We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lindsey Hayes a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Lindsey, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

The most significant risk I took was leaving my secure job to focus on my creative business full-time. I was working full-time in retail in November of 2022. While it was nice having the stability, the stress was very overwhelming. My late mother taught me to crochet as a child and I was crocheting as a way to combat the stress. Since It was a skill she taught me, I connected crochet with comfort and love. Crocheting grounded me mentally and emotionally. After a few months, I really wanted to have my own creative business. I was holding it off because supporting yourself and your family as an artist is so unconventional. I was raised that you worked 30 years for someone else, then maybe retired. If you’re an artist you must always “starve,” so I was petrified of the unknown and failure.

While the retail job was getting harder and more stressful, my crochet work was getting more popular. I started doing pop-ups and selling online but wasn’t making enough to keep doing both. I had to make a decision whether I would dedicate the time and attention a business needs or remain in my “safe” retail job. Having the courage to put in my 2 weeks was hard. Any kind of life change is difficult, but when there’s no guarantee of success it hurts. No one else is going to believe in your dream if you don’t, so I took the risk. I’ve been full-time in my business for less than a month, and see so much success in these 3 weeks. I have the time to make connections, make more products, and support myself doing something I love.

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.

Made by Auntie Linz is a crochet and craft business focused on cozy handmade accessories and decor. As an avid crochet artist and crafter, Made By Auntie Linz was created out of my love and passion for creating unique handmade goods and crafts for everyone.

I have been crocheting for over 20 years and really love the craft. Positivity and good energy are important to me, I want to spread that positivity and warmth to others with my makes. My products are perfect for anyone trying to stay away from mass-produced goods. My shop is oriented around cozy chic, rustic, and cottage-core styles. I love to take rustic, nature-inspired elements and make them cozy for any space. I am very particular about how things feel, so most of my products are made with plush blanket or velvet yarn,

I’m most proud of creating items I know people will cherish. Crochet requires focus and skill. Many of my previous customers have complimented the workmanship and detail, and understand how much time goes into crochet.

I strive to serve individuals who have a creative mind and spirit and appreciate nature, handmade skills, and the sensory experience of each item. In my shop, you’ll crochet plushies, purses, hats, and other hair accessories. My cozy chic crochet boutique has something for everyone!

When I’m nott crocheting, I enjoy cozy video games, spending time with family, binging movies, and hot matcha lattes.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Think of small businesses first! When it comes to birthdays, weddings, and other special occasions small businesses offer unique and incredible handmade goods. You can’t replicate great art or handmade goods, and they make thoughtful gifts,

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

It would have to be the freedom of how I choose to live. The amount of work I put in is how much I get back. I don’t have to explain my actions to anyone. If I need a mental health day, I take one without feeling like a burden or guilty. I also really love what I do, I don’t have any “bad days” at work.

Contact Info:

• Website: madebyauntielinz.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madebyauntielinz/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madebyauntielinz
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB8P1uhfW_thJGgZlQ3fDSg