Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lynn Miano. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Lynn, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

Owning my little business has saved my life in more ways that one. During the start of the pandemic I was a full time bartender. Not being able to work and make money was extremely discouraging and depressing for me when everything shut down. That’s when I took a deeper dive into what my business has to offer. I began doing commissions and mailing out as much handmade products as I could and in return is helped restore my mentality and belief in myself and my creating business. I have gained so much confidence and growth through owning my business since then and continue to try and grow everyday possible.

Lynn, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Smilynn Art is built on spreading as much love as possible through handmade paper and felt products. It all began with some classic water color greeting cards and has evolved into something I have always dreamed of ever since I was a little kid. Magnets, puzzles, stickers, keychains, buttons, even cat toys! Anytime someone suggests something it is my pleasure to make it come to life! I love doing custom orders and commissions. The more personal the better. I love being apart of local markets and updating my followers through my website and social media. My goals for the year and years to come is to hopefully start selling my goodies in many more storefronts. I am in love with my little side business and it would be a total dream come true to share it with as many people as possible. Local love is the best love y’all!

: Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Smilynn Art all started with the inspiration I received as a child from my mother. All through out my childhood my mother would gift me greeting cards for any occasion. Sorry, birthdays, rough days, and simply just because. I’ve kept a lot of them and after she passed away when I was a teen I followed in her footsteps and continued giving cards to those in my life as much as possible. With my business my goal is to help others feel the warmth and joy from my greeting cards and other hand made products just like my mother gave me, as much as possible. Spreading joy and love is so simple and can really impact us in such a big way.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Houston is such a big city full of so many different creative crafters. It constantly lifts us small businesses and connects us while doing so. I love being from Houston and helping other artists feel the local love while supporting ourselves as small business owners and fellow creators.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.smilynnart.com
• Instagram: @smilynn_art