From Cricut to Creative Entrepreneur
Interview with Kara Janaro, founder of 3rd & Elm Co.
Take us back to where this all started! What do you create?
After my children both graduated from high school, I decided it was time to chase my dream of running a creative small business. I researched lasers for months, looking for the right fit. Aeon’s customer service is what sold me, and they’ve never disappointed!
Now I create a little bit of everything: custom ornaments, signs, tumblers, jewelry, hats, Taylor Swift memorabilia, file designs, and so much more. If someone has an idea, I love bringing it to life.
Tell us about your business and how it has evolved into what it is today.
I ordered my MIRA9 in 2021 and received it in January 2022. At first, I was overwhelmed and way in over my head. YouTube tutorials and a lot of support (especially from EJ!) gave me the confidence to finally pull on my “big girl pants” and just go for it.
Since then, my business has grown into a mix of custom work and creative events. My favorite by far? Hosting pet parties, where customers leave with a beautiful finished portrait of their pet and the biggest smiles on their faces. My long-term dream is to open a combined Makers Space, Boutique, and Workshop, a space where creativity thrives.
What were you doing before you had your laser?
I was a stay-at-home mom, and I loved every moment of it.
What inspired you to buy a laser?
My Cricut… lol.
How has your business grown or changed since buying a laser?
The laser gave me the ability to work with multiple materials and expand what I offer. Beyond that, it’s given me confidence in myself, and the encouragement of my husband has been a huge part of that growth.
How has your life changed since buying a laser?
I’ve had to learn to put myself out there, which was uncomfortable at first. Selling my work and marketing my business forced me to step outside my comfort zone, but it’s been worth it.
What advice do you have for people interested in getting a laser?
Go for it! But be prepared for a learning curve. Don’t give up, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The support in the laser community (and from Aeon) is amazing.
Looking back, tell us about your significant turning point, or perhaps even an obstacle you had to overcome to get where you are now.
Learning my MIRA9 was probably the biggest hurdle. I went from no laser experience straight into a large commercial machine, and it was intimidating. Another challenge has been finding consistent work. Staying busy often means experimenting with new niches or ideas to keep momentum.
What is your superpower?
Creativity and ideas.🧠🌈
