Rising Stars: Meet Emily McCarthy

Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily McCarthy.

Emily, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My creative journey began over 20 years ago in the stationery and gift industry. After launching the brand online as a personalization shoppe, I opened the doors of the brick and mortar six years ago. My inspiration for product design came from studying vintage lettering and engravings. These inspirations helped create our signature brand for personalized products. Over time, I introduced signature prints in linens, paper products and entertaining. In Fall of 2019, I launched the first clothing collection featuring these one-of-a kind prints. Today, our clothing collection is in hundreds of retailers across the country. My creative journey continues daily as I design new prints and styles for the collection.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
For the most part, everything has been smooth sailing which is something I’m immensely grateful for. COVID was a tricky time as we had just launched our first collection for retailers only to have orders canceled as stores were shut down. We tried selling through inventory direct to consumer for two years but recently decided to turn lemons into lemonade by donating the pieces to Dress for Success – hoping to spread joy to women starting their careers.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a graphic designer by trade hence the studies and design direction of our signature prints. It’s important to me that our brand has a unique look to our products – less generic, more custom in nature.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
As the business has transitioned between products and services, I have learned that pivoting is okay. As a creative, I’m often challenged to think outside the box. Not becoming complacent in nature with my designs and trying new approaches to the process.

Contact Info:

• Email: hello@emilymccarthy.com
• Website: www.emilymccarthy.com
• Instagram: @emilymccarthyshoppe or @emilymccarthycollection
• Facebook: @emilymccarthyshoppe

Image Credits
Kelli Boyd Photography