Challenges, Change, and Conscious Consumerism
What a year 2025 has been already. If you follow along on Instagram, you may have noticed I’ve been a little MIA when it comes to posting new designs and creations. There are a few big reasons for that, and I wanted to share an update—both personal and business-related—on what’s been happening behind the scenes at Middleyak Leather Co.
A Kitchen Renovation Took Over My Life (and My Studio)
Since the start of January, my home has been in full-blown renovation mode. Our kitchen makeover has involved painting (more times than I can count—color drenching sounds great until you’re actually doing it), and unfortunately, it also cut off access to my studio for weeks. With everything in chaos, my ability to make and create slowed down significantly. But the end is in sight! Get ready to start seeing more as I prep for in-person markets.
A Scare with Creeper AKA Our Drunk Baby
Just as things started returning to normal, my pup Creeper had a terrifying health scare. She developed full-body tremors and major gait issues, which landed her in the hospital for a night. For a solid week, it was heartbreaking not knowing what was wrong as she started getting worse. The vets believe she ingested micro toxins from mold—either in her food or outside in the yard. While she’s still a little wobbly (earning the loving nickname Drunk Baby), she’s improving daily, gaining confidence, and getting back to her usual froggy self.
Creepy in her safety nest after a hospital overnight
Prioritizing Conscious Consumerism in 2025
Amidst all this, keeping up with the state of the world is overwhelming. It’s easy to feel powerless, but one area I’m actively focusing on is adjusting my spending habits to directly support small businesses and my local community. It’s not always easy or convenient, but I’m making a conscious effort to shift my mindset every time I make a purchase, no matter how small.
Here are the five questions I now ask myself before buying anything:
Do I really need it?
Can I get the same thing (or something even better) from a small business?
Can I buy it in person instead of online?
Can I find it used, vintage, or thrifted instead of buying new?
Does the company value sustainable practices and fair wages?
Changing our buying habits won’t happen overnight, but every small shift makes a difference.
Why Middleyak Leather Belongs ON Your Conscious Shopping List
I fully acknowledge that luxury leather goods don’t always pass question #1 above—but hear me out.
Middleyak is as small business as it gets. It’s just me, Marissa. I design, make, and promote everything. I handle bookkeeping, customer service, and social media. I don’t pay fair wages—but thats only because I can’t even pay myself yet. Every cent goes back into growing this business.
Beyond that, I work hard to ensure that my materials and supplies come from other small businesses and American companies to cut back on shipping emissions and support local craftsmanship. Here’s what that looks like:
Hardware: Quality solid brass hardware from an 80-year-old, family-owned business in Massachusetts.
Thread & Leather Balm: Both sourced from small family-run businesses in Maine.
Leather: Purchased through a small, family-owned wholesaler in Minnesota, with most of it coming from the S.B. Foot Tannery, also in Minnesota.
Shipping: I reuse boxes and packing materials whenever possible, so don’t be surprised if your order arrives in a Sharpie-blackened box. (It’s what’s inside that counts, right?)
And if you’re local, you don’t have to shop online! I attend in-person events, and if you want to stop by my studio to shop, just ask. I love sharing what I’m working on (as long as it doesn’t involve making reels!).
Quality That Lasts—Because Fast Fashion Sucks
Everything from Middleyak is meticulously handcrafted. I cut, stitch, and mount hardware entirely by hand, ensuring durability and long-lasting quality. Unlike mass-produced leather goods, I don’t design with built-in obsolescence. I create products meant to last for years—maybe even decades. If something isn’t meeting your expectations, I want to know so I can make it right.
I don’t want you to buy another bag because your first one fell apart. I want you to buy another because you love the quality and functionality of the first.
February 28th: The Economic Blackout & Supporting Small Businesses
With the upcoming economic blackout on February 28th, I encourage you to remember that your wallet is powerful. Every purchase you make is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in. Supporting small businesses keeps dreams alive, fosters community, and builds a more sustainable economy.
So whether it’s a bag from Middleyak or a handmade candle from your favorite local artisan, choose small. Choose independent. Choose quality.
Thanks for sticking with me through all the chaos. 2025 is already wild, but I’m excited for what’s ahead.
All my love,
Marissa
