Small Business Entrepreneur Focus: Nostalgic Graphic Tees

I have never really thought of myself as an entrepreneur.  I mean, I went to college, got a few degrees, got married, worked for a big company, had my children.  I kind of allowed life to take me down the well-traveled, safe path.  I’m not what you would call a risk-taker, so the thought of striking out on my own to create a business for myself centered around one of my passions NEVER crossed my mind.  Becoming a professional photographer wasn’t my childhood dream, but only perhaps because I didn’t dare dream that big.

Starting a business of one’s own is NOT for the faint of heart!  I went to school for a VERY long time, and never did I gain many of the skills I’ve had to pick up along the way to run a successful venture.  I joked with another friend/small business owner (you’ll get to meet her in February’s feature) just yesterday that “all I needed to know about running my own business I learned from Google.”  It’s not far from the truth; however, I am also blessed to be part of a network of moms who blazed the trail before me and have been invaluable to me in the creation and sustainability of my business.  I wanted to figure out a way to thank them for their guidance, as well as to support THEIR small business dreams.  That’s why I’ve decided to do a monthly feature on a small business owner in my circle of influence who I think deserves a little recognition.

Meet Elizabeth Horton, founder of Nostalgic Graphic Tees!  I met Elizabeth two years ago at the home of a mutual friend who was hosting a sip & see for Elizabeth’s beautiful and classically styled children’s garments – we have been working together ever since 🙂  Personally, I adore the yummy-soft fabrics and darling silhouettes incorporated into her every design.  I love her creative ideas and am always so excited to preview her newest artistic visions.

When I asked Elizabeth to tell me about why she created Nostalgic Graphic Tees, she said:

“While working as a commercial graphic designer, I became inspired by my own children to branch out into clothing designs for kids. Seeing my children grow and develop their imaginations made me feel nostalgic of some of my own childhood memories. I remembered the joy in picking a flower, balancing on a see saw, twirling in a tutu, catching that first firefly of the summer, blowing bubbles, fishing in Grandaddy’s pond, catching a crab on the edge of a dock, coasting on a scooter. I loved reliving those simple moments with my own family and wanted to capture them on clothing that is comfortable, unique, timeless, and age appropriate.

I also became interested in the handmade movement. I’m more conscious of what I buy and try very hard to buy things that come from a person…another mom, just like me…rather than something mass-produced in a foreign factory. All of my design ideas and printed pieces are created by hand in South Carolina. As a company, I strive to partner with other mom-based businesses and contribute to local organizations that help children (Charleston County School District, March of Dimes, Lowcountry Orphan Relief, Missions for Megan, Art for Charity, ECCO).”

To explore more of Elizabeth’s darling creations, click to her Etsy store HERE.  For being a Christine Hamrick Photography fan, Elizabeth is offering a 15% coupon (use code CHP13) to use throughout the month of January 2013.

Delightful all-season styling for boys and girls . . .

Including sweet seasonal additions for the holidays . . . She even carries the sweetest, softest infant sleepers and toddler rompers, too!