Arlene (owner of Lord Design) and Anna (owner of Carter & Rose) connect over the power of handmade items. Anna believes that unique, one-of-a-kind items invoke storytelling and connections between strangers.
Ana embarked on her crafting career when she worked as an art teacher and made ceramic dishes in her free time. The creative bug first bit when she discovered a kiln in her school’s janitor closet… From there, it’s history! Her husband would accompany her to local craft fairs where she would sell her creations. When her friend (Liz Carter) made the big move to Portland, she tagged along and the two opened Carter & Rose. The shop is equipped with a kiln and workstation where Ana and her team craft every item by hand. She believes in creativity and its power in uniting people — hence her loyal team members and store patrons.
One day, as she was crafting her dishes and tossing the excess clay, the two decided to make use of the scraps. Thus, the sustainable cone planter was born! Immediately these wall planter became their #1 seller and helped the store blossom into a Portland staple.