Custom Maps Of Places You Love
Ivana from Serbia, living in the USA.
What’s your backstory?
Before becoming a mom, I was a semi-truck driver! After deciding to stay home with our kids, I wanted to find a way to contribute financially while still being present with my family.
One year, I created a custom map as an anniversary gift for my husband — it showed the Department of Motor Vehicles where we first met while getting our Commercial Drivers License.
That one meaningful gift turned into my business idea.
What are your income streams?
All of my sales are online through my website. I hope to explore craft fairs and local markets in the future.
How have you attracted new customers?
Instagram and word of mouth have been huge. But the biggest impact has come from sharing the story behind each product. People really connect with meaningful gifts, and when they hear why something was made, it resonates with their own stories.
What is your favorite product?
My favorite is the “Where We Met” map — the first one I ever created. It’s simple, yet so personal. It captures that exact place and moment that changed my life.
Every time I make one for a customer, I’m reminded of my own story, and that’s such a special feeling.
If you could go back, would you do anything differently?
I would have started sooner! I held back for a long time out of fear that I wasn’t “ready” or good enough. But I’ve learned that progress is better than perfection, and small steps still move you forward.
What are your goals?
Right now, I’m in the early stages, so sales are modest. My goal is to reach consistent monthly revenue that helps support my family and allows me to reinvest in the business.
I want to build a brand people associate with warmth, love, and meaning. I’d also love to collaborate with other small businesses.
What tools do you use?
I use Shopify for my website, Canva for designs and social media, Printify for fulfillment, and Instagram to share behind-the-scenes content.
I also rely on Google Docs and spreadsheets to keep everything organized.
Do you have a favorite motivational quote or podcast?
A favorite quote of mine is:
"Life is a journey, not a destination." — Ralph Waldo Emerson.
It reminds me to embrace every step of the process, especially during the slow and growing phases of running a small business.
I also enjoy listening to The Product Boss podcast — it’s packed with practical tips and inspiring stories for product-based business owners like me.
And when I need to unwind, I love diving into anything written by Nicholas Sparks — his stories are always heartfelt and beautifully written.
If you have a pet?
No pets — just two toddlers who are more than enough to keep me on my toes!
Where can we find you online?