"MEET the ARTISAN" is a blog series that spotlights Etsy New York Team artisans and their craft. In this feature, we learn more about Amberlee, the creator of Amberlee Isabella Home.
Q: What is Amberlee Isabella Home? Can you briefly describe your business for us?
A: Amberlee Isabella Home is a brand of bright and charming home decor and stationery designed and made by me, Amberlee Isabella. I am an interior and graphic designer based in New York City, who uses pattern, typography and color to bring to life inspirational and playful products. My designs aim to be sophisticated and tailored for the apartment in the Upper West Side but casual (and affordable enough) for the studio apartment in Brooklyn.
Q: Some artisans develop their products to meet consumer needs, while others craft products based on things and/or experiences that inspire them. What is the inspiration behind your business?
A: For the past 7 years, I have been fortunate to work for a large commercial design firm focused on retail design. Spending so much time designing retail stores for other amazing brands, I was inspired to share my own vision. The aesthetic of Amberlee Isabella Home is a direct reflection of things, ideas and places that are important in my own life. While all my designs are personal, I have been fortunate to find that the playful and approachable spirit of my designs has resonated with others.
Q: Oftentimes, each artisan has a different strategy and objective for their business. What are the next steps for you and your business?
A: The next steps for my business are to expand my wholesaling outside of New York City. The past year, I participated in many craft fairs and markets which allowed me to meet customers, get feedback and determine my target market. I look forward to using that increased knowledge to help my small business grow.
Q: Can you share with us some of the craft fairs and markets that you've participated in to help move your business forward?
A: The markets in New York City that have taught me the most about my business have been Crafts on Columbus in the Upper West Side, Hester Street Fair in the Lower East Side and the Etsy Handmade Calvacade at Chelsea Market. Each were a very different experience but they all helped me fine tune not only my product design but product display and presentation as well.
Q: As many artisans look to grow and further develop their businesses, do you have some advice that you can share with fellow artisans?
A: The biggest piece of advice I can give to others is to emphasize the importance of a constant and professional looking brand. While you may consider your Etsy business a hobby or part time endeavor it's critical to put your best foot forward in every aspect. As creatives we tend to only want to design and not approach other parts of our business with as much passion. While it can be overwhelming at times it's critically important. I'm a firm believer that presenting yourself and your designs in a professional manner is well worth the investment of funding and time.
Special thanks to Amberlee for sharing with us. You can find her products showcased on her Etsy shop at Amberlee Isabella Home. And, details of her special product GIVEAWAY are below. Please enter for your chance to win!
The giveaway this month is a bestseller from Amberlee Isabella Home!
Enter to WIN HERE!
Entry period ends at 11:59pm on Sunday, March 15, 2015.
An 8x10 'Happy Girls Are the Prettiest!' by Audrey Hepburn print in mint green. This is the perfect print to brighten any office, bedroom or dorm! This print is handmade and printed on 100% cotton paper. Please note, frame is not included.
