In the inaugural episode of the Penny Linn Podcast, Krista shares her journey of starting and growing her needlepoint business, Penny Linn. From the initial idea to the challenges faced during the pandemic, she discusses the milestones achieved, including a million-dollar month and successful collaborations with brands like Tootsie and Eric Carle. Krista reflects on the impact of social media on sales, the importance of her team, and her aspirations for the future of Penny Linn.

Takeaways:

• Krista's journey into podcasting began with a desire to share more than just short clips.
• Penny Linn started as an online store during the pandemic and has grown significantly since.
• The business celebrated its five-year anniversary with major milestones, including a million-dollar month.
• Advent boxes have become a popular seasonal product, selling out quickly each year.
• Collaborations with brands like Tootsie and Eric Carle are expanding Penny Linn's offerings.
• Social media, particularly TikTok, has played a crucial role in increasing sales and visibility.
• The importance of customer feedback in product development is emphasized.
• Krista's personal experiences, including challenges during pregnancy, have shaped her business journey.
• The team at Penny Linn is described as passionate and dedicated, contributing to the company's success.
• Future plans include expanding the business and possibly opening a second store.

This week on the Penny Linn Podcast, we're joined by Missy of Classically Missy — Collective designer, mom of three, and one of the sweetest voices in the needlepoint community. 💙🪡

Krista and Missy chat about how a move to West Texas and a love of creativity led her to discover needlepoint, what it was like stitching before the hobby exploded online, and how she made the leap from stitcher to designer. They also talk about balancing a full-time job, motherhood, and designing, why local needlepoint shops are so important to growing the community, and the inspiration behind some of Missy's newest canvases.

Plus, Missy shares a sneak peek at upcoming designs, including the much-anticipated pumpkin canvas, travel-inspired pieces, faith-based designs, and more. Whether you're dreaming up your next project or simply love hearing the stories behind your favorite designers, this episode is one you won't want to miss. ✨

This week on the Penny Linn Podcast, Krista kicks things off with a solo update on the highly anticipated Eric Carle collection launch, plus a candid conversation about the current state of the needlepoint industry. From production timelines and growing demand to what’s happening behind the scenes with canvases, she shares an insider look at the challenges and excitement shaping the industry right now.

Then, Krista is joined by new Collective designer Mackensie of Bloom & Stitch to celebrate her launch Friday, June 5th at 12 PM ET! 🌸🪡 Mackensie walks through the inspiration behind the collection, her design process, and the stories behind some of her favorite pieces. It’s a fun conversation about creativity, building a brand, and bringing fresh new designs to the needlepoint community.