BEYOND THE MUSIC

Writing songs has always been my main way of processing the world and telling stories - since I was 11 years old.

From producing my own singles in my attic to receiving radio airplay and sharing the stage with Canadian blues legend Dutch Mason and Tom Stevens of the Jeff Healey Band, my 50-year musical journey may seem to some best defined as a fiercely independent spirit. But it's not so much that as it is just wanting to pursue all that inspires me. As an artist, mom, and wife, that same creative fire and inspiration, at times, pushes me to create beyond the pen, guitar and microphone.

For the past two decades, I have been proudly growing my footprint as an East Coast entrepreneur. As sole founder behind My Painted Porch, a 20-year-old vintage home decor and sign brand, as well as Designing Scarlett, a 5-year-old custom keepsake and heirloom studio, I am still learning everyday - in that the creative juices keep flowing but that in support of them, a whole lot of groundwork is to be conquered in order to fulfill them.

 

In 2021, I quietly laid that groundwork for the next independent venture: a premium apparel line dedicated to our northern New Brunswick lifestyle, culture, and coastal home here in Canada.

Having shared creations online, and the building of multiple creative businesses from scratch have taught me that shielding your hard work is absolutely vital. In industries where ideas are easily imitated or fast-tracked, guarding your original concepts requires ultimate resilience, and a fire in your soul so to speak.
 

In the latest endeavor, after navigating a rigorous 2.5-year application process even with a small Etsy shop of the same since 2022, I hit a massive personal milestone this past March: officially securing the federal registered trademark for our North 48°® Clothing Co - Since 2021 brand.
 

Through the beautiful chaos of balancing family life, stealing the moments for writing and recording, and business hurdles, I have continuously leaned on a powerful truth once shared by Dolly Parton: "Find out who you are and do that on purpose." We are all authors of our own stories, and creativity comes without limits.  "Whatever drives you, let it!" has become my motto.

I am incredibly grateful to everyone who appreciates the heart, time, and dedication that goes into genuine independent creation. I like to think of it as being true to myself. That anyone pays attention to any of it, is sheer gravy!  So truly, the gratitude runs deep.  
 

To celebrate this trademark milestone of this latest project, our brand-new standalone flagship storefront is officially live on Shopify. If you would like to support an authentic, woman-founded business and explore the comfortable layers I have spent the last few years building, you can browse the official line at the new North 48°® Clothing Co storefront.  A brand that pays hommage to my home, the rugged landscape of our little city nestled deep in the valley of the Appalachians, and our laid-back lifestyle and culture on the 48th parallel. 

I read these words once: "An essential aspect of creativity is never being afraid to fail."  I tend to let that sit on my shoulder as I venture on to trying new things, pushing my limits, and in my quest to learn more of myself and feed my soul or creative side - I guess what inspires me to do anything that I do.

And I've arrived at this: being true to ourselves is really the only way to do it. 

New tune coming up!  When?  I'm not sure, but I SO know - there will be one!

♫♥♪