Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Krystal Stark. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Krystal, appreciate you joining us today. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea
Before Crafty Krystal, I was an elementary teacher for almost a decade and loved it, but becoming a mom encouraged a change.
It was late summer, I was at Forsyth Park on a play date, when an older child expressed wanting to do something different. That’s when the idea struck: what if I offered a craft or activity right here in the park?
As a teacher, I am great at prepping projects and giving directions, and I know all too well that there is a lack of screen-free creative options out there.
Th next week I applied for a permit and then soon after set up a little table at Forsyth Park offering only a paint kit and weaver craft activity. Now that’s grown to a variety of paint kits, different textile kits, science and sensory, and more!
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?
My goal is to offer screen-free creative opportunities. I am always looking to add to what I offer, hearing the feedback when customers share the fun they had with one of my craft kits is always greatly appreciated. As a toddler mom and former teacher, I love any chance to be creative and hands-on; the best memories are memories you craft!
I have craft kits for everyone, ages 2+. I offer a variety of paint kits, different textile crafts, science & sensory kits and more at my table setup at Forsyth Park on weekends and on my website www.CraftyKrystal.com with free shipping/delivery. Head to my website to see events I completely crafted, craft parties I led, or personalized party favors I created.
CraftyKrystal is here to provide you with everything to get crafty, from kits to parties- let’s craft some memories.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
Signage. Clear signs, labels, tags. Things to catch the eye of passersby and customers. In the beginning, I had too many signs and they became confusing and redundant. I scrapped the original design and went a new route. The first day with my new signs I had many more people stop or comment, and great sales! I hear people reading my signs or catch them looking, and use it as opportunities to engage. Every-so-often I’ll forget a sign, and those days I definitely notice a difference!
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
More isn’t always better. When I first started, I wanted to offer a variety of kits so I in dove head first. I realized quickly how stressful working multiple projects at once was and I focused too much on the quantity of kits and not the quality. I ended up with a back stock of kits I wasn’t selling, so I took a break and tried to rethink my plan. Refusing to continue to add even more, i redistributed, repackaged, and reworked what I was doing. And… it paid off! I now have customers who are excited to ship my kits and repeat customers who love to create!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.CraftyKrystal.com
- Instagram: CraftyKrystal
- Facebook: CraftyKrystal
