Meet Brenda Coone of MsCraftprincess Designs in Prattville

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brenda Coone.

Brenda, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started paper crafting in 1993. I am an avid scrapbooker. I still scrapbook when my husband and I return from a trip. I use scrapbooks to chronicle our adventures. I have always loved giving family and friends greeting cards. In 1995, I took a cardmaking class and was hooked. You see, I could not find cards with images that looked like my community. Additionally, I wasn’t always pleased with the sentiments. So I would purchase cards and alter them. It just made sense to begin making my own greeting cards.

I retired from a 31-year career in December 2018. After doing some traveling, I was encouraged to begin selling my greeting cards. After much prayer, I purchased the required licenses and started MsCraftprincess Designs LLC on September 1, 2019. Helping people celebrate special occasions in their lives with handcrafted greeting cards is what I do. Whether it’s birthdays, anniversaries, new babies, first communions, baptisms, etc. I love creating custom cards. My tag line is, “Giving a handcrafted greeting card is like giving a hug!” I sincerely believe that.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Entrepreneurship is not easy. Not only did I start my business in September 2019, but I also joined social media. Whenever I tell folks that they chuckle, but it’s true. So I am learning how to run a successful business while learning Instagram and Facebook. It’s been a challenge, but I pride myself on being a lifelong learner. Getting exposure for my business has been my biggest challenge. The exposure and business are both increasing a bit. While I am not where I want to be long term, I am very proud of the strides I have made thus far.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about MsCraftprincess Designs – what should we know?
I make handcrafted greeting cards for all occasions. There are numerous designs available for purchase on my website. Additionally, I work with customers to design the perfect card.

I am proud of the cards I produce. It thrills me when customers state how much they love their purchases and that the ultimate recipients loved them also. I permit personalization of inside sentiments for many of the designs on my website. I also offer the option to mail the cards to the recipient for orders of 4 cards or less (for a nominal fee). This eliminates the need for the purchaser to pay shipping costs to receive the cards then purchase stamps to mail them. This has been very popular with my customers.

Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My husband, Danny has been my biggest supporter/cheerleader. Occasionally, he will draw images for me to use for my cards. I wouldn’t be successful on this journey without him.

My parents and my siblings Faye, James, and Elizabeth have always believed in my ability to turn my passion into a business, even when I harbored doubts. Last, but certainly not least, is my wonderful friend Ruby P. Smith.  She is a cheerleader, sounding board, and encourager.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mscraftprincessdesigns.com
• Phone: 334-322-012
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/mscraftprincess
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/mscraftprincess
• Other: www.etsy.com/shop/MsCraftprincessDesig

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