Alleghenies region is the perfect home for artist and crafter entrepreneur

“I wanted to use my artistic talent in a way that was more sustainable for my body,” Rebecca Balog said about her desire to transition into a new career. “I started by making acrylic blank keychains with alcohol inks with cute sayings on them. I also cut recycled leather into earrings with my Cricut and hand-painted them.” Then she added pins and magnets to her collection and started selling her work at local craft shows.

The Alleghenies region has proven to be the perfect location for her business. “We have so many opportunities in this area where a lot of people come out to support the arts,” she said. “I was able to upgrade all of my displays after each show and I started receiving special orders. I also noticed people visiting my Facebook page after shows,” Rebecca said.

Startup Alleghenies has given me the confidence that I needed to move forward with my business ideas. I’m so thankful to be a part of this program.

The guidance that Rebecca received from her Startup Alleghenies coach Blake Fleegle has played an important role in the success of her business. “Startup Alleghenies has given me the confidence that I needed to move forward with my business ideas. I’m so thankful to be a part of this program,” she said.

“Becky is a talented artist – both in her day-job making people look better at the salon, and in her business creating some beautiful jewelry & crafts,” Blake said.

We have so many opportunities in this area where a lot of people come out to support the arts.

Rebecca credits her passion for creating as the driving force of her business. “I never get tired of creating. I am always looking forward to new things to make and add to my collection,” she said. Moving forward she hopes to make more personalized gifts and to open a small shop to sell her gifts and possibly offer crafting classes for kids and adults.

“I have met so many amazing, supportive and inspiring people in the crafting community by starting this business journey! I hope that I can inspire someone else, as well,” she said.

Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.