Today we’d like to introduce you to Ericka Mitterhofer.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey began in 2020 when the world came to a standstill due to the pandemic. Faced with the prospect of long days indoors, I turned to crafting as a way to channel my creativity and pass the time. Little did I know that this simple pastime would evolve into something much greater.
As I began sharing my creations online- mind you, that were only digital at the time, I was met with an unexpectedly warm reception. Encouraged by the positive feedback, I decided to take a leap of faith and turn my hobby into a business. With each design I shared, my following grew, and before I knew it, I had a community of supporters cheering me on. This feeling is unlike any other!
What truly sparked the transformation was when people started reaching out to request my designs on various products. It was a lightbulb moment for me – an opportunity to turn my passion into a sustainable venture. From apparel to glassware to everyday accessories, I poured my heart into each design, blending my love for craftsmanship with graphic design. I wanted to create products that brought light to others but also products I would actually use myself in my everyday life.
Now, as I reflect on the journey, I am humbled by how far I’ve come. It’s been four years since I embarked on this entrepreneurial path, and while the road hasn’t always been smooth, it’s been incredibly rewarding. Today, I am proud to say that I am the owner of a thriving business where I continue to craft, design, and inspire others with my work. And as I look to the future, I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Navigating the path of entrepreneurship has certainly had its share of challenges, but I count myself fortunate to have weathered them with the support of my incredible community of customers. While entrepreneurship isn’t a walk in the park, the connections I’ve formed with those who appreciate my work have made the journey considerably smoother.
One of the recurring struggles I’ve faced is the constant pressure to stay creatively inspired and relevant in a fast-paced market. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing oneself to others or chasing fleeting trends. There have been moments when I’ve questioned my own creativity and felt overwhelmed by the success of other businesses. However, in those moments of doubt, the positive comments and messages from my customers serve as a beacon of encouragement, reminding me of the value my creations hold for them.
Indeed, maintaining authenticity in a world driven by trends can be challenging. Yet, I’ve come to realize that the true essence of my business lies in crafting products that resonate with me personally and, by extension, with my customers. While it may sometimes feel like I’m struggling to keep up, I find solace in the knowledge that my customers appreciate my items not because they’re trendy but because they align with their day-to-day lives.
So, while the road may not always be smooth, the bonds forged with my customers and the conviction in my craft have carried me through the toughest of times, reminding me that success is not measured solely by external benchmarks but by the meaningful connections we cultivate along the way.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Based in the vibrant city of Houston, Texas, I am the proud owner of a business that specializes in crafting stationery, glassware, apparel, and various accessories.
What truly sets me apart is my commitment to authenticity. I believe in being unapologetically myself, and I infuse this ethos into every aspect of my work. You could say I embody the sentiment of the viral statement “I’m just a girl” – relatable, genuine, and figuring things out as I go. I think my customers appreciate the personal touch I bring to my creations, as they resonate with my experiences and values.
One of my proudest achievements to date is seeing my products stocked in 446 boutiques worldwide. While I primarily operate online, venturing into wholesale distribution two years ago has been a game-changer. It’s incredibly rewarding to walk into a storefront and see my items proudly displayed, knowing that they’re reaching customers far beyond the digital realm.
What I specialize in goes beyond the tangible products themselves – it’s about fostering connections and creating moments of joy and inspiration for those who interact with my brand. Whether it’s through a beautifully designed stationery set, a whimsical glassware collection, or a cozy apparel line, I aim to evoke emotions and spark conversations.
In a sea of businesses, I stand out by staying true to who I am and what I believe in. My journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and the impact it can have on building meaningful connections with customers around the world.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I want to emphasize the profound impact that shopping small and supporting independent businesses can have. Every purchase, no matter how small, is a vote of confidence in someone’s dream. As a small business owner myself, I can attest to the joy and gratitude that fills my heart with every order that comes through. It’s not just a transaction; it’s a tangible expression of support that fuels our passion and fuels our dreams. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for choosing to shop small. Your decision makes a world of difference, and it’s something worth celebrating with a happy dance – trust me, I do it every time!
Pricing:
- Glassware- $15-$22
- Apparel- $25-50
- Bookmarks- $3.75-$6.50
- Notepads- $9.50-$15
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ElectricFeelsCompany?ref=seller-platform-mcnav
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/electricfeelsco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ErickasElectricEdits
- Other: https://www.erickaselectricedits.com/
