From Classroom to Craft Club – Janelle's story building the Salt Lake City Craft Club

In this episode of the Crafty Mariana Podcast, Mariana sits down with Janelle Widtfeldt, founder of the vibrant Salt Lake City Craft Club. From first-grade teacher to full-time creative entrepreneur, Janelle shares her inspiring journey of turning her love for crafting into a community-centered business that brings people together through creativity. They dive deep into the joys and realities of running workshops, building authentic connections, using social media as a growth tool, and navigating the business side of creativity. Janelle opens up about imposter syndrome, messy events, and learning from mistakes—while always centering joy, play, and community in her work. Whether you’re crafting for fun or growing a creative brand, this episode is packed with heartfelt takeaways and practical gems. What We Cover in This Episode: ✎ Janelle’s leap from teaching to full-time creative business ✎ The story behind Salt Lake City Craft Club ✎ Starting with free events to grow community ✎ Why creativity matters for wellbeing ✎ How social media and ads fuel event visibility ✎ Authenticity, imposter syndrome & showing up anyway ✎ Letting go of rigid workshop structures ✎ The realities of business: money, mindset, and mistakes ✎ Future dreams of expanding Craft Club across cities ✎ Advice for aspiring crafters and workshop hosts Connect with Janelle: ✎ Instagram: @craftclub.slc ✎ Website: craftclubslc.com Resources for Your Workshop Business: 📌 Free Guide: How to Start Your Own Workshop Business📌 Free Spreadsheet: Figure Out Your Numbers! Stay Connected with Mariana: 🌎 Website: craftymariana.com📷 Instagram: @craftymariana🎨 Facebook Community: Crafting Workshops Community📩 Get exclusive content, resources, and deals: craftymariana.com/newsletter Let’s Make This Interactive! Have questions or topics you’d like me to cover in future episodes? DM me on Instagram or email me at [email protected]!