Quit Your Day Job: happyfamily

Lori and Starbuck, the mom and pop behind happyfamily, decided to take the plunge into selling on Etsy full time after a school of dolphins made quite a fuss one day on the beach while the couple was talking about Etsy. With much success, Lori and Starbuck have been able to successfully band together to quit their previous day jobs in graphic design and engineering in order to support themselves and their two children through their Etsy sales. They both agree being their own boss, spending the day together with their children, and having the freedom to take each day one at a time were worth the jump; however, they advise others who are considering the same decision to be mindful that organization and helping hands are key.

How did you originally get into the business of making things?
Before we were happyfamily, Lori was slinging pixels as a graphic designer in London while Starbuck worked as an engineer in Paris. We soon returned to the U.S., got hitched in Vegas, and suddenly found ourselves really, really bored at work. After taking a community screen printing class, we learned that we could make really cool designs come to life on fabric. We spent many hours designing and printing every scrap of fabric we could get our hands on.

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
No, we didn’t know it was possible. Actually, we think a group of dolphins knew before we did! We were at the beach, talking about Etsy with a friend. Suddenly a school of dolphins started jumping around on the horizon. Our wise friend told us that dolphins are a sign of big changes ahead. In that moment we decided selling our tees online would be our “big change.” Sounds kooky but it’s true!

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
Not really. We’ve owned a retail store in New Orleans for five years and spent many 18-hour days making t-shirts. This taught us how to keep up with customer demand. We are both firm believers that you just can’t prepare for everything in life. We tend to follow our gut instinct in most things we do and somehow everything always works out.

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What’s your best marketing tip?

  • Twitter has been great (@happyfamilyshop, if you would like to be our friend!).
  • Blogs are fantastic exposure as well. All of those mentions add up and you can build your business one happy customer at a time.
  • We also have lots of word of mouth business, especially from people seeing our birthday shirts at birthday parties and wanting one for their child’s birthday.
  • Etsy itself gives us a 24-hour worldwide audience that has taken us in a whole new direction.


What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
We haven’t found much to be unsuccessful. You never know who might see what and when. All promotion is good promotion!

Walk us through your typical workday.

  • As the sun comes up, our alarm clock (a.k.a Owen, our 3-year-old) runs in our room and jumps on the bed. Once his 15-month-old brother Evan hears us, our day officially begins! Breakfast is usually waffles or French toast as we check convos and respond to emails.
  • Then it’s a walk to the playground, building train stations, or maybe just chasing each other in circles around the house. Our boys are perfectly content doing any of these activities 7 days a week.
  • Next comes work for one of us. The actual work can be filling orders, cleaning shop, ordering inventory, making phone calls or just about anything that needs to be done.
  • We have a quick lunch (cheese plate al fresco on the patio is a favorite!), then get the boys ready for an afternoon siesta.
  • Naptime brings several hours of uninterrupted work time for both of us. It’s usually spent printing tees and packaging.
  • After naps we visit the local farmers’ market for dinner supplies.
  • At dinner we all talk about our day. Afterward there’s usually one last adventure before bath time, book time, and bedtime.
  • After tucking in Evan with his glow worm and Owen with his frogs, it is back to work for the rest of this happyfamily. We work, work, and work some more and finally call it a night around 1 or 2 a.m. Our days and nights are very, very long — but very fun too — and we wouldn’t want it any other way.


What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
Being able to make our own hours and hang out with each other and our kids all day is wonderful. We also appreciate that the sky is the limit for what we can do with our business.  We miss employer sponsored health insurance! Private insurance isn’t for the faint at heart and it’s something you should plan for before you quit your day job.

What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
Parenting and working at the same time is a tough combination. We are a true mom and pop shop.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
Organization is very important. You need proper accounting and good records of everything you sell. Advice for someone else — if anyone offers to help, take it. At first we tried to do everything ourselves but learned quickly that a little help can go a long way in making more time for your business.

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
We are working on redoing our business website and starting a blog. We want to pay it forward (and backward) by featuring others who make and sell their own products, as well as keep better track of our own lives for our kids to look back on one day.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” — Ghandi

Thanks to Lori and Starbuck for sharing their story.  Have your own questions to ask? Come on by and chat with them on Wednesday, August 26 at 7 p.m. ET in Etsy’s Virtual Labs

You can see some of happyfamily‘s beautiful work in the Related Items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.

  • stitchknitsew

    stitchknitsew says:

    Great article and very cool shop.

    2 years ago

  • nestings

    nestings says:

    What an inspiring story- thank you!

    2 years ago

  • LuLusWoobies

    LuLusWoobies says:

    Inspiring success story! Very hard to read the article with those adorable kids everywhere :)

    2 years ago

  • FrillyButts

    FrillyButts says:

    Great work guys! You have beautiful children!

    2 years ago

  • MyNaturesArt

    MyNaturesArt says:

    Good on you folks! My own dream of being a quit your day job feature will come soon!

    2 years ago

  • jodieflowers

    jodieflowers says:

    Awesome! I love happyfamily! xxxoooxxx

    2 years ago

  • Krystyna81

    Krystyna81 says:

    wonderful...how nice to see a family that gets to enjoy their time together! Best of luck to you always :) (beautiful children!)

    2 years ago

  • mireillemanuel

    mireillemanuel says:

    nice story! really cute children!

    2 years ago

  • Krystyna81

    Krystyna81 says:

    OMG - just saw your shirt on Sheldon - my fav TV character of all time...and you are my neighbor! Hello from woodstock, GA!

    2 years ago

  • LuminousDreamDesigns

    LuminousDreamDesigns says:

    lol I agree LuLusWoobies. Great article!

    2 years ago

  • BeauAndStella

    BeauAndStella says:

    Its the metro3 people! I used to live in New Orleans and LOVE that shop! It was my go-to for any gifts I needed for out-of-towners. Love it! Congrats on your success!

    2 years ago

  • Artulia

    Artulia says:

    lovely prints & truly inspirational Etsy story- thanks for sharing!

    2 years ago

  • gloilocksandbody

    gloilocksandbody says:

    Oh my goodness! What an adorable family! Wonderful story too, I love reading these :D

    2 years ago

  • foamywader

    foamywader says:

    Congrats!

    2 years ago

  • EJPcreations

    EJPcreations says:

    Such a sweet story! Congrats on your sucess!

    2 years ago

  • MeghanT

    MeghanT says:

    Gorgeous work guys, and a wonderful story! I think it's awesome that dolphins were the catalyst for your big life change. How awesome! I'm going to look out for signs now when I'm ready for things to shift. We were on a boat in the Caribbean 2 years ago and we had a whole bunch of dolphins (although they called them something else) following us and leaping infront of the boat. It was awe inspiring. Maybe they were trying to deliver a message to someone on board! I'll never watch dolphins without thinking about your story and wondering what the future is about to bring. Congrats - and here's to continued success on etsy!

    2 years ago

  • ElfiePins

    ElfiePins says:

    toooo cute! I love your stuff!

    2 years ago

  • GreenTease

    GreenTease says:

    Great story. Gives me hope that I can do it to!!!

    2 years ago

  • jessiemccann

    jessiemccann says:

    Congrats!

    2 years ago

  • heidiburton

    heidiburton says:

    Fantastic, a lovely family and business! Well done!

    2 years ago

  • lovelygifts

    lovelygifts says:

    Great article! Congrats!

    2 years ago

  • NanLawson

    NanLawson says:

    yay! another inspiring story!

    2 years ago

  • sherrytruitt

    sherrytruitt says:

    best of luck with your great shop and lovely family.

    2 years ago

  • spacejam

    spacejam says:

    great article and great family!1 All the best

    2 years ago

  • HarrietsHaven

    HarrietsHaven says:

    I love to see husband and wife teams! Way to go!!!

    2 years ago

  • HarrietsHaven

    HarrietsHaven says:

    BTW, I saw the episode of Big Bang Theory with your t-rex shirt. Awesome, Awesome!!!

    2 years ago

  • hudsonhawke

    hudsonhawke says:

    Congrats! Love the happyfamily - and their shop!

    2 years ago

  • SewnNatural

    SewnNatural says:

    love your stuff, great to know more about you and your business. congrats.

    2 years ago

  • BabbidgePatch

    BabbidgePatch says:

    Contrats to happyfamily! great success and thanks for sharing :)

    2 years ago

  • SusanFaye

    SusanFaye says:

    Best wished for continued success! Nothing like a great product and a lot of determination (and a few dolphin messengers)!

    2 years ago

  • HoneyThistle

    HoneyThistle says:

    wow, congrats on making it work, cute kids too :)

    2 years ago

  • SimpleTraditions

    SimpleTraditions says:

    We have two little boys with the same age difference. Thanks so much for sharing your story, it gives me and my husband hope that we can do it too!

    2 years ago

  • postroadvintage

    postroadvintage says:

    Love these stories and yours was no exception :) Congrats! It's no small feat raising a family AND running a business and I admire anyone who is able to do both!

    2 years ago

  • formandfunktion

    formandfunktion says:

    Very inspiring - thanks for all the great tips! You have a great no-nonsense approach.

    2 years ago

  • odiliafu

    odiliafu says:

    Very inspiring story! Congrats!!

    2 years ago

  • 1AEON

    1AEON says:

    my fellow silk-screeners:)

    2 years ago

  • PipocaHandmade

    PipocaHandmade says:

    Lovely shop and interview!

    2 years ago

  • paramountvintage

    paramountvintage says:

    great advice. i couldn't manage paramount vintage without my business partner (and boyfriend). helping hands are definitely the key to success!

    2 years ago

  • Morado

    Morado says:

    Very inspiring! Best wishes :o) and i must say...such adorable kids http://twitter.com/MoradoShop http://www.facebook.com/pages/Morado/76145617513

    2 years ago

  • Fairyfolk

    Fairyfolk says:

    Very inspirational... I love to see success stories about families following their dreams! Blessings and magic.

    2 years ago

  • NinaReneeDesigns

    NinaReneeDesigns says:

    I love reading about parents juggling work around the kids :-) Congrats!

    2 years ago

  • kleja

    kleja says:

    What a great story and so inspirational. I wish we could all just listen to our instincts like that.

    2 years ago

  • stubborndog

    stubborndog says:

    Very inspiring. Love it all!

    2 years ago

  • MeowBarkArt

    MeowBarkArt says:

    Lovely story!! I'm truly inspired by this interview. Thanks for the reminder that we ALL need to be looking for the 'dolphins' in our lives. Best wishes for your family & your Etsy shop.

    2 years ago

  • MyMoms

    MyMoms says:

    Really lovely... Thanks for sharing!

    2 years ago

  • Nomsa

    Nomsa says:

    What adorable children and such a great shop!!

    2 years ago

  • RAGGEDedgeGear

    RAGGEDedgeGear says:

    my soul smiles :-)

    2 years ago

  • lamixx

    lamixx says:

    congrats great story.

    2 years ago

  • SimpleJoysPaperie

    SimpleJoysPaperie says:

    Great article ~ what adorable kids!

    2 years ago

  • lalala08

    lalala08 says:

    I love them! Go happyfamily!

    2 years ago

  • thebestvintage

    thebestvintage says:

    What a nice story!

    2 years ago

  • KIMMSMITH

    KIMMSMITH says:

    A really great story, thank you!

    2 years ago

  • katsummers

    katsummers says:

    What a great article....so very positive!

    2 years ago

  • artbymags

    artbymags says:

    always loved Metro Three (the shop)... so glad to see y'all are having a successful go of it online on Etsy. still love all your designs! i wish you continued success!

    2 years ago

  • moonovermaize

    moonovermaize says:

    I love it! How wonderful for both of you to be able to be at home with the kids :)

    2 years ago

  • MinceCo

    MinceCo says:

    I love these inspirational stories and I adore the catalyst for starting after the dolphin sighting

    2 years ago

  • edgyapparel

    edgyapparel says:

    Wearing one of your tees as I read this article. Good for you to have sold so many tees. Best of luck.

    2 years ago

  • UglyBaby

    UglyBaby says:

    What an inspiring story -- and how great to be able to spend such quality time with your family. AwwwwwhhhhhH!

    2 years ago

  • clothpaperstitches

    clothpaperstitches says:

    What a cute family! Great story.

    2 years ago

  • thelooseleaf

    thelooseleaf says:

    wonderful, i love heariing this.. its very encouraging!

    2 years ago

  • BlackStar

    BlackStar says:

    here's to continued success!

    2 years ago

  • SweetPeaFabrications

    SweetPeaFabrications says:

    Love the article - nice family business!

    2 years ago

  • accessoryalamode

    accessoryalamode says:

    I really enjoyed reading this article! It is so inspiring. I hear them with the juggle between parenting and business. I am so happy to see their success!

    2 years ago

  • creationsnthings

    creationsnthings says:

    You Rock!! Great job, great story. I use to do screen printing. It's not as easy as someone may think. As for working from home and spending more time with your kids...it will pay you back a thousand fold. Keep up the hard work! And good luck to you!!

    2 years ago

  • signsofmylife

    signsofmylife says:

    awww, i LOVE happyfamily - such a great story & inspiration!

    2 years ago

  • InformalElegance

    InformalElegance says:

    How courageous! I love to hear inspiring success stories. Congrats & keep up the good work!

    2 years ago

  • warmnfuzzies

    warmnfuzzies says:

    What a wonderful story!

    2 years ago

  • AugustEve

    AugustEve says:

    Good for you guys!

    2 years ago

  • cthings

    cthings says:

    Congratulations and what a wonderful family!! Wishing your success keeps escalating!

    2 years ago

  • ThatSomething

    ThatSomething says:

    What an inspiring story, adorable family too!

    2 years ago

  • aprilmist

    aprilmist says:

    wonderful story! The quit your day job series is always so inspirational and these experts offer such good advice from their experiences. Thanks happyfamily for sharing!

    2 years ago

  • birdshaveflowers

    birdshaveflowers says:

    JUST WHAT I NEEDED! Our family is also looking to do this same thing, with a new baby it might be slow going! VERY COOL ITEMS AND VERY INSPIRING STORY !

    2 years ago

  • bananaicecream

    bananaicecream says:

    Great story! This is one of the first shops that I saw on Etsy! Best of luck in the future!

    2 years ago

  • slumptown

    slumptown says:

    Thanks happyfamily for sharing your wonderful story. The quit your day job series is always a good morale booster, thanks.

    2 years ago

  • vivikas

    vivikas says:

    how cool, another very inspirational article!

    2 years ago

  • deetsy

    deetsy says:

    what a wonderful story! i, too, have been making a go of being an artist and staying at home with my kids (now aged 7 and almost 4). it's really hard work, and it's tough to get things done, but i still wouldn't want it any other way. thanks for sharing your success with us!

    2 years ago

  • zoetropa

    zoetropa says:

    Aww, they are so sweet. Congratulations to them and all their success as a happy family. :)

    2 years ago

  • CustomCoffey

    CustomCoffey says:

    Neat to hear about a family who quit their day job!!

    2 years ago

  • whiletangerinedreams

    whiletangerinedreams says:

    So inspiring, and what a cute family! Plus, Starbuck is the coolest name ever!!

    2 years ago

  • ReedmorJewelry

    ReedmorJewelry says:

    Congrats! I am wondering how long did it take from the class to quit your day job?

    2 years ago

  • jbeaudet

    jbeaudet says:

    I wish a pod of dolphins would jump and splash as a sign off my future!

    2 years ago

  • jpulliam30

    jpulliam30 says:

    Your day sounds like mine. I have 2 boys as well. And your shop is awesome!

    2 years ago

  • VintageJamie

    VintageJamie says:

    How cute the kids are! Congrats!

    2 years ago

  • candy4me

    candy4me says:

    Wow... amazing shop!!! I am sort of a newbie and your shop is the biggest I have seen on etsy... Good luck! Caroline

    2 years ago

  • VixVintage

    VixVintage says:

    Very cool shop and such an inspiring story, thanks for sharing.

    2 years ago

  • TheArtOfJoy

    TheArtOfJoy says:

    I'm inspired...now off to convince the husband!

    2 years ago

  • Elizabethxoxo

    Elizabethxoxo says:

    congratulations on quitting your day jobs! Love you shop, and your boys are so cute!

    2 years ago

  • Tumus

    Tumus says:

    Nice story and great tees! Many happy blessings to you!!

    2 years ago

  • TheSeed

    TheSeed says:

    I've got 2 kids and a business at home too (and private insurance!) and I agree that it can be a long day but it's so worth it!

    2 years ago

  • instantcrimson

    instantcrimson says:

    great story... your success brings me much hope for the future of my own little business and family - thank you :)

    2 years ago

  • JBirdHome

    JBirdHome says:

    I love this article- inspiring and helpful. My family wears our happyfamily gear proudly and have given it as gifts as well-- fantastic stuff!

    2 years ago

  • Milkshakebaby

    Milkshakebaby says:

    I have given one of their bags as a gift and plan to give more items! LOVE the store and this story as inspired me!

    2 years ago

  • amber84

    amber84 says:

    woah... what's the deal with the comment above me? It looks like a spammer. ANYHOW In regards to this article... I love their shop - it's been a favorite of mine for a while now. :) Congrats!

    2 years ago

  • pinkytoeclothing

    pinkytoeclothing says:

    love this shop and wonderful article as always!

    2 years ago

  • cozyblue

    cozyblue says:

    great article. happyfamily is living the (my) dream! best of luck, and thanks, etsy for featuring such an inspiring story.

    2 years ago

  • thecluelesscrafter

    thecluelesscrafter says:

    It's so inspiring when a husband and wife team show how meaningful work can be when done together. Etsy, please more stories like this!

    2 years ago

  • zeropumpkin

    zeropumpkin says:

    awww how cool 1 big happyfamily :) adore the shop

    2 years ago

  • Berlinski

    Berlinski says:

    I LOVE this story! What a lovely team! This is definitely a dream of mine so it's nice to see that it is actually possible! Very inspirational!

    2 years ago

  • TuscanBlooms

    TuscanBlooms says:

    This is so cool! I hope my shop takes off like yours did!!! http://www.tuscanblooms.etsy.com and im on twitter too, I think it does help sales... http://www.twitter.com/tuscanblooms KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK HAPPY FAMILY!!!

    2 years ago

  • blueberryshoes

    blueberryshoes says:

    ive always loved the "grow your own food" t shirt ;)

    2 years ago

  • BesemNaturalScents

    BesemNaturalScents says:

    Love, love, love these stories--so inspiring! Enjoy your boys and your business!

    2 years ago

  • Iammie

    Iammie says:

    Lovely family ^^

    2 years ago

  • AmazingBeading

    AmazingBeading says:

    Very inspiring and cute kids!

    2 years ago

  • FluteTeacher

    FluteTeacher says:

    Thanks for sharing your story.

    2 years ago

  • BrazanDesign

    BrazanDesign says:

    I love my GROW YOUR OWN FOOD shirt! Good wishes are headed your way!

    2 years ago

  • sarahderagon

    sarahderagon says:

    i dream of this one day for myself - minus the kids.

    2 years ago

  • HoneyBoo

    HoneyBoo says:

    Great article, very inspiring!

    2 years ago

  • PookieLovesOlives

    PookieLovesOlives says:

    Great story and Love your work!!

    2 years ago

  • wearthou

    wearthou says:

    Nice article!! Very inspiring!! What's with the big chunk of comment above???

    2 years ago

  • SHOWNPRIDE

    SHOWNPRIDE says:

    I love hearing how well others are doing, very nice story. Positive!!!!!

    2 years ago

  • QuiteContrary2

    QuiteContrary2 says:

    'GoodMorningEveryone' - will you please stop tarnishing our lovely Etsy with your commercial rubbish and leave it to the lovely people who've actually got handmade things to sell? Gorgeous story happyFamilies - made me hope and pray that someday this may be me!

    2 years ago

  • evihan

    evihan says:

    wowwwww great article...

    2 years ago

  • SnowdropsAndDaisies

    SnowdropsAndDaisies says:

    Lovely story, what a life... bet it's hard work too though. Wonderful t's BTW. (it is a bit spam-tastic today huh?)

    2 years ago

  • craftaria

    craftaria says:

    Such an inspiration! Good luck with everything.

    2 years ago

  • ForYouDesigns

    ForYouDesigns says:

    Super inspiring !! As Mum to two - aged 11 & 7 - it's great to read about how others manage a business and family life. Thanks for sharing :) Cheers, Tasha

    2 years ago

  • candaradesign

    candaradesign says:

    Great read. We have always had a home based business so we could stay at home with the kids. I am hoping that my etsy shops will provide us all with work now the girls are older and needing work. We are working hard on them and reading about someone elses success is very inspiring and helps us to keep going when sales are slow. Thanks. G xx

    2 years ago

  • SewBeans

    SewBeans says:

    What an inspiration!

    2 years ago

  • Momo71

    Momo71 says:

    What an incredible story! Great job happyfamily! I love your products.

    2 years ago

  • cbartist

    cbartist says:

    Best wishes for more success to happyfamily!

    2 years ago

  • MartiArtStudio

    MartiArtStudio says:

    I love your story!! What a beautiful life to be able to really raise your kids and be together all the time. I would love to work with my husband, maybe one day! Thanks for all the great advice and for inspiring me!!

    2 years ago

  • bijougirldesigns

    bijougirldesigns says:

    Great article! I love seeing other families out there doing similar stuff to mine. It's inspiring and encouraging - sharing your story helps other persevere! So, thanks, and best wishes. I hope you sell the snot out of some t-shirts!

    2 years ago

  • breadandroses

    breadandroses says:

    Wonderful seller feature, beautiful family. Congratulations! The dolphin story is priceless.

    2 years ago

  • amysfunkyfibers

    amysfunkyfibers says:

    So glad to hear that you have time to enjoy your kids and have french toast while doing something that you love!

    2 years ago

  • klacustomcreations

    klacustomcreations says:

    wishing you continued success, I think I may have to snag the 4 T for my son!

    2 years ago

  • LittleStudioJewels

    LittleStudioJewels says:

    Fabulous, inspiring story, I wish them all the successes they can get :D

    2 years ago

  • TreeHuggerStudio

    TreeHuggerStudio says:

    Thank you for sharing your story I love these articles,and your stuff is awesome. Now I need to go to the beach to see if any dolphins give me a sign to bad I live in Indiana maybe I could go down to the river and subsitute catfish.LOL. Wishing you continued luck on your etsy journey.Keep on Keepin on.

    2 years ago

  • girltuesdayjewelry
  • RubyStudios

    RubyStudios says:

    What a nice, happy family. Thanks for the peek into your lives and best wishes!! You've got your priorities straight.

    2 years ago

  • SandrasInnovations

    SandrasInnovations says:

    Very inspiring story!

    2 years ago

  • photosnotforgotten

    photosnotforgotten says:

    Thank you so much for sharing your story!

    2 years ago

  • SugarPineBoutique

    SugarPineBoutique says:

    Super! Love the prints, what an awesome thing to be able to work at what you love! ; ) Kudos!

    2 years ago

  • Baggavond

    Baggavond says:

    great article!

    2 years ago

  • charmschooldesign

    charmschooldesign says:

    amazing!! you guys have come such a long way and been such an inspiration for me over the years :)

    2 years ago

  • japonicas

    japonicas says:

    nothing is better than this! :) truely enjoying crafting and family life! :)

    2 years ago

  • Sunsetgirl

    Sunsetgirl says:

    A great read! It is so inspiring!

    2 years ago

  • RegalCottage

    RegalCottage says:

    Lovely article! Thanks for the inspiration. I will be following you on twitter for more inspiration.

    2 years ago

  • KayeAtelier

    KayeAtelier says:

    Great article!

    2 years ago

  • emmieloustudios

    emmieloustudios says:

    I love this series - well done guys! x

    2 years ago

  • PhineasandLou

    PhineasandLou says:

    Love this story and the totally positive energy!! Thanks :)

    2 years ago

  • GarageInc

    GarageInc says:

    i learn so much with you guys, i hope some day be like you and give up my day job, good luck.

    2 years ago

  • OldSchoolPhotoArt

    OldSchoolPhotoArt says:

    This kind of story truly inspires.

    2 years ago

  • LilBlossoms

    LilBlossoms says:

    You two are so inspiring, if only I could get my husband to pitch in! He is so talented making custom furniture for friends... one day :)

    2 years ago

  • LisaFerinDesigns

    LisaFerinDesigns says:

    Wonderful story, cool items, adorable kids. All the best!

    2 years ago

  • starvingartistbazaar

    starvingartistbazaar says:

    Great interview!

    2 years ago

  • heavenlybathsalts

    heavenlybathsalts says:

    Wonderful story, lovely pics of your family, and beautiful designs! Best wishes!!

    2 years ago

  • fatcrowpress

    fatcrowpress says:

    Very inspiring! I am carving and printing like a mad woman building up inventory for shows in the hopes that I will be a quit your day job artist!

    2 years ago

  • artwithallie

    artwithallie says:

    Fantastic story guys!! I don't doubt for 1 minute that you're life would be hectic and hard at times especially with the little sleep you get with young kids. Then one day you will wake up and realise you're kids have grown into teenagers, you won't know where the time went but you will both be so proud and grateful that not only did you get to spend that time at home with them but you got paid to do so!! Keep living that happyfamily life...there's truly nothing better!!

    2 years ago

  • StudioMo

    StudioMo says:

    Really enjoyed ready your article and I love all your designs. I wish you lots of continued luck. Melissa.

    2 years ago

  • underoakstudios

    underoakstudios says:

    Great stuff guys!

    2 years ago

  • GarageInc

    GarageInc says:

    un sueño hecho realidad...

    2 years ago

  • monichelledesigns

    monichelledesigns says:

    What a wonderful, inspiring, sweet story! Thanks for sharing!

    2 years ago

  • JammyART

    JammyART says:

    I love this shop!! Great t-shirts and great article=)

    2 years ago

  • PippiHepburn

    PippiHepburn says:

    Wow, what a lovely article. Thank you for telling the truth. So many of these etsians featured in the storque say they work 9-4, then a little again at night. Most of us are like you guys. We work, work, work, and then work a little more. You are a wonderful family.

    2 years ago

  • perebags

    perebags says:

    Fantastic story! Three cheers for those dolphins!!!!

    2 years ago

  • perebags

    perebags says:

    Fantastic story! Three cheers for those dolphins!!! :)

    2 years ago

  • MrTom

    MrTom says:

    Great article ~ as somebody famous said "It's never too late to be what you might have been" an inspiration to us all

    2 years ago

  • MySolCreations

    MySolCreations says:

    What a beautiful family and what inspiration! Thank you.

    2 years ago

  • joyceweaver

    joyceweaver says:

    I've seen the messenger bags before & now I gotta get one! Great story & good luck to you!

    2 years ago

  • shopgoodgrace

    shopgoodgrace says:

    oh my! love the story behind these great designs. What a lovely family affair. :)

    2 years ago

  • folkheirloomsbypaige

    folkheirloomsbypaige says:

    awsome story!

    2 years ago

  • themefragrance

    themefragrance says:

    Love the tees!

    2 years ago

  • Lambsears

    Lambsears says:

    It's amazing! So many times we want others to just flock to our stores without really working hard for it. This couple works hard and it shows in their sales. Good inspiration! Time to get back to work! :-)

    2 years ago

  • bluebirdart

    bluebirdart says:

    very inspiring! keep up the great work happyfamily!

    2 years ago

  • FernBlossomStudio

    FernBlossomStudio says:

    Great story and great inspiration!

    2 years ago

  • amoronia

    amoronia says:

    Very inspiring!

    2 years ago

  • sweetirie

    sweetirie says:

    Love these articles!!! Always inspiring!

    2 years ago

  • BratBoutique

    BratBoutique says:

    Love it! Thanks for this article!

    2 years ago

  • AzitasSurprises

    AzitasSurprises says:

    very inspiring!

    2 years ago

  • EcoInspired

    EcoInspired says:

    Thanks for sharing your story. It's a lovely read. I'm at the very start of my journey into the world of screen-printing and etsy. Feeling inspired and ready for some hard work.

    2 years ago

  • Design4u

    Design4u says:

    Love this story. Wonderful little family. It's a great upbringing for their boys. Best wishes to them! Thanks for sharing.

    2 years ago

  • soapychica

    soapychica says:

    This is lovely to see- very inspiring family living the good life!

    2 years ago

  • 2TrickPony

    2TrickPony says:

    And why shouldn't dolphins determine one's destiny? They are very smart, and they all quit their day jobs, too:)

    2 years ago

  • wildcubs

    wildcubs says:

    Very inspiring story!

    2 years ago

  • bittybambu

    bittybambu says:

    I am amazed that you two can juggle work, kids, home, life together side by side. Truly inspiring. I your shop and your story.

    2 years ago

  • cwrightartgallery

    cwrightartgallery says:

    Great story !!

    2 years ago

  • andtherainfell

    andtherainfell says:

    lovely story!

    2 years ago

  • theenchantedcupboard

    theenchantedcupboard says:

    Love this story!

    2 years ago

  • dsenyo

    dsenyo says:

    Thanks for sharing your story. I just committed to blogging once a week. It's already helped me get myself organized and connect with people in cyber space. http://www.dsenyo.com/blogs/marissa

    2 years ago

  • SimonandRuby

    SimonandRuby says:

    thank you for the inspiration.

    2 years ago

  • Uniqueartglass

    Uniqueartglass says:

    thanks for sharing!!Wonderful story

    2 years ago

  • TheAntiquePalette

    TheAntiquePalette says:

    Super family with a real neat story, ta!

    2 years ago

  • alectonyx

    alectonyx says:

    this is inspirational! i hope you still have success for many many years to come. your kids are so cute!!!

    2 years ago

  • darcyarts

    darcyarts says:

    We love wearing your Grow your Own Food T shirt! Thanks!

    2 years ago

  • jennifermagnesi

    jennifermagnesi says:

    So inspiring! I am showing this to my husband right now :)

    2 years ago

  • Yayahandicraft

    Yayahandicraft says:

    Wow, to many things to do. Good luck for your beautiful family

    2 years ago

  • janeheller

    janeheller says:

    Fantastic inspiration - thanks

    2 years ago

  • smilingbluedog

    smilingbluedog says:

    Wow, that's such an inspiring story and gives me hope. I love the dolphins' input :) Wishing you guys all the best.

    2 years ago

  • jillaphillips

    jillaphillips says:

    I have purchased a few shirts and keep coming back. Today I purchased a shirt for my son's second birthday. He was sporting one of their "1" shirts on his first birthday. It's a new tradition! Love the shirts, the shop, the sellers and now, the story!

    2 years ago

  • muzie5

    muzie5 says:

    Great article! I love the birthday shirt idea! http://www.wildernesslane.com - For All Your Baby Needs!

    2 years ago

  • MyPatternedMind

    MyPatternedMind says:

    Just loooove the Dina Camera and the Vintage Fleur!

    2 years ago

  • tcbempowered

    tcbempowered says:

    Great story. Very inspirational. Hope to visit your NO shop soon.

    2 years ago

  • missorangeshop

    missorangeshop says:

    Great story ... Your designs are really cool!

    2 years ago

  • thedarkerberry

    thedarkerberry says:

    this story was very insightful and inspiring. Thanks!

    2 years ago

  • BambuEarth

    BambuEarth says:

    Great story. I love the "Grow your own Food" shirt... considering buying a few!

    1 year ago

  • link2jamai

    link2jamai says:

    Wow!... It's good to see how seccesfull Etsy can be.

    1 year ago

  • caitlinjacokes

    Caitlin Jacokes says:

    Its been 10 days since it says my order has shipped, should i be concerned?

    68 days ago