Today we’d like to introduce you to London Decker.
Hi London, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have so many interests and passions that it can be hard to focus on one thing. I have a B.S. in Psychology, a M.S. in Architecture, and work experience in real estate, construction, and design. I’ve always loved volunteering, whether working with animals or most recently in my 5 years as a member of the Junior League of San Diego. The constants in my life were helping people make home design decisions and an interest in social responsibility. Nine months after my daughter was born, I was ready to put my brain to work again. I toyed around with the idea of running a business and started brainstorming what else could fulfill my passions. I thought about how much I love to give thoughtful gifts to family, but it can be hard to find quality products online. I recalled being a kid shopping at waldorf craft fairs where everything was handmade and beautiful; I arrived at the idea of “Earth & Artisan” an online store whose name represents its values. Earth: a connection to mother nature, sustainability, and materials like wood and clay. Artisan: a love of handmade products from talented makers who profit socially and economically from the sale of their goods.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting a business is wild! You just don’t know what you don’t know. I didn’t think it would be an easy road, but online traffic just doesn’t find you without a lot of work. Setting everything up for the business, ordering inventory, building a website, SEO, social media marketing – it takes so much to get even one sale. My business opened in April 2023 and later that year I ran a booth at some holiday markets to increase awareness of my company and to start to get some grassroots sales. I’ve sold at a few “Makers and Shakers” markets this year and recently was a vendor at “2nd Saturdays” in Mission Valley. My business hasn’t been profitable yet but we’re still young and figuring it out.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in selling items that are handmade, sustainable, and fair-trade – most of my store’s items are all three! Many products I sell are from renewable or recycled materials such as reclaimed wood or reused metal. These items are crafted by hand by marginalized communities, for example, women in high-crime areas of Guatemala. I receive all my items from suppliers that are part of the Fair Trade Federation, which ensures the artisans making our products receive a livable wage and in turn lift up their entire community.
I’m super proud of my products and what my store stands for, and I am proud of myself for having an idea and seeing it through.
How do you think about happiness?
My daughter, my husband, and our life together in San Diego. I am a total foodie, so I love to try new restaurants or cook, our favorite summertime dinner is pizza made in the backyard oven. Ironically, I am not a fan of the beach, sun, or craft beer, but I love the good weather, chill vibes, and we have fun every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.earthandartisan.shop
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/earthandartisan.shop
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/earthandartisanshop
- Other: www.pinterest.com/earthandartisanshop
