2028 + Nursing

Owner of Styled Spirited by Riley

Styled Spirited is a piece of my heart, as it is a product of untamed stress from moving to college, along with hardships with my physical health. I needed an artistic outlook. So I channeled these emotions, and used my passion for graphic design to create Styled Spirited by Riley! Each button is carefully designed with creativity and character in mind, blending artistry with personality to add a touch of “you” to any outfit, accessory, or project.

2027 + Marketing

Owner of LoveLem

I created Made By Lauren in an effort to create handmade and affordable jewelry and gifts. I find inspiration through trends and from the perspective of a college student who is looking to stay trendy while on a budget.

2027 + Graphic Design

Owner of Floral Creations By Jenna

Floral Creations by Jenna specializes in handcrafted decorative pipe cleaner flower designs. My brand is all about spreading happiness through art. I focus on creating vibrant, long-lasting floral pieces that capture the beauty of nature in a unique, whimsical way. Each piece is crafted with care with close attention to detail, ensuring a wonderful experience for every customer.

2027 + Social Work

Owner of Sew Emma

I hope my products bring feelings of creativity and joy. Because each item is handmade, I want people to feel like they are unique and thoughtfully made and can add happiness to their day. Being able to do what I love and seeing someone’s reaction to receiving a gift is very rewarding.

2028 + Honors Interdisciplinary Studies

Owner of Riles Designs Co.

In 2020, our world hit pause, but my mind hit go. While nurses were fighting to save lives on the frontlines, I was compelled to take the bad and turn it into good. I started making bracelets to give out to nurses with encouraging words on them. The feeling of impacting each nurse evoked a new drive in my heart, something I was inspired to chase after at a young age. This passion project inspired me to create a business selling jewelry in which I donate a portion of the proceeds to causes close to my heart: Childhood Cancer Research, Cystic Fibrosis Research, and Autism Awareness.

2026 + Communication Sciences & Disorders

Owner of Signed by Syd

I hope to provide a way to brighten people’s day and give them a reason to smile. I also love creating custom orders for people and seeing their reaction to a meaningful gift :)

2027 + Marketing

Owner of the Golden Daisy

My business just emphasizes that anyone can do anything they want! I began this business right after covid began so I was super bored and decided why not buy an iPad and start creating? So that is what I did! I want people to go for their dreams and pursue them even if they’re small because it is SO important for people to find what they love the most.

2028 + Communication Sciences & Disorders

Owner of E for Earrings

This business was founded on my two favorite things; helping others, & DIY! As a member of the autistic community, & a frequent volunteer in my communities, my goal is to provide unique & affordable earring designs, while half of all my profits are spent ensuring accessible services to low income families with disabled children & handicapped elders, & the spread of Autism Awareness. 

2029 + Elementary Education

Owner of Forever Bloom

Forever Bloom is a handmade small business dedicated to creating beautiful, everlasting gifts that bring joy long after fresh flowers fade. Every pipe cleaner flower bouquet is carefully handcrafted, making each piece unique. Founded by a college student with a passion for creativity and entrepreneurship, Forever Bloom was built on the idea that meaningful gifts don't have to be temporary. Every product is made with care, creativity, and the hope of making someone smile.

2028 + Graphic Design

Owner of Made by Tess

Made by Tess is all about creating jewelry that is fun, personal, and affordable. I love experimenting with different colors, beads, and charms to create pieces that can fit anyone’s individual style. I hope to share a sense of creativity and individuality through my jewelry, and I want people to feel excited when they find a piece that represents their personality or reminds them of something meaningful.

2028 + Nursing

Owner of Sunfolk

I hope to share the raw beauty of the ocean through naturally imperfect and unique pieces, all crafted with hand-chosen shells. From each wear, I want people to feel grounded and connected to the sea, despite how far away they may be. 

2028 + Art

Owner of Painting by Claire

Painting by Claire is all about creating watercolor and acrylic paintings that bring a sense of adventure. Through my business I hope to share happiness and create pieces that make people smile and joyful. With my artwork featuring flowers, sea shells, landscapes, and more, my brand is made to showcase God’s creation.

2027 + Theater Performance and Design/Technology

Owner of Whimstone Creations

Whimstone Creations aims to make whimsical designs using natural stone beads that highlight the beauty of the natural world and help to balance one’s energy. I want to help give my customers the opportunity to appreciate earth’s natural beauty through the crystal jewelry I create. If more people are wearing the earth, hopefully we can learn to better appreciate the earth with natural jewelry and nautral beauty.

2028 + Social Work

Owner of Soft Starts

Soft Starts is a small business selling handmade shower fizzies at affordable prices. I really want to drive home the importance of self-care. Sometimes the smallest acts of care, such as the regular shower or a favorite scent, can make the day feel a bit more manageable. Self-care doesn’t have to be complex. With Soft Starts, even a quick shower can be a chance to relax, breathe, and rejuvenate. 

2030 + Psychology

Owner of Kiley Bugs Creations

Through my business I want to offer comfort and happiness to everyone. By offering unique plushies and items for all, I hope to make people smile and have them feel like they have something unique and comforting just for them. The most rewarding part of my creative process is finishing that last stitch and having the completed project. Seeing the look on peoples faces when they see my stuffed animals, or when they custom order something always makes my day.

2029 + Special Education

Owner of Pinned by Seraphine

I really hope my business brings people genuine joy and happiness! I care a lot about how my customers feel, and it makes me happy to know that something I created can make someone smile or feel excited. My main goal with my business is to meet new people, make connections, and share something I genuinely love doing with others!

2028 + Hospitality & Business

Owner of Artzona Creates

My business has impacted my experience as a student by it being a tool to calm down, relax, and keep my creativity flowing. Finding out about the printing center opened a whole new world of art prints.

2028 + Psychology

I have always loved baking for as long as I can remember. When I became gluten free a few years ago, I knew I wanted to create a brand that stands out. After trying many gluten free products I wanted to create something that people can enjoy and not even know it’s gluten free. I hope to some day start a small business once I graduate outside of JMU and to spread the love of Jesus with what I make.

2027 + Geography

Owner of Duke Dog Dough

I want to give people a little pick me up when they get a taste of a cinnamon roll, having a nice little sweet treat, especially one that's a unique flavor is something that lifts spirits in a flavorful way! It has been a completely new (and kinda scary) experience to begin starting a business. However, the student-made community makes things a whole lot less intimidating because you know there are other students who have gone through the same thing and who are always there ready to help!

2027 + History & Studio Art

Owner of ICLF

I hope to bring joy and happiness to people through my work. Whether it's the jewelry or other ceramic pieces, I hope that they inspire joy in the recipients- either to keep or to use as a gift.