Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Latham
Kelly, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been making and selling things since I was a kid—I started with friendship bracelets on the playground in fifth grade and just never stopped creating. I didn’t set out to become an entrepreneur; it kind of happened naturally over time. I have a BFA in Illustration and an MFA in Sequential Art, and I’ve always loved storytelling through visuals.
After grad school, I started turning my illustrations into products—stickers, bookmarks, notepads, little things that could brighten someone’s day or help keep them organized. That’s how Kelly Latham Art came to life. What started as a side project evolved into a full stationery and gift brand, and I’m currently in over 150 retailers across the United States.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not a smooth road, but I think that’s just part of building something from scratch. A lot of it has been learning through trial and error—figuring out what works by trying things, messing up, and trying again. I didn’t go into this with a business background, so things like pricing, inventory management, and wholesale were all things I had to teach myself along the way.
There were times early on when I’d pour a ton of time into a product or a launch and it just… wouldn’t sell. Or I’d over-order supplies and be stuck with way too much of something. It was frustrating, but every misstep helped me refine how I work and what the brand is all about.
It’s also just a lot to juggle sometimes—managing everything from designing and packing orders to marketing and customer service. But I love the creative freedom it gives me, and it’s been worth figuring out the messy parts.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I create illustrated stationery and gifts that are both cute and functional—things like stickers, bookmarks, and notepads designed to bring a little happiness to everyday tasks. A lot of my work leans into bookish themes and cozy vibes, and I think that’s what I’ve become known for—designs that feel personal and warm, but still useful.
What really sets my work apart is the artwork itself. Each piece is packed with detail—layers and layers of illustration that make them feel like mini art pieces. I wanted to create organizational products that weren’t just text-based or minimal. I wanted things that were cute and had depth—something people could look at again and again and keep noticing new little things. That’s what I wanted to buy, but I couldn’t find it in the market… so I made it.
I’m proud that I’ve been able to grow this into a real business—my products are now carried in over 150 stores across the U.S.—but even more than that, I’m proud that I’ve stayed true to my style and vision the whole way through.
Pricing:
- Bookmarks $3.00 each or buy 3 get 1 free
- Stickers $4.00 each or buy 3 get 1 free
- Notepads $10-$14 each
- Coming soon: Zipper Pouches and Pens
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kellylatham.com/store
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylathamart
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/kellylathamArt
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/sleepyheadkl
