Running a Small Business - July Update 2026
Susan HollittHi, I'm Susie, the face behind Cards and Crafts by Susie, a small handmade card business based in Australia.
Welcome to my July studio update! Every month brings something a little different, and July has been filled with creativity, new ideas, and plenty of time at the craft table. From working on new card designs and restocking my shops to the unexpected moments that make running a small business so rewarding, here's a look behind the scenes at everything that's been happening this month.
July has started with the familiar rhythm of restocking, organising, and making sure my handmade creations are ready to find their new homes.
Yesterday I headed down to Goolwa to restock Harbour Collective, making sure the shelves were refreshed and ready for customers. Then today it was time to restock Lemon Fizz in Mt Barker. These jobs are such an important part of running a handmade business, while the creating is often the most exciting part, keeping stock available and displays looking fresh is what helps everything continue moving behind the scenes.
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What I’m learning: Running a small business is about more than just creating products. The planning, packing, restocking, and little jobs in between are what keep everything connected.
- Tip: Having regular restock routines can make a big difference. It helps you stay organised and means you’re always ready when opportunities come up.
In between working on new products and preparing stock for the shops, I also spent time colouring in a batch of thank you cards while working in Lemon Fizz. It's one of those jobs that looks simple, but I always enjoy seeing each card come to life with a little colour.
School holidays also arrived this month, bringing the perfect opportunity to slow down a little and spend time with the family. We enjoyed a trip to the museum, which was a fun day out, and we also welcomed a very special new addition to our family, our puppy, Blue! It's safe to say Blue has already brought plenty of excitement, cuddles, and a little bit of mischief into our home.
- What I'm learning: Finding a balance between work and family is so important. Taking time to make memories outside the studio helps me come back feeling refreshed and inspired.
- Tip: Running a small business doesn't mean you have to miss out on family time. Sometimes stepping away from work is exactly what you need to recharge your creativity.
Towards the end of the month, I also received a beautiful custom order to create a bouquet of 20 black and purple origami roses. I always enjoy custom requests because they challenge me to create something unique for a special occasion, and it's rewarding knowing that something I've made will become part of someone else's memories.
Looking ahead, next week's focus will be on restocking my shops and making sure the shelves are full of fresh handmade cards and gifts. Restocking may not be the most glamorous part of running a business, but it's one of the most important, and I'm looking forward to filling the displays with lots of new creations.
- What I'm learning: Every custom order and every shop restock is another opportunity to share my handmade creations with more people.
- Tip: Planning ahead for restocks helps keep shelves looking full and gives you more time to focus on creating rather than rushing to replace sold items.
One of the highlights this month was creating a custom bouquet of 20 black and purple roses. I always enjoy working on custom orders, and it was wonderful to create something unique for a customer.
I restocked my stockists, making sure each location had a fresh selection of handmade cards and gifts available. Keeping my stockists well supplied is a big part of running my small business, and I'm so grateful for everyone's continued support.
While much of July was spent making products to replace sold stock, I also continued planning new ideas for future card collections and craft products. It's always a balancing act between creating new designs and keeping my existing range available.
- What I’m learning: the importance of pacing myself between creative bursts and production work. It can be tempting to focus only on new ideas, but consistency in restocking and maintaining what’s already popular is just as important for keeping a small business running smoothly.
- Tip: dedicated “making days” for restocks and separate “creative days” for new designs, so neither side gets neglected.
Thank you to everyone who has supported Cards and Crafts by Susie this month, whether you've placed an online order, visited one of my stockists, or simply liked, shared, or commented on my social media posts. Every bit of support helps my small business grow, and I truly appreciate it.
I'm looking forward to sharing what August brings!
Susie x
