Today we’d like to introduce you to Blake Highsmith.
Hi Blake, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
As cheesy as it may sound, none of this would have been possible without my friends and family. In 2016, I met a boy online and became fast friends. In 2018, I met him and fell absolutely and totally in love with him. In 2020, we officially became a couple. We were long distance and trying to decide what the next step was. So, I moved from my tiny little hometown, Statesboro, GA. Fast forward 3.5 years; now, I have a small business in Orlando. I have a fantastic friend (her name is Rebecca). I have an amazing day job as a cook. I have fantastic future in-laws. It’s all because of Ryan and whatever it was in the universe that decided we should be together. I own and operate Vintage Cottage Workshop (previously Bloomin’ Shrooms; we just rebranded). It started as doodles in a book; now it’s an actual shop!
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I would love to say it’s been smooth sailing. The reality is that life is like a rollercoaster. Up and down, and you might throw up. Hell, you might have the best time of your life. Who knows? A single mother raised my sister and me. Our biological father was out of the picture due to reasons I don’t wish to mention here. We only really managed to stay put for a short time. I know we struggled financially, but my mom did pretty well at keeping us sheltered from that until we were adults. I experienced a lot of heartbreak before Ryan. Whether it was parental issues, being cheated on, losing people, etc. As far as the business goes, the most challenging part has been realizing you will only make something some days. Some days, you’ll work so hard and barely break even. Seeing pieces you worked so hard on and were thrilled about going untouched is difficult. I make handmade necklaces, earrings, keychains, bags, and resin pieces. Recently, I released herbal grinders and storage jars. I loved them so much, but there wasn’t only a slight interest in them at my last market. And that’s okay! Someone will love them someday.
I appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My favorite question! I started making necklaces and earrings first. It was a learning curve then; I started leaning into AB resin and UV resin, using resin to make keychains and various charms (my favorite being a pair of dripping heart earrings). I tried rings, but I must get them out just right. I also designed canvas bags. I hand-design the bags with ink and use a fabric sealant to hold the design in place. The bags came in crossbody style, tote, and travel bags. Eventually, we also added stash jars, beaded bracelets, and herb grinders, and we have a lot coming! What sets me apart is the level of support I have. Rebecca and Ryan have spent hours crafting and traveling as far as a state away to help me with my events. Ryan’s parents invited most of his family to my first event, and they showed up to support it. My sister and mom helped with the most significant event in my hometown earlier this year. I’m so proud of my village and honestly couldn’t be happier. They’re my family.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I define success as a feeling. To me, It’s not numbers or sales. What would I do if I sold 100 units of something I purchased wholesale online? I didn’t make anything I’m passionate about. I didn’t sell anything that I put my heart in. I just unpacked something, relabeled it, and slapped it on my website. I feel successful when someone buys something I took the time to make. I feel successful when someone loves a piece of jewelry that I poured time and energy into.
Pricing:
- I take all cards and shop pay on my website (vcworkshop.myshopify.com)
- You can also purchase products on IG with Cashapp or Venmo (@vintagecottageshop)
Contact Info:
- Website: Vcworkshop.myshopify.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vintagecottageshop?igshid=ZGNjOWZkYTE3MQ==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550487884310&mibextid=ZbWKwL
Image Credits
Professional photos taken by: Terry Clancy Instagram: @photoloveofit
