This past fall, Megan shared with me her vision for her new business endeavor - Shop Fresh Exchange - a carefully curated collection of goods produced ethically and locally that celebrate our land and how we live.

Inspired by the fresh start of a new year, I explored a looser and more energetic approach to this series.

Let me tell you, navigating this life of entrepreneurship can be a lonely road, and that’s how I felt when I first started out. I was figuring things out on my own with a LOT of trial and error.  

In one of my favorite business books – Principles by Ray Dalio – he teaches you that one of the most important things you can do in building your business (and just your personal growth for that matter) is to honestly identify your weaknesses. Once you know what you’re bad at, you will actually be more likely to achieve what you want!

I’ve identified what I don’t like doing, what I’m not good at, and what I’m not efficient at. Aside from spending more time painting, I also get to help other small businesses flourish. My graphic designer has become a friend in real life and the two of us have grown to support each other and our businesses in beautiful ways. What a gift.

I started looking away from what everyone else was doing and focusing on what I have always loved - nature, the lake, northern Michigan, cozy & welcoming homes, beautiful and ethical clothing… and from there both my painting style and brand have organically grown to where they are today.

In my business, I’m always marketing towards one person. This person loves taking care of our planet, they have a connection to the Great Lakes region, they dress in ethically & beautifully made clothing, they enjoy the slow pace of life, the small joys. Their home complements the love and life within it, and includes some nostalgic artwork that can be passed down through generations

When someone supports your work and purchases from you, they aren't just paying for your materials and your time. They are supporting your overhead costs, your vision, your taste, your time spent finding inspiration, your years of experience, your years of training. They are supporting you to live and stay healthy so you can continue practicing your talents.

Perhaps inspired by a touch of homesickness, I felt especially called to celebrate my favorite road home for the holidays this season - M22.

I recently had the opportunity to share a bit about my visions and inspirations with Juley of Trés Américain. I stumbled across Juley’s blog several months ago and was immediately taken by her effortless and classic style.

Including my 4 tips for seeking out and collaborating with other creative women.

For countless northern souls, the landscapes of rolling dunes, soft beneath your feet… the sounds of waves crashing rhythmically… or the October sun peering through golden leaves - that’s who you are. That’s what we are…

One of the coolest things about artwork, is that it doesn’t necessarily have to match a room! A cool piece of art can stand on it’s own. It also has the power to make a small room feel larger and a large room feel cozier.

In preparation for the “Lake Lovers” Collection launch, I wanted to share with you what you can expect.

 “Jack, one day you’re going to thank me for dragging you to the art museum. You’re going to find a nice girl, or boy, that you’re going to fall madly in love with and you will win her over with some culture and kindness….I swear to God, I’m going to fill you with some culture, if it’s the last thing I ever do.”

I have a busy mind – my ideas constantly buzz around distracting me, but The Lakes and painting never fails to steady me. They are a calming reminder that I’m not alone, and that there is someone/something way bigger than my 5’3” self to lean on and listen to…

Finally! Here it is – our Chicago apartment before and after. I know it’s several months late and I know we don’t live there anymore… but we adored this tiny space and I really wanted to document our first home together…

I don’t remember my first art experience. Not because it was non-significant, but because art has been in my life from the beginning. My mom has her BFA from Michigan State University, and after graduating she started teaching K-12 art in schools. While teaching, she became pregnant with me, so I literally have been learning about art since before I can remember...