2024 A Year In Review

Reflecting on 2024: My First Full Year as a Self-Employed Artist

As someone who’s never been big on New Year’s resolutions or year-end recaps, it feels a little strange to sit down and write this. But 2024 was a milestone year for me: my first full year as a self-employed artist. The journey has been equal parts challenging, rewarding, and surreal, and it only feels right to reflect on how far I’ve come.

Stepping Into Self-Employment

When I unexpectedly transitioned to full-time self-employment in October 2023, I wasn’t exactly prepared. Stability is something I’ve always valued, and while I knew this was an eventual goal, the timing caught me off guard. Still, I leaned into the opportunity, determined to make it work.

Now, a year later, I’m blown away by how much has happened and how much my business has grown. Here’s a look at some of the highlights from 2024:

Business Growth in 2024

1. Expanding My Reach Through Markets

This year, I participated in 26 art markets, including four in cities I had never shown in before. Connecting with new audiences and sharing my work in person has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.

2. Launching My Wholesale Shop

Getting my wholesale shop off the ground was a major milestone. I’m thrilled to say that my work is now carried by 8 different retailers, including three stores in other states. Seeing my designs on shelves outside my local area has been a surreal experience.

3. Success With Greeting Cards

I leaned heavily into designing greeting cards this year, and they quickly became my best sellers. This focus even led me to join the Greeting Card Association, and who knows? A Louie Award might be in the cards (pun intended) for 2025.

4. Exploring New Product Categories

This year, I experimented with new product categories, creating tote bags and hats. Seeing people out in the world wearing and using items I’ve designed has been so rewarding and has opened up exciting possibilities for the future of my brand.

5. A Website Glow-Up

My website got a refresh this year, and the results have been incredible. I’m proud to say that traffic increased by 80%, and my e-commerce sales doubled compared to last year. It’s amazing to see how much a thoughtful update can transform the online shopping experience for my customers.

Exciting Collaborations and Projects

The Print Shop ATL

One of the most exciting moments of 2024 was collaborating with The Print Shop ATL. They now carry one of my photographs in their store, marking a new chapter in my artistic journey. Having my photography featured alongside so many talented creators is a milestone I’ll never forget.

My First Big Freelance Project

I also took on my first major freelance project this year, which has been a huge step forward both creatively and professionally. While I can’t share all the details just yet, I’m thrilled for this project to come to life in 2025.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

This year has been a whirlwind, but none of it would be possible without the support of my community. To everyone who has encouraged me, bought my work, shared kind words, or simply listened to my endless ideas—thank you. Your support has made this journey what it is, and I’m endlessly grateful.

As I look ahead to 2025, I’m more inspired than ever. If there’s one thing I’ve learned this year, it’s that my drive and passion are taking me exactly where I want to go. And we’re just getting started.

Here’s to another year of creativity, growth, and making it happen. Let’s see where 2025 takes us!

The Holiday Hustle: Markets, Adventures, and Cozy Weather Vibes

The holiday market season is flying by, and I can hardly believe it—only three markets left before we wrap it all up! Last weekend, I had the absolute best time in Cincinnati, OH, debuting my work with the Crafty Supermarket Holiday Market. It was my first time selling at this incredible handmade artisan fair, and let me tell you—it did not disappoint! The energy, the people, and the local love were incredible.

Beyond the market, I explored some of Cincinnati’s best local shops, indulged in delicious foodie favorites (hello, chili weather!), and bundled up for the brisk Ohio winter. It’s such a joy to see new cities through the lens of local art markets and creative communities.

This weekend, I’m heading to Asheville, NC, to pop up at The Big Crafty Holiday Market. This event is a highlight of the season for handmade goods, unique gifts, and cozy vibes that Asheville always brings. Then, it’s off to NYC for my final show of the season with Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn next weekend. I’m so excited to be part of this iconic event featuring handmade art, artisan crafts, and plenty of holiday gift ideas.

And don’t forget—my custom portrait orders close on December 9th! If you’re looking for a unique gift idea for Christmas or the holiday season, now’s the time to snag a spot. My custom illustrations make heartfelt, one-of-a-kind presents for loved ones, and there’s no better time to order.

If you’re in Asheville or New York City in the coming weeks, come say hi and check out my work in person! Here’s to celebrating handmade art, supporting small businesses, and soaking up the last bit of holiday market magic.

🎨 Cheers,
Carlee

holiday market season already????

Back from Hawaii and Ready to Create: Embracing a New Approach for the Busy Season

Back from Hawaii and starting to feel 100% again! The trip was a much-needed escape, filled with inspiration from the vibrant landscapes and rich culture. As I transition back into my routine, I’m reminded of how important it is to recharge and seek inspiration beyond my usual surroundings. Now, with 2.5 weeks of prep time before the busy season begins, I’m excited to share some updates about my art business and the changes I’m implementing this year.

After reflecting on last year’s whirlwind of pop-up events, I decided to cut back significantly on those appearances this holiday season. While I’ve always enjoyed connecting with customers face-to-face, the constant hustle can sometimes overshadow the creative process. for the remainder of This year, I want to focus on quality over quantity—both in my work and in the way I engage with my community.

What This Means for My Art

By reducing the number of pop-ups, I’ll have more time to dedicate to my artwork. I want to create pieces that resonate with you on a personal level, and I believe that giving myself this extra time will allow for that growth.

Preparing for the Busy Season

As I gear up for the upcoming season, I’m prioritizing my workflow to ensure that I’m not only productive but also enjoying the process. I’ve created a list of goals that include expanding my product range and enhancing my marketing strategies. This way, I can keep things fresh and exciting, both for me and for you!

Thank You for Your Support

I want to take a moment to express my gratitude to all of you who have supported my art journey. Whether you've purchased a piece, attended a pop-up, or simply shared my work with friends, your encouragement means the world to me. I’m excited to share more of my art and connect with you in meaningful ways.

Stay tuned for updates, and thank you for being part of this adventure! Here’s to a season filled with creativity, inspiration, and connection. Let’s make it a memorable one!

happy fall!

hellooooo 🌟

I’ve been a whirlwind of activity lately, and I’m excited to share all the festive hustle and bustle with you. With Christmas just around the corner (can you believe it?!), I’ve been knee-deep in crafting all sorts of cheerful items that I can’t wait to unveil!

Upcoming Markets: Let’s Celebrate! 🎉

Mark your calendars, because I have two exciting markets coming up where you can find me:

  1. Ecologie Fall Market
    🗓 Date: October 13
    📍 Location: Town Center Mall
    This market is going to be a fabulous celebration of fall! I’ll have a selection of new goodies, along with some seasonal items that will warm your heart. It’s a perfect chance to start your holiday shopping and support local artisans.

  2. The Benteen Park Festival
    🗓 Date: October 26
    🌳 Location: Benteen Park
    Join me for a day of fun, community, and creativity! This festival is all about celebrating the season and connecting with neighbors. I can’t wait to showcase my festive creations and share in the joy of the fall festivities with all of you!

A Well-Deserved Break 🏖️

After all the hustle and bustle of fall markets, I’ll be treating myself to a well-deserved vacation! I’m heading to Richmond, VA, for a little adventure, followed by some much-needed relaxation in Hawaii. 🌺✈️

I can’t wait to recharge and gather inspiration from the breathtaking scenery. Who knows what creative ideas might come to me while I’m lounging by the ocean?

Wrapping Up 🎁

So, there you have it! I’m juggling a lot, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. If you’re in the area, come visit me at the upcoming markets—I’d love to see your smiling faces! And if you need me after the 14th, I’ll be sipping coconut water in Hawaii, recharging for more festive fun!

Thanks for following along on this busy journey! Stay tuned for updates, and let’s make this holiday season unforgettable! 🎨❤️

Renegade wrap!

Wow, where do I even start? Selling art at Renegade Craft in Chicago was hands down the best market I’ve ever been a part of! Seriously, it was such an amazing experience that I’m still buzzing from it.

Let’s talk about the weather first—because, oh my gosh, it was perfect! The sun was shining, the skies were clear, and there was just the right amount of breeze to keep things comfortable. It felt like the weather gods were on our side, making everything that much better.

And then there were the customers. I’ve never met a group of people so enthusiastic and genuinely interested in art. Every conversation was a joy, and it was so rewarding to see people connect with my work. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love creating art and sharing it with others.

The whole vibe of the market was fantastic, too. The event was super well-organized, and it was awesome to be surrounded by so many talented artists. The energy was electric, and it felt like one big creative party where everyone was invited.

Overall, Renegade Craft Chicago was an absolute blast. It was everything I could have hoped for and more. Here’s hoping I get to experience this kind of magic again soon! 🌟

it's almost fall!?

As we tiptoe into the cozy vibes of faux-fall, I’m wrapping up my summer market tour with a bang! This weekend, I’m making my debut at the Grant Park Summer Shade Festival, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to set up shop amid the trees in one of my favorite Atlanta parks.

After that, I’m taking a short breather to gear up for my second Renegade Craft Show. This will be my first time showcasing my art in Chicago, and I’m beyond excited to be alongside so many incredibly talented artists.

I’ve got a few more markets on the horizon after Cumming Art Fest and Candler Park, and I’ll keep you posted as the dates draw nearer. Plus, I’m already diving into holiday show bookings (yes, really!) and eyeing some out-of-state adventures for November and December. Stay tuned for more updates!

Summer Markets coming to a close!

My last two scheduled markets for the summer are Athfest 6/21-23 in athens this coming weekend and BIG CRAFTY in Asheville 7/6-7/7. I’m so excited to make my art debut in asheville and meet all of y’all!

bizzzz-eeee!

Knocked out six markets in the last eight weeks with One full weekend all to myself 🤪

had a blast in phoenix, returned to summerhill with Gvg, first time popping up at the brookhaven cherry blossom festival where 90’s nostalgia performed on stage, back to slangin’ art in DC with unique markets aka where I first started regularly doing markets, rounded it out in acworth last weekend, and ended with my return to nashville selling with crafty bastards. I am tired, but so excited for this weekend off before I hop back into a few more local shows.

in more exciting news, i’ll be vending at big crafty in asheville for the first time this july.

spring, sprang, sprung!

tomorrow marks two months off of markets, and boy did I miss y’all! i’ve been spending the last two months organizing my spreadsheets and applying for spring/summer shows, working on new products, and expanding my wholesale outreach—i’ve got goods for sale in Montana!

kicking off this spring market season by attending my first market out west next weekend in Phoenix, az with PHXflea! to say i’m pumped would be an understatement.

enjoy a sneak peek at where i’ll be the next few weeks. still waiting on confirmation from the inman park festival 4/27-4/28.

that's a wrap.

special thanks to everyone who supported my small business this 2023 season. it makes me so so happy. can’t wait to see y’all in the spring :p

xo carlee

November Markets

I only have two markets booked for the month of November, and then I’ll rest for a bit before I round out the last few of the year in December.

I’ll be slanging art at Chomp and stomp in Atlanta on 11/4 for the first time

annnnnnnnnd i’ll be at my first renegade craft market in NYC 11/11-11/12!

FREAKING OUT ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY AND SO EXCITED TO MEET AND SEE EVERYONE THAT COMES THROUGH.

october markets right around the corner!

It’s about time I pulled double market duty this year! i’ll be popping up at Ecologie (one of my faves) AND in Greenville at the Hampton Pinckney porchfest for the first time. my last blog post notes that i will be at candler park fest which is on 9/30 + 10/1, so technically it’ll be my first october market. Mark your calendars!

September Markets

whoop whoop! to say I overdid it this year applying to markets would be an understatement :p i’ll continue to update this blog every few weeks with the next month of markets as soon as I have the flyers to share! stay tuned!

MIA

i’m on a lil summer break while it’s hot af outside. my next market is in Atlanta in september, but will post about it and other markets as the dates get closer. for now i’m busy working on commissions, restocking my inventory for fall/holiday, and traveling! here are some random photos from my recent adventures in NYc + portland, oregon. extra two days in NYC sponsored by delta.

Spring Markets

let’s hear it for spring market season! i’ll be popping up in acworth, kennesaw, suwanee, athens, and my first time with Community market. can’t wait to see y’all!

Motherlode Market 2/18

I’m making my 2023 spring Market debut a little earlier than I thought, but we are happy about it! Motherlode is one of my favorite thrift stores to wander through on any day, and i couldn’t be more excited to setup shop with many other talented folks in the area! come shop and get your valentines gifts ready for your lovers and friends! will have some new goodies for sale for the first time IRL! POSTPONED TO 2/18!

December Markets

here is My final list of market appearances!

  • Southern Brewing Co in athens Ga on 12/3 + 12/4

  • indie south in athens ga on 12/10 +12/11

  • va highlands winterfest in atlanta ga on 12/10

November market list

A lot of firsts this holiday!

  • I’m popping up at Crafty Bastards, a two-day event in Nashville, TN next weekend! come hangout and shop over 100+ vendors!

  • The following weekend, I will be back in Atlanta at my *favorite* Indie Craft Experience pop-ups for two days.

  • I’ve got my first Indie Craft Parade Mini Market happening in Greenville, SC on 11/19.