Meet Trailblazer Anne Herring

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anne Herring.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
The journey of “The Home Handcrafted” isn’t particularly glamorous or even linear. In fact, if we’re being honest, the blog started as a selfish desire to record memories in a new city and has evolved into something that seeks to educate people about the power of the fashion industry and the part that our choices play in the world around us. When I created my first “capsule wardrobe,” I finally felt like I had some control over my identity. My closet was something that empowered me, rather than something that added more stress to my daily life. I was sick of thinking I had “nothing to wear” and that buying clothes would somehow fill a deep, personal void. I discovered the power of purchasing ethically and how that, in turn, empowers other makers and business owners. “The Home Handcrafted” seeks to help others realize that ethical fashion doesn’t have to be hemp dresses and sandals (although that’s certainly a look some people rock). It can be beautiful, contemporary and something that allows the craft of making clothing, and knowing who made the clothing, shine through.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
In some ways, I feel as though I’ve learned so much over the past two years and in other ways, I feel as if I know absolutely nothing. I’ve had more failure than I’ve had success. But here is something I do know – the comparison game is a dangerous one. Social media makes it so easy to think everyone else knows what they’re doing. But let me just say – they do not. The only thing you can do is focus on what makes your heart sing and keep doing that. If you don’t know how to do something, ask for help. If you need a sounding board, go find a mentor. Building anything successful is rarely done alone. Seek out others who lift you up and encourage you to keep creating, building, crafting, whatever. Don’t get too caught up in what everyone else is doing. Because your journey is just that, yours. There’s plenty of room at the table, you just have to pull up a seat.

We’d love to hear more about what you do.
By day – I’m an executive assistant for an incredible woman who specializes in business development here in Denver. By night – I’m an ethical fashion enthusiast who is obsessed with showing off brands who are doing good for people and planet. My personal goal is to show everyone (no matter income or background) that ethical fashion is so much more than upcycled clothing and vintage (although, I’m a huge fan of both). Educating people about making better fashion choices makes me feel like I’m part of something bigger than myself, striving to protect this precious place we all call home.

So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
As women, I feel as though we are living in such a pivotal time. We’re empathetic and compassionate, but we’re strong and mighty as a united front. I believe we have the opportunity (and duty) to continue lifting each other up to change the narrative of being a woman in a man’s world. We have a chance to stand up for our rights, to demand what is ours and to celebrate how capable we are. I don’t know if this counts as an opportunity, but I often think that we, as women, get jealous of other women who seem to know it all or have it all. We don’t stop to ask about their struggles, successes or stories. We should start viewing women as potential collaborators, not competitors. We’re living in too frail of times to bring each other down.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thehomehandcrafted.com
• Email: thehomehandcrafted@gmail.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehomehandcrafted/

Image Credit:
First image – Ray and Alyssa of http://mydearlove.photo

Getting in touch: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.