Today we’d like to introduce you to Shari.
Hi Shari, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Kansas City then went to college for Art Direction and Graphic Design in Detroit, MI. My husband and I moved to Catawba Island, Ohio 20 years ago. I worked for various advertising agencies and other companies over the years, as well as freelanced on the side. For the past 10 years I have solely been a freelance graphic designer. I have always been creative and I enjoy making homemade goodies for my family and friends, whether it’s baked goods, meals or handcrafted items. It’s fun to use my creativity in different outlets.
I started making sugar scrubs and body butters to give as gifts over the holidays, along with granola. Over time, friends started asking if they could buy these items for themselves or to give as gifts. Back then, I only made one type of body butter and sugar scrub. Now I currently make and sell 5 different scents along with body oils to match each one. I plan on introducing a new scent soon! My granola has become very popular as well, and I am making more batches than ever before.
Several years ago, a friend of mine came over and she was wearing some really cute earrings. I asked her where she got them, and she said her friend made them. And I thought to myself, if her friend can make them, so can I! So I started playing around with making earrings. Today I make and sell a large variety of earrings, both studs and dangles, all shapes and sizes. And that’s how my boutique business started, with selling all of these handcrafted items.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
There’s always a learning curve when trying new things. And especially when you have two businesses with separate focuses. I have been very fortunate over the years and my clients and customers have been amazing and patient. It can be very hectic when both businesses are busy. Add in a family with two children, there isn’t much down time. Learning how to balance and juggle everything has been an ongoing focus.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As I mentioned previously, I went to college specifically to become an Art Director/Graphic Designer. I specialize in all things print related. Ads, menus, postcards, indoor and outdoor signage, identity packages (logos, letterhead, business cards), invitations, vehicle decal designs, etc. Pretty much anything that can be printed, I can design. I also design materials for social media, like ads, banners, etc.
My other specialty is my boutique business. I’m constantly trying to introduce new goodies – whether it’s new earrings or new spa products. It all takes a lot of time as I make everything personally, and everything is made in small batches.
I am very focused and organized and work pretty quickly. I don’t rush, but I get things done in a very timely fashion. I am professional and always try to exceed my client’s and customer’s expectations. I like to ask a lot of questions to make sure I understand what my client is looking for.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I love hearing what customers think and what they want. I am open to suggestions on what they would like to see. For years I only made dangle earrings. But I kept hearing people talk about wanting stud earrings or earrings for younger children. I always try to meet the desires of my clients.
Pricing:
- Spa Products range from $8-$38
- Earrings range from $15-$25
- Granola is $17 per bag
- Graphic Design Services – I provide quotes upon request
Contact Info:
- Website: https://shariraedesignboutique.com/
- Instagram: @shariraedesignboutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shariraedesignboutique
