Today we’d like to introduce you to Asli Wade
Hi Asli, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story starts with my dad. When I was seven, he taught me how to make my first picture frame—a simple yet meaningful piece that he kept for over 35 years. That moment planted a seed, but I never imagined it would grow into a thriving business. Years later, as a mom of four, I wanted to create something personal and timeless that truly mattered.
I started making personalized picture frames from my home studio, focusing on quality, sentiment, and meaningful gifts for life’s most special moments. What began as a small Etsy shop quickly grew, with thousands of customers connecting deeply to the emotion behind my work. Today, ButterLu has helped people all around the world as they celebrate love, loss, and everything in between.
Recently, I launched car hugs, inspirational rearview mirror ornaments designed to provide motivation, comfort, and connection. They were inspired by my daughter’s journey to college—I wanted her to have a daily reminder that she’s loved and supported. That same heart led me to my newest product line, inner child frames, designed for those on a healing journey. These frames hold childhood photos alongside powerful affirmations, helping people reconnect with and nurture their inner child.
At the heart of everything I create is a deep desire to make people feel seen, loved, and valued. Whether it’s a frame that holds a cherished memory, a car hug that offers a moment of encouragement, or an inner child frame that reminds someone they were always enough, my goal is to craft keepsakes for the soul that truly mean something.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. In the beginning, my business grew quickly—faster than I ever expected—which was both exciting and overwhelming. Juggling a booming Etsy shop while mothering 4 children was a challenge, and there were times when keeping up felt nearly impossible. Finding a balance between work and family was something I had to learn on the go.
Now, things look a little different. Etsy has slowed down, and I’m shifting my focus to new sales avenues—growing on Instagram, selling in-person at markets, and exploring wholesale opportunities. In a way, I feel like I’m starting over, rebuilding my business with a more diverse foundation. Etsy will always be a piece of the puzzle, but I no longer want it to be the whole picture. It’s a new season, and while it comes with challenges, I’m excited about the opportunities ahead and connecting with my local community.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I create personalized picture frames and car hugs—handmade keepsakes that capture life’s most meaningful moments. My work is all about storytelling, whether it’s a frame that holds a cherished memory, a car hug that offers daily inspiration, or my newest Inner Child Frames designed for healing and self-love.
I specialize in sentimental, high-quality gifts that make people feel seen, loved, and valued. My frames are known for their modern, heartfelt designs—perfect for weddings, memorials, new babies, pet loss, and more. What sets my work apart is the deep emotional connection behind each piece. My customers don’t just buy a frame; they buy a way to express love, celebrate milestones, or honor someone they’ve lost.
I’m most proud of how my business has grown from a passion project into something that truly impacts people’s lives. With over 95,000 sales and 15,000 five-star reviews, I’ve had the honor of creating gifts that bring comfort, joy, and connection. Unlike mass-produced gifts, my pieces are crafted with intention, designed to last, and made to tell a story—your story.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Networking and finding mentors has been a mix of intentional effort and organic connections for me. I didn’t start out with a mentor, but I’ve built relationships by putting myself in spaces where other business owners are—whether that’s online communities, social media, or in-person markets.
One of the biggest things that has worked for me is engaging with like-minded entrepreneurs. I’ve found so much value in connecting with people in Facebook groups, Instagram, and even Etsy forums, where I can learn from others and share my own experiences. Sometimes, the best insights come from casual conversations with people who are just a few steps ahead.
Another game-changer has been attending events and craft markets. Being around other makers and business owners has opened up opportunities I wouldn’t have found otherwise. Conversations at events have led to wholesale leads, collaborations, and new ideas for growing beyond Etsy.
I’m also a huge fan of self-growth and personal development. I actively participate in programs and learn from mentors like Brendon Burchard, Natalie Ellis, and Jacqueline Snyder, as well as others in the business and mindset space. Investing in growth—whether through books, courses, or coaching—has played a huge role in shaping how I approach both life and business.
When it comes to mentorship, I believe it happens organically. Instead of formally asking someone to be a mentor, I’ve learned by following and engaging with business owners I admire, listening to podcasts, and investing in courses that align with my goals. It’s a way of learning from people’s experiences without necessarily having a one-on-one mentorship.
Ultimately, networking is about building real relationships, not just making business connections. I’ve found that by showing up, sharing, and supporting others, the right opportunities and people naturally come into my path.
Pricing:
- Personalized Picture Frames: Starting at $25, with free customization included.
- Car Hugs (Rearview Mirror Ornaments): Priced between $8 – $13
- Wholesale Pricing: Available for bulk orders—perfect for boutiques and gift shops.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/butterlu/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boutiquebutterlu/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boutiquebutterlu
