Today we’d like to introduce you to Caitlin Plourde.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story started during my first maternity leave in early 2023. I had just become a new mom and was looking for something creative and fulfilling that could fit into my life at home with a baby. I launched Simply Plourde as a small Etsy shop selling digital prints, but I quickly realized I needed something more hands-on. That’s when I picked up beads for the first time, and I haven’t stopped since.
What started with keychains slowly grew into badge reels, bookmarks, lanyards, pens, and more. Every item is handmade by me, and the inventory is always changing depending on what charms I can find and what I feel inspired to create. What started as a little side hobby turned into a full-time business that I pour so much of myself into.
Since then, I’ve grown to stock shops throughout Brevard County and even one out in Colorado. I also manage social media for other small businesses and host pop-up events that bring people together. I’ve done all of this with two little ones at my feet. We just welcomed our second baby in late February, and I returned from maternity leave in mid-May. Life is busy, but I’m so proud of what we’re building.
Simply Plourde is truly a family business. I handle the creative side, all of the making, packaging, customer communication, events, and social media. My husband handles the finances and backend support. We work a lot of events together and usually show up as a full family with our two kids in tow.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve faced a lot behind the scenes while building this business. I’m currently navigating Topical Steroid Withdrawal, which has affected me in such a big way. My skin can feel tight, dry, and leathery, and other times it’s red, raw, and inflamed. It’s painful and unpredictable, and it makes everyday things more difficult. There are days when it’s hard to even want to show up at events because of how uncomfortable I feel.
I’ve also experienced postpartum mental health struggles with both of my kids. After my first, I went through postpartum depression, and after my second, I’ve been dealing with postpartum anxiety. It’s made the balance between motherhood and business more challenging, especially in those early months. There have been times where I’ve had to give myself extra grace and slow down, even when my to-do list was full.
But I’m still here. I’m still creating, still showing up, and still finding purpose in what I do. This business gives me something that’s mine and reminds me why I started in the first place.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Simply Plourde ?
We specialize in handmade beaded accessories for both kids and adults. It is not just keychains and pens. We also offer bookmarks, lanyards, badge reels, wine stoppers, corkscrews, bottle openers, and our newest obsession… Park Ear Clips for Disney lovers who want a cute and easy way to carry their ears hands-free at the parks. Every item is handmade by me, and our inventory is always changing depending on what charms and beads I can get my hands on.
What sets Simply Plourde apart is how personal it feels. We are not just slapping beads on string. Everything is created with intention, from themed collections to custom gift pieces. I love making things that spark a little joy, whether it is a fun teacher lanyard, a spooky Halloween drop, or a sweet charm for a diaper bag.
One thing we are known for is our interactive Bead Bar, which lets you design your own piece at markets and events. We also offer DIY kits that are perfect for birthday parties, holidays, or just crafting at home. It is such a fun way for kids and adults to get creative and walk away with something they made themselves.
What makes me most proud is the connection behind it all. People come find us at markets because they follow online or have heard about the Bead Bar. They come back with friends, bring their kids to build something special, or message me when they want something custom. I love that we are known for the feeling people get when they shop with us. It is handmade, but it is also heart made.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I think one of the biggest qualities that has helped me succeed is showing up with consistency and heart, even when things feel messy. I’m an empath by nature, so I feel things deeply and genuinely care about the people I create for. That comes through in everything I do — from the way I package an order to how I connect with customers at events or through a simple message online.
I don’t just want someone to buy something and move on. I want them to feel seen, celebrated, and thought of. Whether it’s a mom grabbing a charm for her diaper bag, a teacher building their own pen, or a kid lighting up at the Bead Bar, I try to make every interaction feel special.
It is not about being perfect. It is about being present, kind, and intentional. Some days are harder than others, especially juggling motherhood, postpartum recovery, and dealing with TSW. But I keep showing up, and I truly believe that kind of heart-centered consistency is what sets Simply Plourde apart and keeps people coming back.
Pricing:
- Tumbler Cables: $6.50
- Wine Stoppers: $10.00
- Park Ear Clips: $9.50
- Lanyards: $9.25
- DIY Products: Prices Vary
Contact Info:
- Website: https://simplyplourdeco.square.site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyplourdeco?igsh=MTN0dTA0NHZ0aWxrdQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZzGWBxGKf/?mibextid=wwXIfr
