Branded Sourcing
Stoneground Custom Watercolor Paints
Category: Branded Sourcing
Sourcing that aligned with sustainability, craftsmanship, and brand storytelling
The Challenge
We needed a custom watercolor partner who could uphold Archer & Olive’s high aesthetic standards while meeting our growing demand for eco-conscious, artisan-quality art supplies. Existing suppliers couldn’t deliver on both brand voice and values—so I expanded our vendor search to find the right long-term partner.
My Role
I identified and initiated a partnership with a small-batch watercolor manufacturer in Canada who sourced materials locally and mixed pigments by hand. I led the relationship from discovery through product development, managing communication, samples, custom pigment selection, and launch coordination. I also introduced this vendor to an in-house artist I collaborated with, which led to additional branded product lines beyond our team.
Strategy & Process
Researched and vetted watercolor suppliers based on quality, sustainability, and small-batch capabilities
Managed the full communication lifecycle from outreach through production
Worked closely with the vendor and creative team to create custom Archer & Olive-branded color palettes
Ensured brand consistency across packaging, naming, and color tone
Facilitated the connection between vendor and artist to support future collabs
Outcome
Successfully launched custom-branded watercolor sets that aligned with our seasonal campaigns
Strengthened our product line with a unique, story-driven offering not available through mass suppliers
Built a lasting vendor relationship that supported future product launches, both with and beyond our team
What I Learned
The best sourcing isn’t transactional—it’s relational. When you find a vendor who shares your values and vision, the products speak for themselves.
Winter Advent Calendar
Category: Branded Sourcing
Agile planning and sourcing to deliver a customer-first experience on a tight timeline
The Challenge
We needed to plan, design, and produce a full Advent Box within just 60 days—a tight window in the busiest retail season of the year. The product had to feel festive, high-value, and exciting for our subscriber base, while remaining budget-conscious to align with customer spending behavior during the holidays.
My Role
I sourced a trusted advent box vendor I had worked with before and led the entire product planning and coordination process. I selected items that could be manufactured and delivered quickly—without compromising on brand fit or customer delight. I also managed internal timelines, approvals, and vendor logistics to ensure the box would ship on time.
Strategy & Process
Chose a proven packaging format to streamline box manufacturing
Selected fill items that were brand-aligned, cost-effective, and quick to produce
Built the collection with a balance of usefulness, visual appeal, and seasonal charm
Communicated across design, marketing, and fulfillment to keep everyone aligned
Prioritized fast production timelines without sacrificing brand experience
Outcome
Delivered a fully custom, 24-item Advent Box in under 60 days
Maintained high subscriber satisfaction while keeping costs low
Showed strong engagement and retention, even during a season of consumer budget-tightening
Reinforced the brand’s value through thoughtful curation and timing
What I Learned
Speed doesn’t have to come at the expense of experience. With the right planning and partners, even a last-minute product can feel intentional, memorable, and on-brand.