We recently connected with Emily Butcher and have shared our conversation below.
Emily, we can’t begin to explain how much we appreciate you sharing about your PPD experience, but we can say that so many in our community are suffering from or have suffered from postpartum issues including postpartum depression and so you sharing your story and how you overcame it might help someone who is going through it right now or in the future. What can you share with us about how you overcame PPD? For readers, please note this is not medical advice, we are not doctors, you should always consult professionals for advice and that this is merely one person sharing their story and experience.
After the birth of my first daughter, Evelyn, I struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety. It started a couple of days after giving birth, and being someone who had never struggled with depression or anxiety before, I honestly had no idea what was happening to me at the beginning. My daughter was born at the start of the pandemic; the stress from that, lack of sleep, and hormone changes led me to experience panic attacks almost daily and deal with thoughts that no new mother should have to face. It was a stressful time in my life, but looking back, it grew my faith and strengthened my relationship with my husband, Kyle. God and my husband truly carried me through those dark times, and as much as I wish it hadn’t happened, that experience molded and shaped me into a stronger Christian, wife, and mother for my children.
I wish this topic were discussed more. I hope that more open conversations about it can help future mothers get the help they need to care for their babies best during this crucial phase of life. Currently, being 8 weeks postpartum with my third daughter, I can see how essential it is to have people supporting you, getting as much sleep as you need, and asking for help when you need it.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Em’s Clay & Craft started after giving birth to my first beautiful daughter! I was yearning for a creative outlet, being a first-time mom, and struggling to adjust postpartum to this new phase of life. I started with Macrame first but became discontent trying to make my first pair of earrings. I wanted all the components of the earrings I was trying to create to be handmade by me so I started googling and looking up Youtube videos and stumbled upon Polymer Clay. I hit the ground running from there and officially started my business at the start of 2021.
I specialize in handmade wearable art made from Polymer Clay. I mostly make earrings, but I have been expanding into necklaces and other forms of jewelry as well.
I’ve recently taken quite a break from my business after moving and having my last two daughters close together in age. I’ve been slowly easing my way back into it and I’m hoping to have my first new launch of the year soon!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
My faith, a strong work ethic, and resilience are some of the many qualities that shape me and my business. I would encourage others to find something they truly love and enjoy, and to dig deep to develop those skills to the best of their ability. Don’t give up! Investing time and effort into your skills will pay off in the long run. There will be tough days, especially as a small business owner. Don’t get discouraged by challenges; keep pushing forward and working hard.
Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?
My biggest challenge lately has been managing all the roles I juggle. Along with running my business, I am a stay-at-home mom to three beautiful girls, all under the age of four. I’ve also recently started homeschooling my oldest daughter. Over the past year, I’ve stepped back from my business to focus on my family. I’m hopeful that as we settle into a routine and adjust to being a family of five, I can gradually become more active in my small business again. I’m thankful to everyone who has continued to support and uplift me during these changes in my life!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://emsclayandcraft.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emsclayandcraft
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmsClayandCraft
Image Credits
December Clevenger and Lindsay Thurman
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
