Mackenzie - Owner of Itty Bitty

Starting Itty Bitty Company back in October 2023 has been such a whirlwind, filled with so many learning curves and unexpected joys. It all began with a passion for creating unique items, from those cozy t-shirts and sweatshirts to fun car air fresheners and coasters. There’s something so rewarding about bringing an idea to life, whether it’s a custom design for a friend or a new item that just sparks joy for someone else. I love the process of picking out fabrics, designing graphics, and seeing the final product ready to go to a new home. It’s truly a creative escape for me. Juggling this creative outlet with my full-time role in sales at a local State Farm agency can be a challenge, but it's a labor of love. Every evening and weekend crafting feels like a mini-retreat, a chance to pour my energy into something truly my own. It’s not always glamorous – sometimes it’s late nights and early mornings – but the passion keeps me going. It’s amazing how much you can accomplish when you’re doing something you genuinely love, even if it is just a side hustle for now. My boyfriend, Bailey, is my biggest supporter, always there for a sounding board or to help with market setups. We’ve been together for 3.5 years, and he’s seen the Itty Bitty dream grow from just an idea. And then there's Gunner, our golden retriever, who’s often my furry supervisor from the back of the utility vehicle or just keeping me company while I'm working on designs. He’s such a character, always ready for an adventure, even if it’s just a ride in the truck past the local landmarks of Dawsonville. I recently caught myself taking a quick mirror selfie in the bathroom, noticing my red nail polish contrasted with my light-colored sweater – just a small moment of peace in a busy day. Building a community around Itty Bitty Company, both on Facebook and Instagram (@ittybittycompany), has been incredible. And now, exploring Lemon8 feels like a fresh start. I’m excited to share more behind-the-scenes glimpses of my crafting process, quick peeks into my daily life with Bailey and Gunner – maybe even some snaps of us enjoying an outdoor selfie, perhaps with me in my green turtleneck sweater and Bailey wearing his dark cap, exploring the beauty of Georgia. It’s truly a space where I can connect with others who appreciate handmade goods and the journey of a small business owner. The prospect of what this platform holds, especially with the uncertainties around other social media, is genuinely exciting. I'm looking forward to sharing more of my 'POV' – my experiences as a business owner, a partner, and a dog mom, trying to make my mark one cozy t-shirt or air freshener at a time. What are your favorite small business finds?