Small Business Spotlight: Meet Crafts by ChelsC

I've known Chelsea Clingen for practically my entire life. She is a stellar Ringette coach, who coached my sister for years! She leads her teams with such passion and grace, and I could not pass up an opportunity to interview her about her craft business for Chic Retreat.

Chelsea has been passionate about her art forever, and was given the push to sell her work by her friends and family. Her mission is to spread joy through her creations - everything is carefully sketched, woodburned, or painted by hand, all on locally-sourced wood. With a broad range of art styles at her fingertips, Chelsea can create anything from realistic, lifelike work, to a cute, cartoony style. Because of her versatility, Chelsea can custom create almost anything for you!

Through the Covid 19 Pandemic, which was a challenge for all small business owners, Chelsea stayed active online and survived through making distance deliveries. Even through all this, she's managed to get her Masters degree in History, recently began a PhD program, and persevered through mental health struggles. Her growth in her business is mirrored by her growth as a woman, as well.

Chelsea has no plans of slowing down any time soon, and she foresees continued success for Crafts By ChelsC. She's not afraid to shift or grow to evolve with the times. She's always looking for new products, continually improves her techniques, and she's forever searching for new inspiration, Chelsea isn't afraid to make big moves to keep her business thriving.

Check out Crafts By ChelsC on instagram and facebook - following and sharing a post goes a long way in helping local businesses grow.

You can shop Crafts By ChelsC at Algoma Makers Collective until August 13, and Algoma Makers Market Under the Rink on July 23 and August 27.

I am proud to know this powerhouse business woman, and grateful to call her a friend. Chelsea has been a positive role model for me and my younger sisters through sport for so long, and it fills my heart to see her find her stride in her art and her business.

Keep an eye out for Crafts By ChelsC - this is one to watch!