Today we’d like to introduce you to Janice Ulanday.
Hi Janice, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As a busy mom with two small boys, a full-time job and a packed scheduled with after school activities and weekend events, where would I find the time to start my own business? After winding down the day, I took the precious time I had to myself while the kids were asleep to do something creative. I’ve always enjoyed fiber arts and have taken sewing classes for a few years but had a desire to learn macrame. The pandemic caused me to become a crazy plant lady since working from home gave me time to take care of them. I bought a macrame book to make a plant hanger and after creating my first piece, I was hooked. I then started making coasters, key chains and wall hangings. I decided to open an online store in 2020 called Knot & Home to showcase my art and sell sustainable home décor supporting other small businesses. I also have pop-ups at makers markets all over LA and Orange County. With the continuous support of my husband, kids, friends and family, I wouldn’t have imagined that I would have this growing business that I poured my love, sweat and tears into something I’m proud of.
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?
Finding the time to create macrame, manage inventory, packing orders, prepping for events and being consistent on social media is a struggle especially with taking care of my family and working full time. In the beginning, getting people to recognize you as a business is hard because you need to find ways to get your name out there. Although I had a website and social media set up, no one really knew about Knot & Home. Participating in pop-up events helped me bring my name out there, meet new customers & vendor friends and learn about my target demographic.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Knot & Home macrame designs is locally handcrafted in La Palma, California by shop founder & owner Janice Ulanday, who always enjoyed working with fiber and textile crafts. She fell in love with macrame the moment she created her first piece and her passion grew into a small business out of her home. We specialize in macrame home décor such as wall hangings, plant hangers and small home goods. Each item is made with lots of care and attention to detail using 100% cotton cords.
Our online store additionally sources products from small businesses around the globe. We take extra care to source local, women-owned, handmade, sustainable and/or eco-friendly items. Each item lists a brand bio and brand values so you know who and how your favorite item was made. We believe in bringing forth quality home décor from artisans who are well crafted in their skills and businesses that are conscious about the world we live in.
What makes you happy?
When my customers share on social media or writes positive reviews about their purchase. It is an honor to have my macrame art in their homes or office.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@knotandhome.com
- Website: http://www.knotandhome.com
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/knotandhome
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/knotandhome
- Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/knotandhome
- Other: http://www.pinterest.com/knotandhome
