Carlisle business draws people together through art, crafts

Rachel Moyer

Business Name: Happy Go Creative

Years in business: 1 1/2 years

Location: 2 E. Liberty Ave., Carlisle

Contact: happygocreative.com

Q: Why did you want to start this kind of business?

A: Happy Go Creative is a small arts and crafts studio, nestled in the lovely downtown Carlisle. We focus on beginner-level art/craft-marking and relationship-building events. Since I was a little girl, I’ve always been into craft making, and now as an adult, my life is filled with DIY projects.

I opened Happy Go Creative not only because I think it’s fun to create, but because I see the power that art-making has for our overall well-being. Art making provides an opportunity to relax and unwind, to facilitate connection with others over a shared experience, and to explore something outside of our day-to-day routine. It teaches us how to solve problems, put aside perfectionism and to slow down.

We offer programming for adults and kids, but my “why” is the same. Come to Happy Go Creative Studio to connect, relax and unwind.

Q: How did you get your start?

A: For our earliest events, we collaborated with other brick-and-mortar businesses before we had our own space. I offered a Kids Craft Club at an ice cream shop and a Women’s Speed Friend-networking with Art event at a few local eateries.

Q: What does your business sell or provide?

A: Our offerings continue to evolve, but right now we offer:

  • Kids Camps, when schools are closed and over the summer.

  • Art Cafes, where registrants can come in and order a project of their choice off of our project menu. Perfect for individuals, families or groups who might have different interests.

  • Private Creative Events, like birthday parties, friend or family craft nights, and team-building events.

  • Creative Classes to learn a new skill, like watercolor, Cricut projects and sourdough making.

  • We’ll also be launching a few Art & Friendship Clubs in the fall to help people make friends and connections around a shared experience (like Women in Business)

Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?

A: My biggest challenge is marketing. Most local Facebook groups don’t allow businesses to post and yet that is how most people get their information. Social media in general is tough for small businesses, with algorithms always-changing and visibility quite low.