We had the good fortune of connecting with Courtney Rietman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Courtney, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I had just transitioned to being a stay at home mom of two under two. I left my career of 8 years where I had worked my way up into a management role where I oversaw 17 people. I had a lot of responsibility and while that was tough, it was fulfilling because I had worked so hard to get there. But suddenly, I had a different need for me at home that I never expected to feel when I had children. I never envisioned myself as a stay at home mom. And although I was making the decision I felt was best for my children, I didn’t feel it was best for me. So after a few months at home with a one and a half year old and very tough newborn, I was struggling. I decided I needed to find some type of outlet. I wanted something I could enjoy, kept me busy, but not married to it, and a way to make a little extra money. From there, Sweet Pie’s Design Co. was born. I started crafting faux leather earrings. Now, I offer those along with wood bead earrings, hair bows and clips for girls, and newly, little guy bow ties. I attend vendors events with my creations as well as sell at 3 retail locations.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I do not feel I’ve had any major setbacks since starting my own small business. I have been a lucky one. I have great support from my family and have thankfully had success in what I’ve wanted to do. It is the perfect creative outlet for me to have my own thing, separate from my husband and children, but allows me to be home. I can start and stop when needed.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My husband, Jeff, for always going along with my ideas. For supporting me, for telling me to go for it, and for never holding me back.

My mom, Karen, for caring for my most prized possessions, my children, when I can’t be home.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetpiesdesignco?mibextid=LQQJ4d

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