My name is Amanda Opferman, I am 19 years of age. I have three younger sisters and a little brother who is four. I started my company, Wallflower Design Co. when I was 16 when I couldn’t find a phone case that I liked. Three years later, my business has grown and changed way more than I expected or dreamed (like your pants on thanksgiving, kinda.) I went to college for a month and dropped out to pursue growing my company. (Heck, I could go back later.)
How do you take care of yourself so that you’re physically and mentally prepared to be your best self for others?
My home studio is in my basement (finished for my studio space). I deliberately planned out a little ‘nook’ filled with antiques, good books and a big American flag. This is where I do my devotions – I pray for good business decisions and strength for the day. This definitely keeps me sane. I bring the walls down and just relax in this time. More recently, I have been doing nightly devotions due to chaotic mornings.
In your house, how do the mundane parts of life get done?
I am always so buried in my work. Since I work at home, it is tough to escape it. If my car is in the driveway, I am probably working. (I’m excited to maybe/finally get my own commercial space soon!) I try and do laundry on Sunday, my room on Monday, the studio on Wednesday and then whatever needs done the rest of the week. I am still living with my parents if you couldn’t tell already. ;) I try and get my sisters to help with whatever needs cleaned. Not a specific day of the week.
What is one tradition or routine that’s really important to you? And why?
Almost every night, we will all sit in the living room and talk about our days, the news and play with our dachshunds – Lucy & Rudy. Let me tell you, they are both balls of energy after dinner, which we also have together. I am so thankful that my parents make us all stick together when we could all be hurrying off to do other things.
Your PICK SIX: What 6 products can you absolutely not live without?
Oh wow! This is tough. I love:
1. My iPad: I love how I can have everything on it. Editing software for Instagram posts for @madebywallflower, books for the down time and of course, music.
2. Micron pens with sketchbook: Micron pens are my favorite medium – I have used them on almost every project I’ve created! I always carry a small sketchbook to dump my brain of design ideas and quotes to use for my current 365 project.
3. My Home-Base Binder: I love the printables. Cant wait to try out the weekly planner this year!
4. My Bible: I have learned as a small business owner that the only constant thing is God. As I take more risks and carry on day-to-day I lean into him to give me guidance on everything.
5. Mod by This Is Ground: I love how it can carry everything I need.
6. My favorite chapstick or lipstick: I am a fan of Stila ‘Vivienne‘ shade lately along with the shimmery chapsticks from Burts Bees. I can’t decide!
Anything else you think our readers would love to know? Any additional tips or systems that help you keep it all together?
I think that especially in this time, it is easy to lose ourselves in social media. It is so easy to put a front on for our followers. It is so much more important to post something showing your real true self than posting something for likes or attention for the moment. Let your true style show off. Be authentic!
Follow along with Amanda:
Instagram: @madebyamandaliz
—
The Simplicity Series features busy gals, in different stages of life, making what matters happen and tips and tricks they’ve found to be helpful. Simplicity is about building margin into your life and spending time on and with that which fuels your heart. While we love to share products and services that help us day to day, but simplicity is about HEART and intentionally choosing the thing that matters most (your TREASURE) more than anything money can buy. We wear many hats and we know you do too, so we’d love to hear your thoughts as well! For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12:34
We want to know how you intentionally create joy in your life as well as the ways you make your busy life simpler. Submit your story here.
