Over the years, I’ve shared my work at local markets, festivals, and community events, selling both artwork and books while connecting directly with customers. Those experiences taught me a lot about what people are drawn to, what type of art resonates, and how powerful in-person conversations can be.

One challenge kept appearing, though.

People would stop by my booth, browse my artwork, flip through books, ask questions, and take a business card. Sometimes they weren’t ready to make a purchase. Sometimes they wanted to think about it. Sometimes they simply didn’t have room in their budget that day.

I realized I needed a place where those connections could continue after an event ended.

Creating a Home for My Creative Work

That realization led me to build an online shop that brings together both sides of my creative work.

In addition to selling books I’ve been published in, I expanded my artwork into a variety of practical products, including shoes, phone cases, postcards, and more. I wanted people to experience my art in ways that felt accessible, personal, and fun.

Instead of existing as separate projects, my artwork and published writing now live together in one place. Visitors can learn more about my creative background, browse wearable art, and discover my books without jumping between multiple websites.

Beyond the Event Booth

In-person events will always be one of my favorite ways to share my work. There’s something special about meeting people face-to-face, hearing what captures their attention, and having conversations about the creative process.

The online shop doesn’t replace those experiences. It extends them.

Now, when someone meets me at an event, they have a place to revisit later. They can browse my work at their own pace, rediscover a piece they liked, or purchase something when the timing feels right. What was once a single interaction can become an ongoing relationship.

Why I Moved Beyond Etsy

Like many artists and makers, I previously sold through Etsy. It provided a valuable starting point and helped me learn the fundamentals of ecommerce.

As my business evolved, I found myself wanting more ownership over the customer experience. Rather than directing people to a marketplace, I wanted a branded storefront.

By creating my shop directly on my website, I created a more cohesive experience for visitors while retaining more of the revenue from each sale. That means more resources can be reinvested into creating new artwork, developing new products, attending events, and growing my creative business.

Bringing the Store to Social Media

To make shopping even more convenient, I also launched an Instagram Shop with one-click purchasing capabilities.

Many people first discover artists through social media, so connecting my storefront directly to Instagram creates a seamless path from discovery to purchase. Whether someone finds my work at an event, on my website, or through social media, they can easily explore the full collection from wherever they are.

More Than an Online Store

This project was about so much more than selling things.

It was an opportunity to create a central hub for my creative work, connect my online and offline audiences, and build a space that showcases my passions.

What started as a desire to stay connected with customers after events has grown into a digital storefront that supports my work year-round and creates new opportunities for people to discover, engage with, and support the things I create.

Explore the Shop

If you’ve met me at an event, connected with me online, or are simply curious about my work, I’d love for you to take a look around.

Visit the shop to explore my artwork!

xoxo,

Michaela Rae