Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessie Mertes.
Hi Jessie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
About a year and a half ago I found macrame and Knots extremely intriguing. The intricate designs and all the different types of Knots captivated my attention and I realized, there are NO macrame shops in my neck of the woods. And so began my deep dive into the world of boho style home decor, jewlery and functional pieces. I am a homeschool mama of 2 amazing kiddos, and I needed something that I could do while jamming out at night after I get the kids in bed. Something that checked off the three C’s: Creativity, Challenging and Culture. While the focus of my business is macrame, I try to incorporate as much culture of my beloved northland as possible into my business, Northern Knots. From the shores of Lake Superior to the trails in the forest, you’ll find most of my creations have a piece of the Northland knotted in to each and every one. My goal is to bring a new type of art to my hometown and surrounding areas, to help people see the beauty of hand knotted pieces with a flare of the North.
A month before a vibrant new shop opened its doors in Superior, WI, the owner, Mikinzie Shilling contacted me via Facebook when she seen some of my hand knotted macrame up for sale on marketplace. She explained that she was opening a shop here in my little town and her vision was to showcase the incredible talents of local artisans and create a hub for creativity and community spirit within her spiritual shop, named KindredHeart.
Since opening, the shop has been featured in the Superior Telegram where they have added in pictures of my pieces as well as been shown on The local WDIO.
The opening of this shop marks a significant moment for both the artisans and the community. It’s more than just a retail space; it’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, spirtuality, collaboration and coming together as a Kindred Family. It’s quite literally the family I never knew I needed and I am so beyond blessed with all the support and love gathered there! Another person I’d like to recognize is my friend, Nicole Garrison who owns That’s A Wrap for referring me to the editorial staff of The Voyage Minnesota Magazine, her work is absolutely stunning and I am so grateful for another opportunity to share my beautiful dream all across the Northland!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As I look ahead to 2025 and all the exciting growth opportunities for my macramé business, I also recognize that there are significant challenges on the horizon. One of the biggest obstacles I’m facing is my upcoming surgery on May 19th to correct my massive 21 mm Chiari 1 Malformation.
Chiari 1 in itself causes more than 2 handfuls of crappy symptoms that often put a damper on my productivity, especially recently. Not only do I have chiari but I also have a tethered spinal cord that contributes to my struggles.
Luckily, I have a wonderful support system and the best friend a homeschool mom-prenuer could ever ask for. Brittany, a great friend since high-school has offered to help me work on projects to keep my business going while I’m dealing with my disease s and also for after recovery.
Another amazing human I am more than grateful for is my person, Katie. She has been my go to for any tech support and digital creating needs while navigating this new endeavor. She actually created my logo for me and taught me all the ins and outs of editing images and techy stuff. As well as spending countless hours being the shoulder I need when I was first diagnosed and just all of life’s challenges..
Then there’s my “husband”, Josh. As I’m sure you’ve gathered, my plate as a homeschool mom with rare diseases who’s running a new business is extremely full. None of this dream would be a reality if I didn’t have a man who supported me in the home, in my goals and recognizes when I need help for any reason. I always know I can count on him to support my dreams and aspirations, he’s been my hype man, since day one!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At the core of my macramé business is a heartfelt mission: to bring uniqueness to every piece I create while engaging meaningfully with my local community. I believe that each handmade item tells a story and reflects the individuality of the maker and the customer alike.
My mission is to create unique macramé pieces that inspire and delight while actively engaging with my local community. Through this commitment, I aspire to make a positive impact, share my passion for craft, and uplift those around me.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
In the world of macramé, every piece tells a story, and my goal is to ensure that each customer feels included in that narrative. Providing a personalized touch is at the heart of my business, and communication plays a vital role in making that happen—especially through platforms like Facebook and in the local shop where my creations are displayed.
Facebook has been an invaluable tool for reaching out to potential customers and nurturing those relationships. I regularly post engaging content that showcases my latest macramé creations, offering inspiration and ideas for custom orders.
In addition to my online presence, I am fortunate to have a space in a local shop where my macramé art is showcased. This brick-and-mortar setting provides a unique opportunity for face-to-face interactions with customers. When someone walks through the door, I make it a priority to welcome them warmly and engage in conversation about their interests.
I’m excited to continue building these connections and making beautiful, bespoke macramé pieces that tell their stories!
We are in the age of TECH! I like to tell people that you don’t have to spend money to be supportive. There are other ways to help a business grow.
By going to ones social media page and engaging in posts is huge! Every time someone comments those posts are thrown in to an algorithm that pushes it out more often, meaning more pushes=more viewers.
Another way is to review and recommend a page or business. We are in the know era, everyone wants to know everything about a service, a place or a product and rightfully so. This way, prospected customers can plainly see those recommendations within just a couple clicks!
Sharing is by far my favorite way to support other artisans and local businesses. When you share their posts or page with all of your friends it widens their audience and when you see others have liked or engaged your job is done, it’s as easy as that.
Ok, I lied. Another one of my favorites is by sharing supplies with other local makers and artists. I have been blessed beyond words with a wonderful community that I can contact and they can contact me to swap or gift supplies, ultimately cutting back costs of projects!
Pricing:
- My pricing ranges per item. Depending on cost of supplies and the overall time of a project. From $10 for small pieces up $300 for large pieces. I make for every budget possible.
Contact Info:
