Sunny Sky’s Designs, a local business, creates all types of handmade wood products for all to enjoy. What started out as just a hobby turned into a part-time side hustle for Bond Head resident Skyler Hamilton.
It was about a year ago that Hamilton started her woodworking journey. She began attending local markets in town to showcase her hand-made products and create some awareness of the many amazing items she has to offer. She wanted to provide something unique, yet affordable.
"One day my fiancé Steven said to me I should start to sell my products for money and just get my name and work out there within the community and surrounding areas," said Hamilton. "I offer many handmade items, which includes wooden necklaces, coasters, benches, two-steppers, and I offer wood burning and many pieces can be customized to what you’re envisioning."
Hamilton said woodworking has been her lifelong dream. She started when she was young, working with her grandfather on small projects and says she fell in love with the wood's natural beauty and the endless creations she could make out of it.
"I have such a passion for woodworking, it makes me so happy to see the products I create make people happy," she said. "One customer experience I had recently was an amazing woman that drove an hour for one of my products. Knowing people would drive an hour for my work is just an amazing feeling," explained Hamilton.
While Hamilton's business is still starting out, she's had steady orders for the past couple years and said couldn't be more thankful.
"The community has wowed me with their support at the markets I attend, sharing my work on social media and sharing my passion with their friends," she said. "The thing I most enjoy is bringing such joy to a customers face after handing them a creation I made for them. Seeing someone love what I made just as much as I do is so fulfilling."
Hamilton says her wooden necklaces are one of the most popular items because people love that each one is unique and personal to them.
"Each necklace is handmade with all my love, making them a very special gift for a loved one or yourself," she said. "I am constantly growing my business. I push myself to create new ideas and listen to the suggestions from customers. My catalogue is always growing."
She said learning all aspects of how to run a business has been challenging and she's still discovering how to be more involved in the community and online.
"It is one thing to make my creations and find customers by word of mouth, but it is a whole other journey learning about marketing and social media," said Hamilton. "I am amazed by the positive feedback from my customers."
When asked what advice she would give other people wanting to open their own business she said don't second guess because it doesn't hurt to try.
"You have to start somewhere, and without starting you won’t know the outcome," she said. "Even if it's out of your comfort zone, go for it."
Hamilton will be bringing her work this year to the Bradford Farmers' Market, Carrot Fest, and many other artisan markets in Bradford, Newmarket, Barrie and more.
"I can’t wait to get back to the markets and back to carrot fest this year," she said excitedly.
Anyone who wants to check out or contact Sunny Sky’s Designs can follow Hamilton on Facebook.
Customers have the option to pick up their orders from Bond Head, or have them delivered locally for free.
