Custom Embroidery and Ornaments - Seraph Custom Creations

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and crafts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alyssa James, owner of Seraph Custom Creations, located in Ottawa, ON, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

My business is called Seraph Custom Creations, after my daughter, Seraph. She inspires me in many ways - one of the first products I advertised were baby bibs - and I used the photo of the completed bib that I had brought with me to her appointments and the delivery room to finish (how did I even think I'd have the time to focus on that? Ha)

Since then, I've branched out to other custom embroidered items, including canvas shoes, baby bodysuits, adult and children's shirts, jeans, bags, and even quilted ornaments. We will soon have wedding packages, as well. There's a little bit of embroidery for every unique need!

Tell us about yourself

I started cross-stitching at the tender age of 12. Ironically, the crafts teacher who introduced it to me was not the one who actually taught me. I saw her do it in class, tried it a couple of times, and gave right up. It was WAY too confusing. I went home; I was trying to explain my new nemesis to grandma, and what do you know? She had a book or two about it and knew how to do it! Being the patient and awesome grandma she is, she was actually able to get me trying again, and voila! I did it! Turned out into a beautiful cover for a pillow I put birth stats on for my newborn cousin.

Years later, my husband goes, "you should make this a business!" And here we are. Of course, I had to name it after my newborn daughter, who had inspired my latest piece and who's my muse. She is the one who motivates me to work hours on end to help deliver happiness in every customer's Seraph Custom Package. She's now two years old and even helps me push the pins into the ornaments!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

It's hard to pinpoint my "biggest" accomplishment. Every day that I wake up and try something new, I learn a new skill - I'm better than the day before. That is what I aspire for. Along the way, I have signed up for and was successful in my very first in-person market with Ottawa Artisans over Christmas 2021, and it was a huge success. A little later, in February, I was accepted as a reseller for the world-renowned DMC's products! The bottom line is - every day will have something new. Be it unfortunate, be it something to make you feel like the luckiest person in the world. It will lead you down the path you need to take. And I can't wait to see what's in store!

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Honestly, I think that being a business owner is one of the most challenging things that one can do. You have to learn SEO, photograph your items, think of witty descriptions to give readers a laugh - but remember, you need to make the actual item first. Whew! Not to mention being active on social media, so your followers don't think you won the lottery and ran off into the sunset. (totally down for that, btw. But I'd come back after a three-week hiatus, I promise).

But to sum it all up - I think the hardest thing is that there aren't more than 24 hours in one day. The long days and nights are definitely a challenge.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Have a plan. You'll be running around like a headless chicken if you do not, and that will cost you - time and money.
It's been proven that businesses don't turn into successful ventures overnight. There will be trial and error, trial and total failure. Do not give up. Believe in yourself! If you can dream it, you can achieve it.
You need support. Someone on your team is always great to have, but not everyone has that luxury. Support can mean anyone who does not necessarily share your responsibilities, too. Your best friend, mom, or just someone who really enjoys your work. As Bruno Mars said, they'll come in handy when you don't feel like doing anything. Personal cheerleaders are the best!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/SeraphCustomCreation
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SeraphCreation
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seraphcreation/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.