"I absolutely love when customers come to me and say 'can you create this type of card?' I love creating custom greeting cards that will bring joy to other people! I also love to see when my creations are purchased and when others appreciate my distinct aesthetic. And the more I sell, the more I get to create to replenish The Creative Type offerings!"

Diane Glowienke ~ Owner/Artisan @ The Creative Type

I INVITE YOU TO VISIT MY SHOP!

We are huge fans of Diane & her work! Her creativity and attention to detail is what sets The Creative Type apart. For every special occasion, share something unique, and give a handcrafted greeting card to that special someone!

- Kiel & Ana / Spots On The FOX

Tell us a little about your business!

I create handcrafted greeting cards, & repurposed vintage treasures.

How long have you been doing business in town?

The Creative Type has officially been in business for almost 1 year. I have been creating/selling my handcrafted greeting cards for many years, along with party favors, centerpieces, holiday gifts, etc. For several years, I operated a candy buffet business, Sweet 4 You, where I created custom colored candy buffets for various parties and events.

In December 2019, I did my first Craft Fair and my greeting cards sold quite well. I thought it was time to rebrand and rename my business, and choose "The Creative Type" because it did not tie me to any one creative avenue since I have so many different creative aspects of my business. I've recently expanded The Creative Type to include my vintage treasures, which is something I have been passionate about for many years, and I've also included in my own personal style for many, many years!

I worked with a Marketing Coach that helped me to pull my business thoughts and ideas together to officially start The Creative Type. I've been selling my greeting cards in a few local gift shops for 1.5 years. I opened my first Painted Tree booth in November 2020, and expanded my Painted Tree booth in May 2020. And I joined Spots On The FOX (I can't remember when!!!)

What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?

I have been a creative spirit my entire life, so it choose me! I started scrapbooking 25 years ago which introduced me to the creative world of paper crafting. Then in 2000, I discovered a rubber stamp company Stampin' UP! I joined as a demonstrator, and began teaching/selling their products to create greeting cards using rubber stamps, holding many classes/workshops in my home as well as customer homes for 10 plus years. This was my introduction to handcrafted greeting cards, which changed the course of my life! I was a stay-at-home Mom for 25 years, so this gave me the opportunity to use my creativity and earn money as well.

If you had to sum up your business mission to a stranger, what would it be?

Creative, purposeful, passionate, clever & organized ~ Purposefully and passionately creating, designing and organizing to elevate your everyday life.

What’s the biggest challenge or most difficult moment you’ve faced in your business?

Getting my products recognized and purchased by customers.

What’s the most satisfying part of your business?

I absolutely love when customers come to me and say "can you create this type of card?" I love creating custom greeting cards that will bring joy to other people! I also love to see when my creations are purchased and when others appreciate my distinct aesthetic. And the more I sell, the more I get to create to replenish The Creative Type offerings!

How would you say your business distinguishes itself from the others?

My entire line of creations are created from authentic vintage pieces, I do not sell mass produced items.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given when it comes to success?

I operate on a "you don't know unless you try" method, which is my own theory!

Are there any new projects or endeavors you’re working on that you’re extra excited about? If so, what details can you share and what makes it so exciting?

The next phase of The Creative Type is the service aspect, such as offering organizing, room decor refreshing, party planning, or extra set of hands for an event. I have just been hired to handle the decor for a Christmas Brunch and also to be a Day of Wedding assistant.

How can the community discover your business? 

You can find us at:

• Spots On The FOX
• Painted Tree Naperville, Booth D20 
• Facebook
• Instagram

This story is contributed by a Spots On The FOX Vendor & the views expressed are the author's own.