Christina and Ashbear Prints

Written By Editors

Printing has a long history in the art world and with the technology that is available today, standing out as a print artist is tough. Yet I am always amazed at how some business owners set themselves apart, and Christina is one of those talented people who manages to do that. Christina has a wonderfully positive outlook (probably why the business is thriving) and, as I found when I was speaking with her at the booth, she has a wealth of knowledge to share:

Can you briefly describe what your business does?

Ashbear is an online store that offers whimsical, thoughtfully designed home goods and accessories inspired by my Shiba Inu, Ash. I sell a range of products including enamel pins, lanyards, washi tape, mouse pads, desk mats, drink coasters, hair scrunchies, and stickers. Our designs are a celebration of joy, creativity, and the special bond we share with our pets.

So, where did this idea come from?

I spent nearly a decade working in the video game and entertainment industry, where I wore many hats—graphic design, operations, merchandise, marketing, events, and management. This diverse experience gradually equipped me with the skills and confidence needed to launch my own shop.

Through my work, I discovered that my true passion lies in graphic design and creating merchandise that people can connect with on a personal level. When I began considering my own brand, it was clear to me that I wanted to focus on the themes of self-expression and authenticity. My goal is to create products that not only reflect my creativity but also allow customers to express their own unique identities.

Ashbear is a manifestation of that vision, blending my love for design with a commitment to delivering meaningful, high-quality products.

Can you describe your typical work day?

I started working from home during the lockdown, like many others, and quickly realized that this lifestyle really suited me. It allowed me to easily transition from my remote job to establishing my own company, Ashbear, from the comfort of home with a strong online presence.

My workday revolves around managing every aspect of the business—designing new products, handling customer interactions, and planning future collections. My husband plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role, assisting with logistics and operations, while our Shiba Inu, Ash, serves as both our mascot and daily inspiration.

My workspace is a cozy, creative space filled with design tools, prototypes, and, of course, Ash’s favorite napping spots. We’re currently in the process of relocating from California to the Pacific Northwest, and we’re excited to take Ashbear on the road with us, continuing to grow the business while embracing new surroundings.

What is your best selling product?

Our best-selling item so far has been the Sweet Beans drink coaster set, which features four vibrant colors of our paw print cookie design. Priced at $25.00, this coaster set has quickly become a favorite among our customers.

I believe it's a best seller because it perfectly captures the playful and unique aesthetic that Ashbear is known for, while also being a practical and charming addition to any home. This item is part of our "Sweet Beans" collection, which resonates with customers who love whimsical and fun designs.

What do you think sets you apart from other printers?

Ashbear stands out by combining personal storytelling with whimsical design. The brand is inspired by my Shiba Inu, Ash, who not only serves as the mascot but also embodies the playful, authentic spirit of our products. The uniqueness of Ashbear lies in its deeply personal connection to my own life and experiences. The designs are not just visually appealing but also tell a story, making them more than just products—they're pieces of art that carry meaning.

Our collections—Ashbear, Sweet Beans, and Sprinkles—each have their own distinct personality, offering something special for everyone. Additionally, I prioritize using high-quality materials and producing small-batch items, giving customers a sense of exclusivity and specialness when they shop with us. The artist-run accessory and home goods industry is vibrant and full of creativity, with many talented creators offering unique products.

The competition is fierce, especially with the rise in popularity of small businesses and handmade goods. Many brands have established loyal followings, so it's essential to stay innovative and connected with customers. I compete by offering a distinctive style that is true to my brand’s story, fostering a community around shared interests, and consistently delivering high-quality, thoughtfully designed products.

Customers can expect a growing range of products that are both functional and delightful. I am continually working on new designs and expanding our collections to include items that bring joy and a touch of whimsy to any space or outfit. Beyond the products, customers can look forward to a warm, personal experience when they shop with Ashbear.

Every aspect, from packaging to customer service, is designed to reflect the care and attention to detail that defines the brand. Additionally, I am committed to engaging with my community through social media and events, offering opportunities for customers to connect with the brand on a deeper level.

How is social media important to your business?

Social media is a crucial part of Ashbear’s marketing strategy and overall business growth. It allows me to connect directly with my audience, share the story behind my brand, and showcase new products in a visually engaging way.

Platforms like Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) are particularly important for my business because they allow for both visual storytelling and direct interaction with my audience. Instagram helps me build a community around the brand, while X provides a platform for engaging conversations and real-time updates.

I primarily use Instagram and X for Ashbear, as these platforms allow me to visually present my products and engage with my target audience. Instagram is my go-to for sharing new designs, behind-the-scenes content, and interacting with followers through stories and posts.

X is great for real-time updates, engaging with customers, and participating in broader conversations within the creative and small business communities. I also maintain a presence on Facebook, which helps reach a broader audience, and I'm exploring LinkedIn for potential business collaborations and networking opportunities.

I produce content by combining professional photography with graphic design, ensuring that each post aligns with the brand’s aesthetic and messaging. I often use natural light and simple setups to highlight the details of my products. Additionally, I create themed posts around collections, seasonal promotions, or behind-the-scenes glimpses to keep the content fresh and engaging.

Planning and consistency are key, so I schedule posts in advance while leaving room for spontaneous content that resonates with my audience.

What are your thoughts on working with computers?

I primarily work with a Mac as my desktop, and occasionally use my iPad for on-the-go tasks. The Mac environment suits my design work perfectly, allowing me to create custom ads and marketing materials with the tools I’m most comfortable with. Whether I’m designing new product layouts or crafting eye-catching social media posts, having a reliable and intuitive setup is crucial.

For other small business owners, I’d recommend choosing the platform that feels most intuitive to you, whether it’s Mac, PC, or even a tablet. The key is to find tools that allow you to work efficiently and creatively.

Your thoughts regarding outsourcing work: As I’m just getting started, I manage everything on my own, from website updates to social media management and bookkeeping. However, I’m fortunate to have my husband as my IT guy—he has a software engineering degree and a strong interest in AI. He’s been instrumental in helping me understand the latest AI tools and how to integrate them into my workflow to grow the brand efficiently without compromising the integrity of artists.

While I currently handle most tasks myself, I’m always open to exploring tools and methods that can streamline my processes and allow me to focus more on the creative side of the business. As the business grows, I may consider outsourcing certain tasks, but for now, it's all about learning and adapting.

How do you manage customer retention and Email mailing lists?

Currently, I use Shopify to manage my customers, track sales, and organize contacts. Shopify provides an integrated platform that makes it easy to keep everything in one place. I plan to use Mailchimp in the future to build and manage my email mailing lists, allowing me to stay connected with my customers and share updates about new products and special promotions.

At the moment, I’m not using additional tools like social media managers, but as the business grows, I’m open to exploring these options. For others just starting out, I’d recommend focusing on a few key tools that can help streamline your processes and then expanding your toolkit as needed. Shopify and Mailchimp are great starting points for managing customer relationships and communications.

How do you balance work and personal time?

This can be a challenge, especially when you're passionate about your business. I aim to make Ashbear my main income source in the future, so I’m focused on growing it while working part-time. To manage my time effectively, I prioritize tasks and set clear boundaries between work and personal time. This helps me stay productive while also ensuring I have time to recharge.

When it comes to tools, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are my go-to choices for design work, and I use them extensively to create and refine my products. For time management, I rely on simple strategies like setting specific goals for each day and taking breaks when needed. Learning new skills and staying updated is also important, so I carve out time each week to explore new design techniques or tools that can help me improve and grow my business.

What are your thoughts regarding the environment, social issues, and being a partner to the community?

While I’m still green in business management, I strive to excel in areas related to environmental and social responsibility. I’m mindful of the impact my business has on the environment and the importance of supporting diversity and community initiatives. As I continue to grow Ashbear, I’m committed to incorporating more sustainable practices and fostering an inclusive brand.

For other business owners, I recommend starting with small, manageable steps that align with your values. Whether it’s sourcing eco-friendly materials or supporting local causes, these efforts not only contribute to a better world but also build trust and loyalty with your customers.

It’s about finding the balance that works for your business and making steady progress towards your goals.

What is the outlook for the future or your business?

The artist-run business industry is amazing, and I’m excited to immerse myself fully in it. I see a vibrant community where creativity and passion drive growth, and I want Ashbear to be a part of that. My goal is to grow my business by attending events and conventions, connecting with like-minded individuals, and slowly building a loyal fan base.

In 5 to 10 years, I hope to see Ashbear evolve into a well-loved brand with a strong community of supporters. Success for me is about the journey—watching my company grow, meeting people who resonate with the brand, and seeing how far we can go together. It’s about staying true to my vision while exploring new opportunities and challenges along the way.

Do you have any final thoughts for the readers?

For anyone just starting out, I’d say this: keep your dream in focus. It’s easy to get sidetracked or feel overwhelmed, but remember that every big accomplishment starts with small, manageable steps. Break down your tasks into bite-size pieces, and tackle them one day at a time.

This approach not only helps you stay on track but also builds a strong sense of accomplishment as you see your progress. Stay persistent, stay true to your vision, and trust the process—it can lead to incredible outcomes. 

Where can people find you online?

That’s easy:

Editors
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Rene Everling and her Amazing 3D Printed Figurines