Project Description

As part of an article series in Shop Forest First magazine, I wrote the small business story of Monogram Love. I visited their store and interviewed the owner, Karen Betham. The resulting content brought their story to life:

  • Company History
  • Services and Products
  • Engaging Quotes

Project Background

I was contacted by All American Publications to interview Betham and write a background on her as a female business owner. I actually did several of the business profiles including, “In the Attic”, “Divine Designs”, “Lulu’s Closet”, “Winey Chicks”, and “Modern Day Boutique.”

I also provided the introduction and conclusion for the article, which focused on the impact of women in business on the American economy.

Excerpt

During our interview, Betham explained that she had the idea for her business for several years before she actually started it. Her reasons revealed the heart behind her work and showed her inner passion.

Monogram Love was established in 2013 to offer custom embroidery, screen printing and vinyl work. When Betham initially noticed monograms trending on Pinterest, she recognized a unique business opportunity. Their family already owns Universal Ts, an established business with commercial machinery for screen printing.

The Bethams have three sons, one of which, Zack, has special needs. As Zack grew up, Karen found a little more time and freedom to shape the new business.

In hindsight, waiting to launch Monogram Love was actually a blessing. It gave her time to think through her vision while also perfecting the craft.

This small business story constantly encourages me whenever I feel like I have to choose my family over my career. It reminds me to trust that things will work out when the time is right.

If It’s Not Moving, Monogram It

 

By Danielle Verderame

Originally Published at Shop Forest First

Pulling up to this unexpected gem, you’ll discover that Monogram Love shines the light on personalization. Inside their showroom, you’ll find shelves brimming with trendy products like Ivory Ella, Simply Southern and Corkcicle.

Their high-quality, beautiful clothing, accessories and homegoods turn into treasures when you add a monogram. Also, customers can also bring products in to add a mark.

Behind the counter, you’re likely to find the cheerful Karen Betham, Owner of Monogram Love. When she’s not running the store, Betham is the buyer, going to large shows looking for the next season’s trends. Also, she designs some of the items, like cute T shirts with sweet or spunky sayings.

Monogram Love was established in 2013 to offer custom embroidery, screen printing and vinyl work. When Betham initially noticed monograms trending on Pinterest, she recognized a unique business opportunity. Their family already owns Universal Ts, an established business with commercial machinery for screen printing.

The Bethams have three sons, one of which, Zack, has special needs. As Zack grew up, Karen found a little more time and freedom to shape the new business.

In hindsight, waiting to launch Monogram Love was actually a blessing. It gave her time to think through her vision while also perfecting the craft.

“We always knew that personalized gifts were something people love,” says Betham. And the bustle inside the shop proves her right.

When you hear about competing businesses sending work to each other, it means that they respect each other deeply. Monogram Love often get customer referrals from other vendors because they can do single pieces or unique items.

For the home, they’ve assisted both interior designers and homeowners with lovely touches like monogrammed bath towels or shower curtains.

Inside their store resides limitless possibilities for personalization. As Betham says, “Personalized gifts make the best gifts.”