We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Chavez Miguel Ruvalcaba and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley Chavez, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself unexpectedly laid off from the hospitality industry. As I spent my days at home feeling bored and uncertain about what to do with my newfound free time, I stumbled upon an ad for a laser engraving machine. I shared the ad with my partner and we decided to make the purchase despite initial hesitation. Conducting market research on Etsy, I discovered that Valentine’s Day tags were in high demand. With a spark of creativity, and with the help of my partners technical expertise we crafted our own unique version with the hope of selling just one. To my delight, on the second day, we made our first sale, earning $10. Encouraged by this initial success, we continued to sell more and more, gradually expanding our product line. One of our innovative creations was a tequila board that could hold up to four shot glasses, along with designated spots for salt and limes. We engraved a generic saying on the board, posted it on Etsy, and received incredibly positive feedback.

By the time 2021 rolled around and life was gradually returning to normal, I faced a pivotal decision: whether to return to conventional employment for financial security, or take a leap of faith and pursue my creative passion further. I quickly realized that I was fulfilling my own dreams and aspirations, rather than simply working towards someone else’s.

Fast forward being our third year in business we collaboratively nurtured and developed our business into the thriving success it embodies today .We have built a team of 10 employees, established a warehouse equipped with six industrial laser engraving machines, and have room for further growth and expansion.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Taking the risk to turn a hobby into a full-time business has been a significant accomplishment for the both of us. It required courage, determination, and a leap of faith to pursue our passion and transform it into a viable source of income. Through hard work, perseverance, and dedication, we are proud to say that we have successfully built a business that not only sustains the both of us but also provides opportunities for others in our community.

Fueled by unwavering determination and relentless effort, we concluded the year 2022 with sales surpassing the $1 million mark. This monumental achievement stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment and tireless endeavors.
While acknowledging the challenges that have punctuated this journey, we know there will be more challenges we must overcome. It is proven that with determination, one can truly surmount any obstacle. This profound realization has been a cornerstone of our journey, igniting our path toward victory.

Genuinely, I want people to feel connected to our brand through our story. As first and second generation Mexican Americans we put ourselves in an uncomfortable situation and made an opportunity out of it. We have many more milestones and learning curves along the way for Simply Crafty Customs but it all begins with that initial step towards starting your dreams.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We love supporting small businesses within our local community! We love showing our friends local coffee shops. One of our favorite spots to go to is a local coffee business called Ambrosia Coffee Roasters located in Wilmington, Ca.. On our days when we need extra fuel we make sure to stop on by for some coffee. We recommend their iced Spanish latte! It’s always our go too.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Novelty Ink stands as a flourishing print-on-demand business that has provided unwavering support throughout our journey from its inception. Owners, Ralph and Jessica Delgado have exemplified exceptional mentorship, consistently imparting their insights and words of encouragement. Their profound expertise has not only propelled the expansion of our business but also fostered our personal growth, culminating in the achievement of our aspirations. Their core values and guidance have profoundly influenced our pursuit of greater heights for both ourselves and our business, instilling an unwavering self-belief.

IG: @Novely.Ink
IG: @Djralphretro

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/simplycraftycustoms

Instagram: @SimplyCraftyCustoms

Other: We are currently selling only on etsy but will be launching our website within the next few weeks. To stay up to date with any pop-ups please visit our Instagram and Tik-Tok.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.