She is Back!

Every time I sit down to write a blog post, I find myself thinking, "is this really happening right now!?" It’s not just a holy crap Whitney moment — it’s feelings of disbelief, joy and SO much excitement. This moment has been a long time coming and I’m so excited to share it with all of you! Welcome to my world in blog form — Whit's world.

The past year has been incredibly challenging for me physically, mentally and emotionally. I’ve faced some of the hardest times in my life and one of the toughest parts was stepping away from my small business. Previous to the website you are reading this from, WhitMIMade was my creative outlet and true passion, leaving it behind felt like losing a part of myself. In June, I made the decision to leave the corporate world. I’ve spent the past few months quietly working on the Archi rebrand, pouring my heart and soul into every detail. This isn’t just a rebrand; it’s a representation of ME, my passion and a new beginning to share my creativity.

Let's take a step back to where it all started — just over four years ago, I opened an Etsy shop called “WhitMIMade.” It was born out of a love for creating pieces with clay, which I discovered at a local pottery class in Grand Rapids. Working with clay became my creative outlet, a way to express myself and share my talent with the world. That little Etsy shop grew into something I never expected and became a significant part of my life in so many ways.

So, how did I get here?! Let’s rewind to last fall where my health was on the decline for months. I was dealing with a lot of stomach pains, blackout spells, nausea — symptoms that became impossible to ignore as it was impacting my everyday life. After a series of tests and appointments, I was diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis. I had surgery in January with a successful removal of all the tissue but unfortunately, it's growing back again and I am on the journey of 'what's next.'

This diagnosis shook me to my core and still does everyday. Coming from someone who dreams of being a mom, hearing I have a disease with no cure is very defeating. The emotional and physical toll has been a lot and there are days when the fear and uncertainty feel very isolating. Through it all, Brad has been my rock. He constantly reminds me that I will be an amazing mom someday, no matter how that journey unfolds.

Fast forward to now, so much in my life has changed. I live in Chicago!! A city that has stolen my heart in more ways than one. I’ve traded the small town atmosphere in Michigan for the big city. And who is this Brad guy?? Well, two years ago, I took a weekend trip to Chicago for a country concert with my old roommate that turned my world upside down in the best way possible. During that trip, I met Brad. He’s Archie’s favorite human and he quickly became mine too. We navigated long distance for a year and a half and once my lease ended in June, we decided to take the next step and move in together...now I am officially a Chicago girl!

Little did he know, our condo would quickly be filled with jewelry making, inventory and all the chaos that comes with running a business. But this chaos makes me smile — I truly couldn't dream of anything more. 

The vision for Archi has been in my heart for a long time. I’ve always known that I was meant to do something more, to create something meaningful that resonates with others and make an impact in the world. 

I’M DOING IT. I’m terrified to be honest, but I know deep down I would never forgive myself if I didn’t take this leap of faith. I have so many big dreams and visions for Archi and what this brand can become. My greatest hope is that you’ll stick with me through this journey, supporting me as I navigate this new chapter.

I didn’t expect to write this much in my first blog post but there’s so much I want to share with all of you! I’m so grateful to have you here and I can’t wait to start this new chapter together.

Archi is more than just a brand — it’s a reflection of my journey, my struggles, my passions and my dreams for something more. Thank you for being a part of this with me. I’m so excited to share everything with you — jewelry, self-care, mental health, recipes, makeup, fashion, DIY projects and so much more.

PS: Never forget that you are beautiful, unique, special, valued, and so, so loved.

Xoxxo,
Whit