How To Be A Handmade Boss

#70 - Building a Brand Around What You Actually Love: Fran’s Story

Steph Cole-Lewis Season 1 Episode 70

In this feel-good episode of How To Be A Handmade Boss, I’m joined by the lovely Fran from Born to Shop Designs – and we’re diving into how she turned hobbies like gardening, crafting and music into a heart-led clothing brand that connects people through what they love. We chat about navigating business pivots, building a brand that feels like you, and why community matters more than ever (especially when you're not a fan of working solo).

Fran also opens up about leaving behind a business that didn’t light her up, starting again with a friend and fresh purpose, and how the Handmade Business Success Academy helped shape her journey. If you’ve ever questioned whether your idea is the one, or wondered if starting over means starting from scratch – this one’s for you.

💬 Topics we cover:
 • Making your business match your life (not the other way round)
 • Why it's okay to leave a business that’s not working
• How hobbies can connect you to your customers – and your best friends
• The mindset shift that made all the difference
• Fran’s tip for finding your thing when you’re full of ideas

🛒 Explore Fran’s brand: bourneto.shop 

Insta CTA

🚨 Free Challenge Alert! 🚨

✨ Want more sales from your handmade shop? ✨


Want to boost your Etsy/shop sales?

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Come join me for Listathon - a free challenge designed to help you create listings that actually sell (not sit still).


Across 4 powerful classes you’ll learn how to:

✅ Spot and create products your customers actually want

✅ Optimise your listings so they get seen in search

✅ Multiply your listings without burning out

✅ Market your shop simply (so you can spend more time making, not stressing)


It’s fun, practical, and could be the turning point for your business.

🎟 Sign up free here → handmadebosses.com/listathonweek


Love,
Steph & Team HB xox 💛