Hey Uniquies — this isn’t the kind of thing I ever wanted to write, but I want to be open about where things are and what I’m hoping to build next.

This past year has been unusual for a lot of small businesses. Shopping patterns changed, people were more careful, and even my October (normally my biggest, most magical month) looked very different — over 80% down in online sales. Not insanely bad — just different enough that it made me stop, breathe, and rethink how Beautifully Unique needs to grow for the next decade.

I’ve been running this spooky little business for over 10 years now. It has supported my family, let me raise my daughters from home, and built a community I honestly adore. Because I care so much about it, I want to evolve instead of just “waiting for things to go back to normal.”

To do that, I need to expand what I can create in-house.

I’m trying to invest in a 4-in-1 laser machine (xTool M1 Ultra) that would let me offer so many new products — acrylic pieces, engraved tumblers, wood signs, ornaments, leather goods, custom tags, home décor, personalized gifts, and more. It opens up year-round product lines instead of relying so heavily on one season.

This isn’t about saving a failing business. Because I'll never let BU fail.

This is about adapting and growing a strong one.

I’m raising funds to help purchase this machine and the materials that go with it. It feels vulnerable to even ask, but so many of you have supported me for years, and this feels like the right moment to invite the community to be part of the next chapter.

If you can donate — thank you.

If you can share — thank you.

If you’re just here cheering me on — thank you.

It all matters.

I’m excited (and a little emotional) about what this could unlock for Beautifully Unique Bootique and for all the spooky, fun, or weird things I want to create for you.

Here’s to adapting.

Here’s to creativity.

Here’s to the next evolution of BU.

Love,

Jill