When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, it left many people reeling from unexpected challenges, and Katy Hollingsworth was no exception. In March 2021, the once-bustling office where she worked had gone eerily quiet, and remote work became the new normal. Then came the news she had feared: she was laid off. The sudden loss of her job was a blow that left her facing an uncertain future, filled with anxiety and a deep sense of dread.
Job hunting during the pandemic proved to be an exhausting and seemingly futile task. Each day blurred into the next as Katy found herself trapped in an endless cycle of scrolling through job boards and submitting applications, hoping for a breakthrough that never seemed to come. The monotony of this routine only heightened her stress, pushing her to seek comfort in her favorite hobbies. She found solace in romance novels, horror movies, and the quirky corners of pop culture—familiar escapes that had always brought her joy.
But it was in these moments of escape that a new idea began to take shape. Katy had always been passionate about the things she loved, but now, with an abundance of free time and a desire for a fresh start, she began to see a new path forward. What if she could create something that combined her love for these genres with her artistic skills? What if she could turn her passion into a business?
With a mix of excitement and apprehension, Katy Hollingsworth decided to take the plunge. She had always been an artist at heart, with a mind brimming with creativity and a love for vibrant, colorful designs. Now, she had the opportunity to fully embrace this side of herself. Her home office transformed into a creative studio where she spent countless hours experimenting with design software, learning new techniques, and refining her artistic voice. The journey wasn’t without its challenges—navigating the technical aspects of design was daunting, and ensuring that she could financially sustain her dream added an extra layer of complexity.
By the fall of 2021, after months of preparation, Katy was ready to launch her Etsy store, "hometovvne." The name reflected her desire to infuse a sense of warmth and comfort into everyday items through her designs. Her initial product lineup included a series of stickers inspired by the popular "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series, a nod to the books that had provided her with comfort during uncertain times. Seeing her ideas come to life in physical form was exhilarating, and the pride she felt when she made her first sale is something she will never forget.
As the months passed, hometovvne began to gain traction. Orders started to roll in, and Katy found herself expanding her product line to include custom designs based on her favorite video games, as well as acrylic pins and glassware. Each new release brought with it a surge of excitement, and the satisfaction of seeing others enjoy the products she had poured her heart and soul into was deeply fulfilling.
Looking back on her journey, Katy is grateful for the unexpected turn her life took. While losing her job was undoubtedly a difficult experience, it ultimately led her to discover a new and rewarding path. hometovvne has become more than just a source of income; it’s a testament to her resilience, creativity, and passion. It’s a space where she can express her love for romance, horror, and pop culture, while connecting with others who share those interests.
For other artists who might be facing their own challenges, Katy offers this piece of advice: "Don’t give up, and don’t let others diminish what you do. Take pride in your work, because no one but you can portray your unique creativity. Share it, because someone, somewhere, will connect with it."
Today, Katy Hollingsworth continues to build her brand, always finding new ways to channel her creativity into products that bring joy and inspiration to her customers. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always the potential for growth, transformation, and success.
You can explore Katy Hollingsworth’s work and follow her creative journey on Instagram at hometovvne, or visit her Etsy shop at hometovvne to see her latest creations. If you'd like to support Katy's ongoing work, consider donating through her PayPal donation link. Your support helps keep her creative dreams alive. 🌟
