Grace, Idaho | Mikenna Atkinson Photography & Design | Small Business Brands

  Post Intro: Regardless of where we go, my oldest daughter finds a friend, especially at the park. What if adults were like that? What if rather than fear all our flaws we just went out and embraced the other humans walking around this world with us? My dad is one of those humans. You’d be in a grocery store line and he’d have a way to strike up a conversation with someone by saying something sarcastic. I was so embarrassed as a kid, and now I find myself doing it. I have to admit, I love to see people let their walls down and engage in a lighthearted conversation. Have you ever seen ‘You’ve Got Mail,’ it’s a favorite of mine. In one of her emails, Kathleen Kelly says “I like to start my messages to you as if we are the oldest and dearest friends rather than *in my own words* strangers.” If can get to that point in a conversation, then I’m in my happy place! Other times, I feel just as shy as I was in elementary and would rather crawl under a rock and hide than to introduce myself. 

Kristyn and Sheldon moved into our ward (our church congregation), and of course, the case of the shy-crawl-under-a-rock crept in. I was in my comfort zone to drop off a treat, but for some reason, I was having a hard time allowing myself to connect in a genuine way.  I kept thinking about how creative and talented she was. It just seemed like anything I could do for her would seem weak, or thoughtless. Saying that out loud really does sound ridiculous, but I battle that just as much as anyone else.  So, the connection wasn’t feeling sincere. Then a shift happened. I reached out to Kristyn to see if she would like to participate in the boutique we hosted last fall, and she agreed. While there I chatted with her a few times, and then once everything was said and done I felt like I had made a new friend. This time, it was genuine. The next step, getting together for a little ‘brand photoshoot’ seemed to solidify how much I enjoy her thoughts and conversation. She is very talented and has many things she is good at, but just like a normal human, she continues to refine and practice her craft and it really does show.  Let me introduce you to my friend Kristyn so you can love her as much as I do! 

Kristyn is the creator of Kristyn’s Craftroom and to get you started, here are a few things you should probably know about her:

• Kristyn uses just about every art medium you can think of both digitally, and hands-on.

• She has a dog named Koda and a daughter named Chloe

• In her spare time, she enjoys all things crafty (of course) but also loves to be outdoors exploring hiking trails. You can bet she’ll find a flower or two along for a little future inspiration! 

• Kristyn went to school to be a teacher, graduated, and is ready to teach, but let’s face it, crafting is pretty addicting! 😉 She is now a certified craft teacher for her daughter Chloe!

• Rainbows are her jam. Whether she sees the lineup of fabric all color coordinated, or maybe it’s a cute rainbow sticker, rug, you name it, she loves them. You’ll probably figure that out pretty quickly if you check out her Facebook or Instagram. 

• If you’re hungry, stop by her craft room, there’s a good snack or two to satisfy your cravings ;).

• Lastly, she loves to set up at craft shows, boutiques, and markets. So next time you see her, make sure to say hi! But if you need something sooner, she’s got a cute little shop set up at her house too I’m sure she’d love to let you check it out!

This shoot was a fun one. Seeing someone’s brand behind the scenes is always exciting and eye-opening. It’s a good reminder of how much goes into a product or service before it ever hits the market! Head over to her Etsy and see just a snapshot of her creativity including jewelry, stickers, stationary, and packaging! Thank you Kristyn for the stickers, the fantastic pens (ya’ll should get yourself a pack), and being my go-to for all things creative! Also thank you for being patient with me as I learn how to make a new friend ;).

-Mikenna

XOXOXOXO

Kristyn’s Craftroom Etsy Shop