Maker Spotlight: James P. – Turning a Side Passion into a Thriving Side Business
James P. never planned to become a maker. What started as weekend experimentation with oils and herbs quickly became a serious pursuit after friends and coworkers began requesting his blends.
He credits Stone Road Apothecary with helping him transition from hobbyist to seller. The carefully selected tools, quality carriers, and clear guides gave him everything needed to produce consistent, professional results.
“I was shocked by how much better my oils performed once I switched to better ingredients,” James shares. “The difference in scent throw and shelf stability was immediate.”
James now runs a successful side business, selling custom anointing oils and small gift sets. He particularly appreciates the variety of packaging options, which helped him create an attractive brand presence.
The community aspect has also been meaningful. Connecting with other makers through shared resources and experiences helped him overcome early challenges and stay motivated.
“Having reliable materials and tools removed so many barriers,” he says. “It let me focus on creativity and building relationships with customers.”
James continues to grow his offerings and recently added a small line of herbal sachets. His story demonstrates that with quality support and steady effort, anyone can build a meaningful craft practice — even alongside a full-time career.