Crib Sheet #67: Craftygirl’s Rosalee Marks.

If only undertaking messy projects made you money…right?  It sure does for Rosalee.  Not only does her creative outlet support her family, but her cutecutecute party invitations (that you can check out on her Facebook page) are one-of-a-kind wonderful.

What business did you start up?

Craftygirl.  I create and design handmade party invitations, thank you cards, holiday cards, gift tags, scrapbooks, and party favors.

What motivated you to do it?

Initially it was my boys who motivated me to get back to my creative side!  My friends would see the party invitations I would make the for the kid’s birthday parties and cards for the holidays and they would encourage me continually to do this as a business.  I finally got the guts to do it when a friend of mine asked me to design 75 baby shower invites for her sister-in-law’s shower.  With a lump in my throat and butterflies in my stomach…I said yes.  The rest has been history!

How many children do you have, and how old are they?

I have 2 boys.  Ben is 7 years old and Danny is 3 years old.

How long have you been running your business?

Since September of 2009.

How long did it take you to start becoming profitable and/or successful, however you choose to measure success?

Success seemed to have happened fairly quickly.  I took on a client and received many jobs from her.  From there I received a few more clients through word-of-mouth.  I’m still working hard to keep the success up!

How did your family react to you starting your own business?

My husband has been my biggest cheerleader!  He sees the potential in what I do and where this could go.  He’s even been known to help me on projects.

Easiest part of your job?

It varies from day to day.  Sometimes it’s the shopping for supplies, sometimes it’s coming up with an idea, or physically putting the idea into a card or favor.

Hardest part of your job?

The hardest part of my job might be trying to get work done with my boys around me.  I work out of my home office.  It’s not easy finding quiet time for working.

What skill would you most like to improve?

My organizational skills…creating can be messy!

What tools or advice do you wish you knew then that you know now?

I wish I knew more about free or inexpensive website services when I started.

What is the accomplishment you are most proud of?

Gaining clients through referrals.

Favorite part of a typical day?

Shopping for the supplies I need on a project.

And a few more questions, considering that American Express should be featuring more mom entrepreneurs…

Childhood ambition? To be a nurse or to work in the fashion industry.

Time of day you get the most work done? Mornings.

Favorite book or magazine? Breaking Dawn.

Inspiration? My boys and my surroundings wherever I am.

My life…..is a roller coaster, but that’s what makes it fun!