Kelsey Gibbs shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Kelsey, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
This year, I took on a small part time job at my kids’ elementary school. Before having kids and starting my business, I used to be a full-time elementary teacher. It has been really sweet to be back in a school setting and being able to see two of my boys during the day!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Kelsey, and I am a mom to three boys, wife to a pastor, and a creative. I started my shop 8 years ago when I was pregnant with my second son. I wanted a way to be able to stay home as my kids were growing, while also providing income and expressing myself through art.
What started as a shop focused solely on hand-lettering wood signs has evolved into a way to grow my creativity and build treasured relationships with customers and other business owners.
I still do hand-lettering, but most people know me for my scroll saw work and painting of itty bitty wood decor. Ultimately, whatever I make, I long for it to bring joy into your home!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I could look back on my life and point to many moments of exceeding joy and many of immense sorrow. The ones that tend to sit with m et longer are the ones that cut the deepest because they refine my character but also because they require a hope in something that is greater than myself.
My faith has been the root of my story. When I rightly see who I am in light of who God is, it provides a firm foundation that isn’t shaken by the ups and downs the world brings.
In 2022, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had no idea what my future held or how much future I would get, but I knew that I wanted every day I get to matter. It helped me dig deeper to engage more purposefully in my day-to-day and in my work. I try to live my life with gratitude for each moment I am given.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
The past two years has been very difficult for small businesses. Quite a lot of maker friends of mine have decided to close doors because sales are slow, social media is not what it used to be, and they are weary.
Most of us have felt this weighty shift, and I have considered more than once whether it’s time to move on from this.
I just continue to put one foot in front of the other and create beautiful things until God calls me elsewhere.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I hope that at the end of my life, I can look back on it knowing that I have faithful in pursuit of God. Everything that I do is for His glory. My prayer is that God would see fit to use me and my business to encourage, inspire, uplift, and bring joy to those with whom I connect.
Making pretty things is what I do, but pointing people to Jesus is what I believe.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I am gone, I pray they would tell of my faith and of my endurance in the midst of trials. I pray they would remember me as one who loved deeply and loved well. I hope that people will think of me and think of Jesus. I hope that no matter what it is that I accomplish on Earth, it all points to him.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.evergracedesigns.com
- Instagram: @evergracedesigns
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evergracedesigns
- Other: Amazon Storefront –
https://www.amazon.com/shop/evergracedesigns
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
