We had the good fortune of connecting with Haley Yarbrough and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Haley, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The start of our business was a little less planned out than some. I was 19 and a sophomore in college. I had no plan to start an actual business. I just wanted a few bracelets to wear for myself! I started out beading bracelets at my coffee table in my tiny apartment. I enjoyed the creative process and missed that outlet since going to college. I have always been a creative person. My mother was an art major and then went on to teach art. I was surrounded by it and loved it. After many request from family and friends for bracelets or necklaces I decided to start an Etsy page. My first online order was from my grandmother. I will never forget the excitement of getting that notification. Looking back, how special is that?! I began purchasing beads and supplies with any extra dollar I had at the time… thanks mom and dad! I soon outgrew my coffee table and moved my small business to a bonus room at my parents house. I would go home most weekends to make jewelry. I had the small business bug! I loved the hustle! I did that throughout college. My mother decided to join in on the creative fun in 2012. We then became business partners and SoulPepper, LLC was born… it was official. It’s been 10 years since SoulPepper was started; 9 since I gained a business partner. We have since expanded into home and gift. Our dream has always been for SPD to be a lifestyle brand! We are working towards it! We have learned and continue to learn so many things along the way. We have had many late nights and a lot laughter. The journey has been fun, challenging and fulfilling.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We are based in a town a couple hours south of Atlanta called Perry, Georgia. It is quiet, friendly and charming. The perfect day in “Perrydise” would be starting the day at Morning by Morning with a coffee and then walking over to the farmers market on Saturday mornings at Bodega Brew. We would then shop around downtown. A few of my favorite shops are Massey Gordon, Meme’s, Initial Reaction, ViViAn’s Antiques, Kerri Moore Interiors and Sugarplum Tree for the littles. In between shopping we would sit for lunch at Swanson House for a delicious “southern” cooked meal! Have a high noon glass of champs at Clover Wine Merchant and then enjoy some live music at Hazards on the Green! Perry has so much to offer and is such a happy place! Come see for yourself!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to all of our customers who have kept us going for 10 whole years!! We are so grateful for each and every one of you!

Website: www.soulpepperdesigns.com

Instagram: @soulpepperdesigns

Facebook: SoulPepperDesigns

Image Credits
SoulPepper Designs

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