, and I was working as an advisor/event planner at Mississippi State University. I had lots of students that I supervised, but none were graphic designers. I had dabbled in graphic design programs for websites, so I just taught myself print graphic programs. As I took new jobs in advertising I got the opportunity to learn more and more about print design.
Sweet Birdie Stamp
Where did the name originate from?
I get that question a lot. I was just thinking of starting my business and I wanted a name that would really stick out in the online world. I was sitting in my in-laws house and there was some fruit sitting on the counter. Then I just started putting fruits and colors together (then of course checking to see if the domain name was available), and Bam! Purple Lemon Designs was born.
What is a typical work day for you?
Like I said earlier, I have a “real” job. So, I get up at 5am and check my email. I then jump on the treadmill and exercise for about 1 hour, then come back to the computer. For about 20 – 30 minutes I do a PLD-related task such as listing a new item or creating a proof for a client. Then I jump into the shower, and am off to work. I usually get home around 6:15pm. I then usually work on orders and answer email and convos for about an hour.
On Saturdays, I am a complete Purple Lemon Designs employee. I write all my blog posts for the week, complete any projects that I am writing tutorials for, work on bookkeeping, new designs etc. I usually work around 8-10 hours on Saturdays. Sundays I do a little work for PLD, but I try to rest and spend time with the hubby.
What are your best selling designs?
My best selling designs on Etsy are definitely the Round Customized Address Stamp and the Triple Monogram Wedding Stamp. I also do a lot of custom stationery. Note cards are very popular off-line.
Round Monogram Stamp
Do you have any business advice/keys to success for new businesses?
If you have an Etsy-based business, I would say that the Storque is a great resource; use it. I love the “Quit Your Day Job Series.” Also, time management has been such a big part of me starting a business. I HAD to learn to streamline everything, because I already work 45-50 hours a week. Figuring out a packaging assembly-line system was key for me. Packaging on Etsy is such a big deal, so I wanted it to be great but at the same time efficient. So, I put lots of time working out the best system for me.
What is your muse/inspiration?
Nature…I find so many wonderful shapes and lines all brought forth by God’s hand.
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as funky, colorful and eclectic…And maybe a bit quirky!
What is your favorite hobby?
I have lots of hobbies I love…Canoeing and camping with my husband is one of my favs. I love to read when I have the time. I also have a sick obsession with watching old episodes of the “Gilmore Girls”; I have every season on DVD!
Do you have favorite blogs/websites?
I have a million, but my top 5 favs are:
Nesting Place The Nester has a great community, and great home decorating ideas.
Jasmine Star Photography Jasmine is an unbelievable photographer; I get tons of inspiration from her. She is also hilarious.
Inchmark Brooke Reynolds has a wonderful Martha-like eye for design and color…Might be because she used to work for The Martha!
One Pretty Thing Is there anyone that doesn’t read Rachel’s blog? She is my go-to for new craft projects.
A Soft Place to Land Kimba is such a dear and I love all of her advice on creating A Soft Place to Land for my family.
Thank you so much Kelly for taking time out of your super busy schedule! And those looking for housewarming gifts, personalized stamps are perfect!
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Thanks so much for the great feature, Bridgett! I appreciate you so much. You are a gem.
I recognize the Black Apple print on the studio wall! Kelly’s got great style–thanks for introducing me to a fabulous new designer!
Hi, cool post. I have been wondering about this topic,so thanks for writing.
Great designs and love the name Purple Lemons. Nature is usually the greatest inspiration for creativity. Keep up the great work.
Some good information in your post. Thanks for the pleasant read!