Name: Abby Jacobs
Location: Boulder, CO
Company Name: Happy Abby Peg Dolls
Tell us a little about what you do.
I create very detailed, hand painted peg dolls of all kinds! In my Etsy shop there are custom wedding cake toppers, custom families, birthday cake toppers, super heroes, fairies, and so much more! Currently, all of my Etsy profits are donated to Naropa’s Community Art Studio-International. They are working with Transitions Global to help girls who have been victims of human trafficking.
How long have you been in business?
I have been in business since January! Luckily, I’ve had so many orders already that I feel very experienced!
What inspired you to start your business/studio?
I have a graduate degree in art therapy but currently I stay at home with my two young children. I needed a creative outlet and this seems a perfect fit for me! I have always admired tiny things! I remember as a child, I absolutely loved playing with little dolls. When I saw these unfinished wooden pegs, I knew I could do wonderful things with them! I also have a strong desire to give back to the community and the world, so figuring out a way I could help also inspires me and keeps me motivated.
What is your favorite thing about your business/studio?
I love that when I create a wedding cake topper, I know that something I made is going to be a special detail in a very important event in the couple’s lives. At the same time, each purchase is a contribution to a very important cause! It is a double bonus! I also love the feedback I receive from creating these and other custom items. It makes me feel so good that my customers are thrilled with their custom order!
Was there a defining moment when you knew you picked the right career path?
Yes! When I received my first order it just felt right. It seems like the perfect thing for me to be doing, at the perfect time in my life. I know my career path will change when my kids are in school, but I feel like these peg dolls will always remain a part of my life.
When you built your business what style would you say you built it around? (i.e. classic, modern, vintage)
In regard to the wedding cake toppers, I guess my style was built around simplicity. I see so much beauty in things that are simple and chic.
When working with people how do you help bring the vision for the event to life?
I think that when the couple sees a totally customized version of themselves in peg doll form it makes them happy! It is such a special detail for the wedding day, but also an amazing keepsake to have for the rest of their lives.
Where do you go for inspiration? (i.e. blogs, magazines)
I use photos of my customers and the wedding attire they have chosen as my inspiration! When I am creating other peg dolls for my shop, my kids are my inspiration- they have so many interests that the possibilities seem endless!
Is there anything else you want people to know about you and your business/studio?
I also do custom families of peg dolls, so keep me in mind when your new family grows! Also, these dolls can be found in Ginger & Pickles and Fabricate in Boulder.
You can check out more on Happy Abby Peg Dolls by visiting her Etsy page, blog, Facebook page and following her on Twitter!
