What inspired you to start your business/brand?

When I was in grad school far away from home in the Pacific Northwest of the United States I was missing my favorite Chicago food - bagels, so I started painting them as a joke to ease my homesickness. My friends would come up to me look at the paintings and say “OMG that’s so you! Can you paint something that’s so me?”  Of course I obliged - painting all sorts of icons and foods, plants, clothing and animals and gave them out as gifts.  The images slowly made their way onto greeting cards and Drawn Goods was born!

 

What are your brand’s values?

Drawn Goods is all about spreading silliness and joy. We are a women-owned business valuing inclusivity and well made products that last.

 

What is your biggest motivation?

My biggest motivation is the laughter I get when someone relates to a product I’ve made. It brings me so much joy to see someone engage so positively with my work that I want to keep creating and do it all over again.

 

Where did the inspiration for your product(s) come from?

 Inspiration comes from all over! I just want everyone to be able to find something at Drawn Goods and shout “OMG that’s so me!” I want people to feel seen by my work and see themselves reflected in the work in a funny, silly way.

What has been a highlight whilst creating and building your brand?

The best highlight by far whilst building my brand is the people I have met along the way. The support and camaraderie has been so important to me both socially and professionally.

 

What advice would you give to business owners, creators, designers and brand owners just starting out?

The best advice I can give is “fail fast”.  Having an iterative practice is so valuable. The best way to learn is to jump in and make good mistakes. Introduce yourself, ask questions, be respectful but don’t be afraid of taking up space.

 

At the Spring/Summer edition of Top Drawer, will you be launching any new collections and if so, can you give us a sneak peek?

I will be showcasing new designs in all of my categories including Greeting Cards, Gift Bags, Keychains and Christmas Ornaments.

 

What is your personal favourite from your new collection?

My absolute favourite new items are my shaker ornaments and keychains. They have fun objects INSIDE like illustrated pills or glitter. I am so excited for everyone to see and play with them!

 

How do you operate your brand sustainably?

I do my best to keep knowledgeable on material practices involved in my products. For instance the questions I ask are “Is the paper FSC certified? Can we use fully recycled acrylic? Are the plastic sleeves compostable? Will this product be reusable or is it a single-use item?”

 

Visit them at Top Drawer at stand B29.