Began selling artwork on Etsy on her 18th birthday.
Initially sold hand-painted canvas art.
Explored various products: wood, trays, water bottles (with Cricut), stickers, ring dishes.
Etsy shop was a side gig during college (Loyola Chicago) while majoring in Political Science and History.
Early Phases
Etsy experiments included custom orders, quotes, various designs, and different art forms.
Started selling stickers in junior year of college.
Obtained an iPad through a research stipend which played a crucial role in designing stickers.
First popular sticker: RBG quote "Women belong in all places where decisions are being made."
Gaining Popularity
Summer before senior year: Ran Etsy shop more full-time, including crafting fairs at local cafes.
Instagram became a key marketing and engagement platform despite initial reluctance to use social media.
Scaling Up
Wholesale Requests: Began selling stickers wholesale on Etsy and applied to sell on Fair (a wholesale platform).
Rejection from Fair initially, but later accepted after showing demand for sticker brands.
Intense period of balancing law school and growing business until the pandemic hit.
Pandemic: Shifted to online law school which eased the workload and allowed more focus on the business. Started using TikTok with viral success.
Viral Success and Crafting Business Strategy
Viral TikTok moments, especially the black floral design, led to notable sales boosts.
Considered dropping out of law school but decided to manage both commitments.
Realized potential to match law firm income with her burgeoning art business.
Expansion and Workforce
By December 2020, outgrew home workspace and moved to an office.
Signed a 2-year lease for 1,000 sq ft office and hired part-time employees.
Faced challenges like misprints but had viral success with products such as notebooks and planners.
Milestones and Media Features
Grew business significantly from 2020 to 2022.
Featured on The Today Show during final law school days.
Graduated from law school, moved to a larger office, and expanded team significantly.
Launched Millan Meadow.
Got married in 2022.
Reflection and Future Plans
Plans to share major takeaways, lessons, and tips in part two of the series.
Encourages viewers to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights.
Conclusion
The journey from a humble Etsy shop to a multi-million dollar business involved hard work, strategic decisions, and leveraging social media for growth.