The Garden Next Door, a book I illustrated is being sold at 2 major retail stores, and it’s blowing my mind!
I'm having to pinch myself because I've been dreaming of this for over ten years and it’s been a long, difficult journey to get here.
I learned the hard way that the children’s book publishing world is very competitive. I went to school for illustration but after graduating, I was only met with rejections. I was forced to refocus my efforts and pursue a career in graphic design. I was very fortunate to find work designing greeting cards and gift wrap. I am so grateful for every chapter of my journey so far but I quickly learned that I didn’t want to work in the corporate world forever.
When I finally decided to open an Etsy shop, it was like something inside me had been unlocked. For the first time, I felt like I had taken the wheel. On nights and weekends, I designed new products, and to my surprise, people actually bought them! Eventually I felt comfortable leaving my design job to pursue my printable business full-time.
After about 5 years, my Etsy shop was fully supporting me. It still blows my mind! I saw this as an opportunity to pursue my original dream to illustrate children’s books again. While my printables sold in the background, I took online classes in illustration including the Make Art That Sells children’s book illustration course and the Illustration Department’s 3 month mentorship with (brilliant!) retired art director, Giuseppe Castellano. I spent 6 months rebuilding my portfolio from scratch. I still faced many heartbreaking rejections but thanks to my reliable Etsy sales, I kept at it and eventually signed with my dream agent!
So, I need to thank you, my awesome Etsy customers for supporting my little shop. Illustrating children's books is hard but fulfilling work for me. Ten years ago, when I made it my goal to have one of my books for sale in Barnes, it felt like a pipe dream.
. . . but here I am! 🥲
❤️Seriously, Thank you!
If you would like to preorder The Garden Next Door, you can do so at Barnes & Noble, Target, Indie Bound, or Bookshop.org (Ships October 2022!) Shares are also GREATLY appreciated!
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