The shop was buzzing with energy—customers milling about, admiring the pottery, chatting excitedly about new arrivals. I should’ve felt nothing but pride, but lately, it had been a strange mix of pride and exhaustion. My pieces were gaining serious traction. Orders were piling up—especially from boutique cafés and restaurants—and I was running out of space and time.

As I helped a couple decide between two ceramic sets, my mind wandered. This little shop was bursting at the seams, and the thought of expanding had started lingering more seriously than ever. Maybe it was time to find a larger space, maybe even build a small team.