Running a Small Business - June Update 2026

Hi, I’m Susie, the face behind Cards and Crafts by Susie, a small handmade card business based in Australia.

This is a behind-the-scenes look at what running my small business has looked like throughout Jun, from new creations and shop restocks to the little moments in between.

One of the biggest focuses this month has been Pride Month. I’ve put together a small Pride display at Lemon Fizz in Mt Barker, filled with colourful cards and creations that celebrate love, individuality, and inclusivity. Seeing it all set up together made the space feel bright, welcoming, and full of personality.

I’ve also been creating and showcasing a range of Pride cards this month, and it’s been really lovely being able to make designs that help people celebrate and support the people they care about.

What I’m learning: Handmade products can help people feel seen, celebrated, and connected in ways that go beyond just gifting.

Tip: Don’t be afraid to create products that reflect different communities and personalities,  people love finding something that truly feels like them.

Another very exciting moment this month has been seeing my cards officially stocked in the new Lemon Fizz store at Christies Beach. This is something I’ve been working towards behind the scenes for a while, so seeing the cards finally displayed in the space feels really rewarding.

What I’m learning: Growth often happens gradually, and sometimes it’s only when you stop and look back that you realise how far you’ve come.

Tip: Celebrate the small business milestones, even the quiet ones, they’re usually built from a lot of hard work people never get to see.

In between working on cards and restocking shops, I also spent some time creating a batch of mini thank you cards for my sister. These were small and simple, but sometimes those are my favourite projects. It’s always nice creating something personal for family, and it reminded me that handmade cards don't need to be large or elaborate to make an impact.

What I’m learning: The smallest creations can often carry the biggest meaning.

Tip: Don't overlook simple designs, they can be just as thoughtful and appreciated as more detailed projects.

Later in the month, we took a trip to Melbourne for a concert the girls had been looking forward to. They went to see Fraya Skye perform, and it was lovely watching them enjoy something they had been excited about for so long.

As much as I love being in the studio, trips like these are a reminder that life happens outside of work too. Spending time with family and making memories together is just as important as crossing things off the to-do list.

What I’m learning: It’s important to make room for the moments that won't fit into a planner or business schedule.

Tip: Sometimes the best way to recharge your creativity is to step away from it and enjoy time with the people who matter most.

Another exciting moment this month was receiving the sample of my custom wrapping paper in the post. 

Overall, I was really happy with how it turned out, although I think the images need to be a little smaller before I order the next version. That's all part of the design process though, testing, learning, and making improvements along the way.

What I’m learning: Not every first draft has to be perfect. Sometimes you need to see a product in real life before you know what works best.

Tip: If you're creating new products, always order a sample first. It can save a lot of time and money in the long run.

The usual restocking continued this month too, including a trip to restock my cards in Blackwood. Keeping shops supplied isn't always the most glamorous part of running a handmade business, but it's one of the most important.

What I’m learning: Small, consistent actions often have the biggest impact over time.

Tip: Creating a regular restock routine helps avoid last-minute stress and keeps shelves looking their best.

June has also been filled with birthdays. I spent some time creating birthday cards for my nieces, which is always one of my favourite things to make. Knowing the person receiving the card makes it easier to personalise and add those little touches that make handmade cards special.

There were also birthdays to celebrate at home, with both my husband and one of my daughters celebrating their special days this month. It made for a busy but very happy few weeks.

What I’m learning: Handmade cards become even more meaningful when they're created with a specific person in mind.

Tip: Personal touches don't have to be complicated, sometimes a favourite colour, hobby, or theme is enough to make a card feel extra special.

I also created a motorbike-themed birthday card for my sister to give to her partner. Custom cards like this are always fun because they challenge me to think creatively and design something unique.

What I’m learning: Stepping outside my usual designs often leads to some of my favourite creations.

Tip: Don't be afraid to try themes you haven't made before, you might surprise yourself.

One project that kept Mum and me busy this month was making 50 origami daffodil flowers. These flowers continue to be close to my heart, and it was lovely spending time creating them together.

What I’m learning: Some projects are about more than the finished product — they're about the memories made while creating them.

Tip: If you have the chance to create with family or friends, take it. It can make even repetitive tasks more enjoyable.

To round out Pride Month, I also designed several new Pride cards to add to the collection. It's been wonderful seeing this range continue to grow and finding new ways to celebrate love, identity, and inclusion through my designs.

What I’m learning: Continuing to expand a collection helps keep ideas fresh and gives customers more ways to find something that speaks to them.

Tip: Don't be afraid to revisit a successful range and build upon it over time.

Looking back, June has been a month of growth, creativity, and plenty of special moments. From welcoming my cards into a new shop at Christies Beach and celebrating Pride Month to experimenting with custom wrapping paper, creating new designs, and spending time with family, it's reminded me that every small step helps my business grow. I'm finishing the month feeling grateful for the support of my customers, family, and fellow small businesses, and I'm excited to see what July has in store for me. 

Susie x