Daily Inspiration: Meet Laura Krupp

Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Krupp.

Hi Laura, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve always had a thing for making stuff—give me wood, paint, and an idea, and I’ll happily disappear into my workshop for hours. What started as little décor projects for my own home (and the occasional “can you make me one too?” from friends) slowly snowballed. People weren’t just liking what I made—they wanted more. That’s when I realized this hobby of mine might actually have legs.

The big shift came when I got my first laser cutter. Pairing that precision with my hand-painting let me bring to life designs that were whimsical, rustic, and sometimes just a little bit unhinged—in the best way. I had no idea what I was doing half the time, but trial and error (and lots of coffee) turned into learning curves that pushed me forward.

Running a handmade business means wearing all the hats—artist, photographer, marketer, packer, customer service rep—and some days it feels like I’m running a tiny circus out of my living room. But honestly, I love it. The best part is seeing my pieces out in the world, whether that’s on a customer’s mantel, gifted to a loved one, or part of someone’s holiday tradition. Those moments remind me why I keep creating, even on the messy days.

Now, L. Krupp Kreations is more than just my little side project—it’s a brand that reflects my personality, my sense of humor, and my love for all things handmade. I get to share pieces that bring people joy, spark conversations, and make homes feel a little more magical. And really, that’s all I’ve ever wanted this to be about.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Smooth road? Not even close. Just as my business was starting to take off, I had a massive stroke. Recovering from that was no small feat, and it forced me to pause everything I had been building. About a year later, when I was finally starting to work again, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Those weren’t just bumps in the road—they were full-on detours I never saw coming.

Getting through that season wasn’t easy, but it changed how I look at life and my business. My philosophy really comes down to two things: one, always find the funny instead of crying over it; and two, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. And honestly, I couldn’t have gotten through any of it without my husband. He was the one holding everything together when I couldn’t—supporting me, keeping the kids and house running, and still encouraging me to keep chasing this crazy dream.

Then there are the everyday struggles. Running a handmade business means I’m the artist, photographer, marketer, packer, and customer service department all rolled into one. Add in raising three kids and four dogs (with my bulldog Louie as the self-proclaimed boss), and some days feel like I’m running a circus. Things break, orders pile up, boxes never seem to fit, and the to-do list is endless.

But honestly, those challenges—big and small—are what make the wins sweeter. Every obstacle has pushed me to grow, whether that’s improving how I package fragile items, figuring out how to market on a budget, or finding creative ways to balance work, life, and family. It hasn’t been easy, but with a mix of humor, resilience, and a solid support system, it’s absolutely been worth it.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At L. Krupp Kreations, I create laser-cut and hand-painted wooden décor, from chunky shelf sitters to whimsical ornaments. Every piece starts as an idea, then gets cut from wood on my laser, and finally comes to life with paint. It’s a mix of precision and artistry, and I love that each piece feels truly one-of-a-kind.

I specialize in décor that blends rustic charm with a touch of whimsy. My customers often tell me they come back because my work isn’t just pretty—it has personality. I enjoy putting a playful twist on traditional holiday designs, making them feel fresh, fun, and personal. I also take on custom orders, which lets me collaborate directly with customers to bring their unique visions to life—those projects are some of my favorites because they become extra meaningful.

What I’m most proud of is that every item is made by hand, by me. There’s no assembly line or factory behind the scenes—it’s hours of sanding, painting, and detailing until I’d be proud to display it on my own shelf. That handmade care is something I think customers can feel when they open their package.

What sets me apart is the combination of craftsmanship and connection. My work reflects not just the skill that goes into it, but also my personality and the joy I find in creating. I believe that’s why people choose handmade—it’s not just décor, it’s a piece with heart, character, and a story behind it.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
If you take anything away from my story, let it be this: your home deserves more than “meh” décor. Life’s too short not to laugh, to celebrate the seasons, and to fill your shelves with things that make you smile. And if those things happen to be laser-cut and hand-painted by a slightly paint-stained mom with a bulldog sidekick? Even better.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lkruppkreations.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lkruppkreations
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lkruppkreations
• Etsy: www.lkruppkreations.etsy.com