We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Keithra Morley. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Keithra below.

Hi Keithra, thanks for joining us today. One of the toughest things about entrepreneurship is that there is almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

My crafting business was thriving, with customers flocking to get their creative items. However, the unexpected arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic sent shockwaves through businesses worldwide, and mine was no exception. As news of lockdowns and restrictions spread, I faced the immediate challenge of temporarily closing the doors to my crafting business. The heart of my business, the communal crafting experience, suddenly seemed in jeopardy as social distancing measures took precedence.
The initial wave of uncertainty and fear swept through, but amidst the chaos, I refused to let my business succumb to the challenges. In the face of adversity, I decided to pivot, recognizing that the essence of helping customers celebrate their special occasions during lockdown. The first step was to transition to create items that were needed during this time which were masks. Embracing creativity, I created masks that were tailor made to each customer’s liking.
Adapting to the changing landscape, you also ramped up my online presence. Social media became a vital tool to stay connected with the community.
The unexpected problems posed by the pandemic became an opportunity for growth. The pivot to virtual platforms expanded my reach in the local community, attracting customers from various islands around The Bahamas.

The resilience I displayed during the unexpected challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic not only ensured the survival of my crafting business but positioned it as a beacon of adaptability and community support. Through these trials, I discovered new avenues for growth and learned that even in the face of unforeseen obstacles, the spirit of creativity and connection could prevail.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

The Creative Studio, where crafting is not just an art; it’s a celebration of life’s moments. Our studio is a haven for creative expression, offering a diverse range of carefully curated products that blend craftsmanship with personalization. At the heart of our offerings are our custom-designed T-shirts, each a canvas for individuality and self-expression. Whether you’re looking for a unique graphic tee to showcase your personality or envisioning a custom shirt for a special occasion, our T-shirt collection is a testament to the artistry and quality we infuse into every design. We understand that crafting is not just about the end product; it’s about the journey. That’s why we provide a range of crafting supplies and materials, ensuring that you have access to the tools you need to turn your creative ideas into reality. Our shelves are stocked with high-quality materials, from fabric paints and vinyl decals for T-shirts to embellishments and coatings for tumblers, giving you the freedom to explore and experiment with your crafting projects.

At The Creative Studio, our mission is to offer more than just products; we aim to provide a platform for self-discovery and creative exploration. Whether you’re looking to express yourself through personalized wearables, commemorate a special moment, or engage in the joy of crafting, The Creative Studio invites you to join us in a world where every creation is a masterpiece of your own making.

Have you ever had to pivot?

During the time when “The Creative Studio,” thrived, I faced a turning point in both my personal and professional life. As the founder and creative force behind an customization studio that specialized in creating items filled with warmth and unity, I found myself navigating the tumultuous waters of a divorce.

My divorce wasn’t just the end of a chapter; it was a seismic shift that resonated through every aspect of my life, including the business I had built from the ground up. The Creative Studio had been synonymous with conjugal bliss and shared dreams, and now I stood at the crossroads, contemplating how to reshape my enterprise in the aftermath of my personal storm.

As I faced the reality of restructuring, I realized that the essence of my business could be retained while embracing a new narrative. Instead of focusing solely on creating customized items for individuals, I decided to expand and niche down on helping clientele honor the memories of their love ones that had passed away.

Collaborations with life coaches, therapists became a hallmark of my business and personal life. The items I created weren’t just visually stunning; they were intentional, promoting emotional well-being and personal growth.

Through this period of upheaval, I not only salvaged my business but transformed it into something even more meaningful. The challenges posed by the divorce became the catalyst for a new era in The Creative Studio, one that celebrated resilience, self-love, and the beauty of personal metamorphosis.

In the end, your journey from the heartbreak of divorce to the revival of The Creative Studio became an inspiring tale for others facing adversity. It proved that, even in the face of personal storms, a business could not only weather the challenges but also emerge stronger and more purposeful than ever before.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

The lesson I had to unlearn was the notion that holding onto failure is a sign of weakness or a lack of perseverance. In many entrepreneurial and personal development circles, there’s often an emphasis on persistence, resilience, and not giving up easily. While these qualities are undoubtedly important, there comes a time when holding onto a failing endeavor can become counterproductive. I had to realize the unlearning process involved recognizing that failure is not a reflection of personal worth or capability. Instead, failure is an inherent part of the learning process and a stepping stone toward growth. Clinging to a failing venture, whether it’s a business or a personal pursuit, can impede progress and prevent me from exploring new opportunities.
The realization that letting go of failure sooner can be a wise and strategic decision is a paradigm shift. It involves acknowledging that the ability to pivot, adapt, and move on from a failed venture is a strength, not a weakness. It’s about understanding that success often involves a series of trial-and-error experiences, and each failure provides valuable lessons that can inform future endeavors.
Ultimately, by unlearning the notion that holding onto failure is a virtue, I’ve opened myself up to a more dynamic and adaptive approach to both business and personal growth. This shift in mindset allowed me to navigate challenges with resilience, learn from setbacks, and move forward with a clearer understanding of my goals and the strategies needed to achieve them.

Contact Info:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecreativestudio242
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithramorley/