We recently connected with Hannah Villanueva and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Hannah thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you find your key vendor or vendors? Maybe you can share the backstory and share some context and the relevant details to help us understand why you chose them, why they chose you, etc.

When I had the idea to manufacture bath mats I knew I wanted to use recycled cotton and ensure good quality, all while making my designs look great on a new medium. I searched for factories in the US but options were non-existent. I knew I would need to rely on my network and made a point to have conversations with fellow makers and vendors when attending markets. It was at one of these markets that I met another vendor who used to work in textiles and kindly referred me to a manufacturer in India. I have a background in new product development so I knew the basics of establishing a relationship with a manufacturer and communicating deadlines, samples, and feedback. So far the relationship has been successful and I can’t wait to debut my newest product!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I never thought I would be a full time artist. It really is a dream come true! I started Hannah Via Art as a way to bring joy and comfort to peoples spaces. I have a background in printmaking, embroidery, and fiber art. Through these mediums, I have been able to explore nature, queer identities, and the ways in which we self-soothe through art. I currently offer tufted art, prints, stickers, cards and soon- bath mats!

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

I have found that meeting people in person is the most important way to build connections and grow clientele. Being able to speak directly to people and show them my work in person is invaluable.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I’ve made many pivots in my life. I started out in project management out of college and it took me five years to gain the confidence and realization that it wasn’t for me. I needed to be my own boss, do something new every day, and be able to challenge myself with new ideas. When I first started doing my business full time I decided I would rely on teaching tufting workshops for a majority of my income. I marketed the workshops and tried everything I could think of to garner sign ups but in the end the economy won out and I decided I needed to focus on other possibilities. I moved to a smaller studio and I have been so much more successful and happier!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.hannahviaart.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannah.via.art/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-villanueva/