She calls me “Plant Papa”
The pandemic changed a lot of lives… some of them, for the better.
Kelly and me, in her studio with my new office sign
A lot of people took the time to reassess their lives and careers, and move things into new directions.
Kelly Jo Schimetz of Mesa is a great example. Now in her 50s, she recently launched a whole new career, and created the “Cape & Willow” brand.
She considers herself a “creative maker.” Kelly is a Jill-of-all-trades when it comes to crafts, creating projects out of all kinds of mediums from wood to leather to clothing to acrylic to glass.
I’ve known Kelly for 15 years. I remember her shrieking the first time she saw me in a bar in Spokane, Washington (where I used to work). I was flattered, since she recognized me from TV … but later realized she shrieks whenever she sees someone she knows or likes.
By coincidence, she and her family moved to Arizona shortly after I did. We stayed in touch via social media, but haven’t actually spent time together since our days in Spokane.
She’d worked as an office manager in a lot of different settings. I imagine her bubbly, friendly personality made her a perfect fit.
The idea for “Cape & Willow” came about in 2017. She’s always decorated to the max, and she started thinking about selling some of her creations.
It’s more than just pumping out a few crafts. She’s continued to invest heavily. The laser cutter she uses cost a small fortune, and she wants to upgrade to the $20,000 version.
She works odd hours, which works perfectly and allows her to take care of her grandchildren on Fridays.
For now, she’s selling mostly on Instagram and online at www.CapeAndWillow.com.
I was excited to see The Plant Stand of Arizona start selling some of her cool plant-related designs!
I’m so excited to see this major life change working for her, and proud to see her follow this passion project.
At home, her house explodes in Autumn decor by August. The summer nautical theme is quickly replaced for her favorite time of year.
The Fall/Halloween theme sticks around until December 5th (exact date) when she begrudgingly switches to Christmas to appease her husband of 33+ years, Robin.
It must help that Robin is completely supportive of Kelly’s new endeavor, though he suspects (as I do) that she’s not charging enough, and needs to work on invoicing her clients. I can’t blame her. I’d be the same way. But she needs to make sure she’s getting paid for her beautiful work.
Case in point: She wouldn’t let me pay for the “Plant Papa” sign she made me!
I owe her a lunch. I’m just waiting for the invoice… or text message :)
If you are interested in my travel adventures, check out my travel blog Jared’s Detours.