Today we’d like to introduce you to Hilary Hilario
Hi Hilary, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
In 2008, I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Print Making from the Ohio State University. After graduation, the job market was tough, and I ended up working outside of the arts. For a while, I worked on print making projects at home here and there. But over time, it became less feasible and I began to look for new creative outlets. In 2018, while organizing my art supplies, I came across a box of my grandmother’s old leather crafting tools. I had no exposure to leather crafting at that point, and had no idea what the tools were meant for. I was intrigued and started researching and watching how-to videos on YouTube. This was the beginning of my love for leather craft. My first project was a simple wallet for my husband. Soon I started to make gifts for friends and family. After some time, I started to get requests from friends and family to make different items, and I loved the challenge of figuring out how to create something I had never made before. This led me to hone my craft and learn the skills necessary to making the bags and accessories I make today.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have been plenty of ups and downs along the way. I have received huge custom orders that stretched me to my limit and I have had slow times where I can’t figure out how to get enough business. One of the biggest challenges has been navigating where to market my products. Through these ups and downs, I have been thankful for all of the lessons learned. These lessons have challenged me to grow and have taught me a lot both professionally and personally.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a leather crafter. I make wallets, travel accessories, journals, and men’s and women’s bags. I’m passionate about using the highest quality leathers for all of my products. My designs bring together functionality, minimalism and unique textures and colors. Each of my products are hand crafted solely by me.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I have found Mike Michalowicz’s books to be very helpful for running a small business. I have been especially impacted by his books Profit First and Get Different: Marketing That Can’t Be Ignored. In general, I have also found it very helpful to read a lot of fiction to encourage creativity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kelsocoleather.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kelsocoleather
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/kelsocoleather
Image Credits
Stephanie Lehnert
