Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber James.
Hi Amber, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
In the heart of New York City, Notes To Self Shop was born from my personal trials. Facing the profound loss of my grandfather and enduring two hospitalizations, which resulted in the removal of my appendix and gallbladder removal (all during the pandemic in 2021), I felt so alone and isolated.
As I started to heal, I wrote affirming notes to myself. These colorful notes, plastered across my apartment walls, had messages like “You are brave,” “You’ve got this,” and “I am beautiful.” They made me feel less alone and more motivated to keep healing.
Realizing the potential of these notes to uplift others, I launched the Instagram account @NotesToSelfShop. I knew how much these helped me, so I hoped someone who needed a little encouragement would stumble on my account and feel less alone. It seemed like overnight, my account exploded. Soon, I realized I had something much bigger in front of me.
Today, Notes To Self Shop is a thriving business dedicated to empowering others. My journey has inspired a range of products, including empowering books (including my debut memoir “I Blew Up My Life, And I’ve Never Been Happier,”), notebooks, journals, sticky notes, and art, all infused with the spirit of my original notes.
Now, I am using my platform to help others self-publish their dream passion projects (mostly books and journals) with my latest course community, Publish With Heart. https://notestoselfshop.thrivecart.com/publish-with-heart/
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Sometimes, you have to pivot — and that’s okay.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Notes To Self Shop?
I started this business from scratch and didn’t stop—even when I was in debt. But by leaning into my passion for publishing and sharing stories, I’ve been able to not only self-publish my own books and journals but also help others around the world finally get their books and stories out into the world without needing an agent or traditional publisher.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Starting a small business really means dreaming BIG and embracing every step as a lesson.
Start where you are with what you have, keep learning, don’t be afraid to pivot, and remember to celebrate every win, no matter how small.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://notestoselfshop.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notestoselfshop/
- Other: https://notestoselfshop.thrivecart.com/publish-with-heart/
Image Credits
I own all photo rights