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, Krista is joined by Arielle and Zahabiyah, the founders of House of Color Needlepoint and the community behind Stitching in Color. 🪡✨

They share how an Instagram DM sparked a friendship that grew into a thriving community for stitchers of color, why they launched House of Color, and their mission to bring more representation and diversity to the needlepoint industry. From building a designer collective and growing a new business to creating meaningful spaces for connection, this conversation is full of inspiration, entrepreneurship, and heart.

Plus, they chat about launching their first collection, balancing business with life, the future of House of Color, and how we can all help make the needlepoint community more welcoming for everyone. 💙

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. ✨