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

Sharon , appreciate you 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.

When I decided to launch a line of greeting cards, stickers and gifts that sang my original songs from QR codes on the art, I was told that folks in the US would never warm up to using QR codes.

This was a couple years before the pandemic changed many people’s understanding of what a QR code is or could do.

Creatively, I have a tendency to be a couple steps ahead of the curve with what I do. And with previous projects, I retreated instead of standing up for what I was doing,

This time, I took a risk and produced my first line of stationery that sings. The first time a stranger looked at one of my designs, honestly? I was terrified.

And then? They nodded, smiled, scanned the QR code. Listened and said: I love this!

That moment, between their first look at my work and their happy response, felt a year-long.

But it also showed me the positive side of taking a risk. If I’d changed plans, I wouldn’t have brought another person happiness.

And I certainly wouldn’t have been there to see it.

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

I’m an introverted, Brooklyn, NY fashion writer turned Colorado designer and songwriter of cards and gifts that sing. Proud player of multiple musical instruments. Self-taught designer. And passionate greeting card maker.

Smile Songs got its start when a fan of my live music said, “If only there was a way we could take you home and put you on the wall so we could hear your songs and see the happiness you create!”

I loved this idea. But how could I do it? It took me a minute to realize that everyone loves greeting cards. I couldn’t stop smiling! Being a greeting card designer was a dream of mine I’d put on hold while I pursued careers that I was “supposed to do.”

Over the next few months, I learned digital graphic design. Created a home recording studio. Taught myself music production.

Now, how would I make my cards sing? After some R+D, I realized QR codes were perfect for smartphone lovers. More eco-friendly than plastic chips. And I could make them look pretty cute, too.

The response to Smile Songs musical greeting cards was so encouraging, I started adding songs to other things folks love: stickers, magnets, wall art. Their sunny illustrations, inspiring words and endearing, original songs are designed to delight your senses. Celebrate your best self. And help you send a smile to the special people in your life.

And I’m honored to say that the industry loves Smile Songs, too. Smile Songs won Best New Product at one of the country’s largest gift shows, based on buyer response.

One thing I’d love for folks to know is that I create each design and song to celebrate your best self. Kindness, And the positive powers of optimism – with a nerdy sense of humor on the side.

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

To quote that classic Aretha Franklin song, I think society can help support creatives by showing their R-E-S-P-E-C-T for our selves, our process and our products.

This could mean actively seeking out a small creative business to buy your gifts, Or everyday things.

It could mean taking a second to tell a creator (on social, IRL) that you like their work, and why.

It could mean collaborating with a creator on a project or product. And if you’re a person who hires folks for project work, hiring us to add a bit of creative wow to whatever you’re working on.

Ultimately, it’s about realizing that small creative business are the roots of a thriving creative ecosystem. And we champion respect for you as much as we value getting it from you.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Smile Songs are designed with your happiness in mind. (I know, it rhymes! But it’s also true.)

When I started out in my creative career, I remembered a portion of an Italian text I’d read in college,

Its message was simple, but life-changing. The message? That it’s up to those of us who have been comforted in tough times by another person’s compassion to help others feel comforted, loved and supported in challenging times – and good ones, too,

Every time I see – or hear about – a person feeling or sharing happiness by getting or giving one of my products, I feel I’m fulfilling my creative mission.

Contact Info:

• Website: smilesongs.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/smile_songs
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/sharonglassman
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgs18R0SvmYyxNBk-SDNiyQ
• Other: Order wholesale on Faire: smilesongs.faire.com

Image Credits
Lauren McDonough, Sharon Glassman, Smile Songs