When Miki Benedict’s son Tyler was in elementary school, Valentine’s Day was never complete without a mother-son afternoon spent crafting handmade Valentines for his class.
Today, at 13, Tyler is too old to hand out paper Valentines, but Benedict still continues the tradition. Through her Etsy store, Fresh Lemon Blossoms, she sells DIY Valentines perfect for kids and their parents.
“When my son was younger, we always enjoyed crafting together,” she told the Daily Dot. “That was the inspiration behind my Valentine DIY Kits. I wanted to create a kit that had everything for you and your child to make handmade Valentine’s together. Kids can make them for their classroom parties or hand them out to friends & family. Valentine’s Day is about sharing the love.”
Since losing her part-time employment in 2008, the Modesto, Calif. wife and mother has made her Etsy shop her full time job. Year round, she sells seasonal paper goods for birthdays, baby showers, and weddings. As a result, Valentine’s Day isn’t the only time that her products contribute to her customers’ love stories.
“It’s so romantic to hear how couples are creating their own handmade wedding favors together,” she said. “Wedding are personal and it’s wonderful that couples are creating personal thank you gifts for their guests. I love it when couples find the perfect themed tag in my shop to add to their unique guest favors!”
Benedict said she’ll be preparing for Valentines’ Day this year by baking a chocolate cake or cupcakes for her husband and son as well as creating and shipping paper goods until February 6, the last day customers can order to receive items by the holiday. She expects to sell plenty of DIY Valentine card kits this season.
“I think my mini cards are perfect for adding to your handmade treats or telling that special someone how much you care about them on Valentine’s Day,” she said.