Inspirational Interview- Jessica Fediw

The woman in the picture here is unbelievably talented. When I first found her blog, I was overcome with her ability to craft and to re-shape and transform the ordinary into the extraordinary... An old tee-shirt made into a darling dress,seriously?  To be honest, she had me completely hooked with her Rag Quilt Letters, which are still just about the cutest thing I have ever seen. I love the simple instructions and tutorials that she provides her readers with and the feeling of encouragement that she brings to the screen. I am more than happy to introduce you to Jessica Fediw, the amazing mind behind Oh So Happy Together and Happy Together; Handmade and Upcycled. Eat your heart out...

1. How did you choose the name of your business and or blog? 

 It is a bit of a combination of things, so here is the list: 
1. My family and I are happy 

together. We have been separated a bit with my husband being in the military, so we really cherish the time we spend together. 

2. I am happy together with my crafts  
3. I want customers to be happy with the products I make. 

2. What inspires you? 

So many things! I love looking at various websites like Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, European clothing designers, Style.com, Burda Style, Craftster, etc. I also get magazines when I can. I follow a ton of creative blogs and browse Flickr quite a bit too. There’s so much creativity out there, it’s unreal. 

3. Favorite day of the week/why? 

Saturday! This is because my husband, me, and our daughter spend the whole day together doing fun things. It’s the best. 

4. Greatest influence? 

Hmm…..I would have to say my daughter. She inspires me to do a ton of what I do. I work hard at taking care of my family and house because of her (and my husband too of course ;). I also am inspired to create things that she will love.  

5. Earliest childhood memory? 

I remember spending a lot of time at my grandparents house. They lived on the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia, so they taught me how to fish, crab, work in the garden, and more. My grandpa was a wood carver, so I learned a lot from him in that area. My grandma taught me how to crochet and a bit of sewing. I wish I could travel back in time and take my daughter to that time so she could enjoy it and know my late grandpa. 

6. When did you know that you were ready to embark on creating your own business? 

It was about 2 years ago. I really loved creating things, but you need money to do that. So, I figured if I could make things, have fun doing it, and then sell it I could continue on with even more. 

7. When was the last time that you laughed until your belly hurt? 

My daughter is at that wonderful age where she says the funniest things. The other day my husband asked her what makes her so beautiful and she said “CAKE!” What an answer. 
8. When is the last time that you cried? The other day when I was watching the 9-11 memorial programs on the news. It made me rethink about all that happened; about those who gave their lives and all the sacrifices people made; about how great our country is; about How good and amazing God is. 

9. How old were you when you gave birth to your first child? 

I was 23 years old. 

10. Everyday must have? 

Sweet Iced Tea! I’m an addict I tell ya. 

11. Most treasured item? 

My engagement ring. It means so much to me. 

12. Hopes for your future in both business and your personal life? 

I hope to be a bit more consistent with making things for my shop. I am in the works of creating some patterns that I want to put up in my shop as well. For life, there is so much. I just hope we all stay healthy and happy the most though.  

13. Advise for others who might be contemplating following their dreams? 

Just go for it! The hardest step is the first step. Then keep going. I know I wasn’t able to do the best with blog design, pictures of products, etc. at the beginning, but I started my craft journey anyways. I just kept learning and applying what I learned and I can see how far I have come. Others will see that too and respect it. It will be encouraging as well. 

14. Chocolate... Dark, Light or white? 

I have to say light! And boy, it’s one of my downfalls. 

15. Middle name? 

Lynne 

16. How has motherhood changed your life? 

I have learned I am a lot stronger than I thought I was. I look back and can’t believe some of the things we’ve gone through and made it through. My daughter is a blessing and continues to teach me as I teach her. I look forward to watching her grow up and being there for her along the way.