Last year when I was working on a new blog layout I also decided I wanted to spotlight other women in business and the idea for the Small Business Spotlight was born. I have several friends and acquaintances I’ve met who have either created their own business by making one-of-a-kind crafts, home decor or design items, or others who use direct selling companies to create a business for themselves to help support their families. These spotlights are more about these amazing women and showing support for them, rather than what they produce or sell. However, their products or services are ones I’ve used and enjoy, and would definitely recommend to others. I encourage you to learn a little more about these women, what they do and why they do it. Our first spotlight is on Chelsea Howell, the owner behind The Makings of a Mommy.

What do you do/sell?

I sell crocheted items. I tend to lean towards making baby items (specifically baby girl items), but I love making anything and am always willing to try something new.

How long have you been open?

Since April 2012

What made you decide to open your business?

I had been crocheting as a hobby while I was pregnant with my daughter and ended up with a pile of stuff that I didn’t know what to do with. So I decided to sell them. When I started my business I didn’t realize how popular crocheted items were. I just thought I might as well try it out. And it’s been really great ever since.

What do you love most about being a small business owner and what you offer?

I really like that I’m working on my own terms. If I need to take a break and close my shop for awhile I can. It’s all up to me.
 I also love that although crocheted items are pretty popular, each item is still very unique and handmade.

What or who inspires you?

My daughter, Charlotte, is one of my biggest inspirations. I love to try out new stuff on her. That’s a main reason why a lot of the items I make are for baby/toddler girls.

What’s something you want people to know about you?


I am a people pleaser. I take great care to make all items as best I can. Long after I send an item out I worry whether it’s holding up and whether the person likes it. So feedback is really nice to have. 
Even though this started as a hobby to pass the time, it has grown into such a passion and I care very much about each item I make.

What do you and your family do for fun?

One of my family’s favorite things to do for fun is to go for walks. It’s so nice to just get outside and enjoy the nice weather. It’s also really cool to explore new places. There are so many parks, and places to take walks in Boise that we can’t wait for the weather to warm up so we can get outside again.

Because I love food and food is fun, what’s your favorite dish to make or eat?

I am not much of a cook, but one dish I really do enjoy making (and eating) is enchiladas.  Enchiladas have actually been one of my favorite things to eat since I was a kid. And there are so many ways you can make them, and they always turn out good!

Describe your perfect day. (where would you be, who would you be with and what would you do?)

There are several different perfect days I could have. Just sitting around and crocheting would be one of them, of course. Or even just days where we visit family or friends. Or one of those days with great weather where we pack up the kids and go for a walk, like I mentioned is one of our favorite things to do as a family. As long as I’m around the people I love or doing something I love, it’s definitely a perfect day.

If you could possess one super power, what would it be?

Haha good question. I’m not sure if this counts as a super power, but it’d be really nice to have some extra arms. But, I could hide the extra arms if I’m out in public or not using them. 😉

How can people contact you about your business?

My Etsy page is www.themakingsofamommy.etsy.com and you can send me a message there. My facebook page is www.facebook.com/TheMakingsofaMommy and you can message me there. Also, my email address is mrschelseahowell@gmail.com.