Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Winter.
Hi Rachel, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m a born-and-raised Minnesotan with a lifelong love of creativity. In 2008, I founded Sweetpea and Co. as an outlet for the creative energy my day job couldn’t fulfill. I started by sewing children’s clothing and accessories, selling them on Etsy and at local markets. After returning to school for graphic design, I began creating original designs that were locally printed on onesies and kids’ tees. Since then, I’ve been growing and expanding my business ever since!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There has always been some challenges and learning curves involved in running your own business. In the beginning I didn’t value my work as I should have and underpriced my goods. There are many hats I have to wear from designer, social media manager, accountant, boss and so on. These are skills that I have had to learn along the way and mistakes happen. I always wish I could invest more time into one part or another of managing Sweetpea and Co., but I have to prioritize what is important and what’s a distraction. After 16 plus years, I’m getting more comfortable with the decisions I have to make.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Sweetpea and Co.?
Sweetpea and Co. is all about creating children’s goods that celebrate the joy and playfulness of childhood. You’ll find colorful clothing and accessories — for adults too — that are positive, fun, and nostalgic. My Blizzard of ’91 t-shirt is popular with my fellow Millennials. We all remember going out in that blizzard to Trick or Treat!
I’m passionate about using high-quality materials, ensuring these products can be treasured and passed down from one family to the next. Most of what you’ll find is also gender-neutral, making it easy to find the perfect gift for a baby on the way. When you come into the shop, you will find something fun and special. A cute book, a sweet onesie or a funny sticker.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I love listening to Proof to Product, Marketplace and eCommerce Badassery for business info. Wait Wait don’t Tell Me and Conan O’Brian Needs a Friend when I want to relax and laugh.
I always have a book that I’m reading. It’s the one hobby I can easily make time for. Supermaker: Crafting Business on Your Own Terms by Jaime Schmidt and Profit First by Mike Michalowicz are great business books. I love looking at mid century design and illustrators such as Alice and Martin Provensen and Mary Blair.
Skillshare is great if you need to brush up on a creative skill and I recently came upon 91 Magazine which features indie shops and interior design from England.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sweetpeaandco.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeaandco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SweetpeaandCo.HandmadeGoods
