Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Decker.
Hi Amanda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Like most artists, 2020 was a tough year. I was suddenly out of work and I was forced to rethink a lot of things. I have always had an entrepreneurial mind and I knew that one day I would want to work for myself. Coming from a theatrical background, I knew I loved creating. I was always an artistic kid and I enjoyed learning new things and taking on new hobbies.
During the Summer of 2020, I decided to make a macrame plant hanger for my mom for Mother’s Day. After many failed attempts, I created an adorable plant hanger and didn’t realize how much fun I would have while making it. I began to make more and it didn’t take long for me to realize I could turn this into a business.
I launched Simpul Boutique in July of 2020 and it has been an absolute blast. Countless hours have been spent making plant hangers, wall decorations, and smaller home decor accessories. I have discovered an incredible online and local community of makers and artists and am overwhelmed by the support of so many fellow business owners. Today, I am maintaining my online shop and getting involved with several local markets, as well as developing a macrame workshop that will be available to my local community very soon. I am very much looking forward to seeing where Simpul Boutique goes from here!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Surprisingly, the road wasn’t as bumpy as I thought it would be. I am thankful to have family and friends who were so helpful to me as I was learning the ins and outs of owning a business. Being a creative person is one thing, but having to deal with the business side of things is a whole other ballgame. As an artist, I just want to create. I remember thinking, “Why do I have to fill out so much paperwork?”
No one teaches you “How to start an arts and crafts business” in college. At least not in my field of study. I had to figure out a lot on my own and at times, that was scary. I had so many questions and even more unknowns that I just had to tackle one at a time.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I focus on creating hand-made macrame goods. There has been a resurgence in macrame and the boho lifestyle in recent years and I knew I wanted to be a part of helping others bring more textiles and variety to their spaces. Aside from the usual macrame plant hangers that you might frequently see, my favorite thing to do is create custom wall pieces for individual clients. It’s like commissioning an art piece. The client gives me measurements, a color palette, and even a photo of where the piece will live. I take those details and create a one-of-a-kind piece that my clients may not be able to find at any retail store.
If I had to choose, I would say I am most proud of my brand. I am no marketing expert, but I have worked very hard to create an online presence that represents simplicity and creativity. I hope to continue developing my brand and inspiring others to turn their spaces into a place they can feel most at home.
What matters most to you? Why?
Time with my family. I think I speak for most people when I say that 2020 completely altered my priorities. I had the opportunity to build this business while my husband and I were stuck at home. All-day. Every day. It was during those few months that I appreciated the time spent with him (and our dogs) that I wanted to continue that even when things went “back to normal.”
Pricing:
- Plant hangers – $25-$35
- Medium Wall Hangings – $40-$100
- Large Custom Wall hangings $250+
- Accessories – $8-$15
Contact Info:
- Email: simpul.boutique@gmail.com
- Website: https://simpulboutique.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simpul_boutique/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simpulboutique
