The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Business Spotlight: C. Depoy Design

Local Artist Carrie Depoy talks about her business C. Depoy Designs.

She will be at the Gazebo Art Festival in Chandler Park this weekend in Macomb from 9:00 AM- 4:00 PM.

Have you always loved to draw?

I have always loved to doodle (probably getting myself in trouble during classes).

I loved art class. I completed an art minor at WIU but knew there was talent I couldn’t ever compete with and ended up going a different direction.

In my 20’s I began doing some sign painting, and later started painting rocks as a way to kill time when we ran a bait and tackle shop.

When did you decide to start your business? Tell me what your first year was like.

Three or four years ago, I was staying at a cute Airbnb cottage and decided to draw it and leave as a thank you for the host.

I ordered cardstock and began doing this whenever we stayed places.

Someone asked me if I’d ever considered sketching old buildings in Macomb and I thought that could be fun.

After I’d done about 20 different cards, I contacted Lynne at the Community News & Market and she welcomed me to sell at her shop.

People have told me they purchase them because they are light weight, reference the area, reasonable price, and done by a local person.

My first year, and even now, is trial and error. I have learned the importance of weights for canopies, the challenge outside with rain and wind (and my cards blowing everywhere).

Trying to choose a business name, setting up accounts, figuring out sales tax process, ID number, realizing a home copier was not the most practical method for printing(then locating a printer).

I have researched tips from other experienced vendors and continue to learn, all while reinvesting to improve my business.

What is your most popular drawing right now?

The most purchased cards include Maidrite, both theaters, Vishnu Springs, and Ford Hopkins.

Where do you sell your drawings?

I now have nearly 100 cards to choose from. All can be found to view on my Facebook or Instagram page (C. Depoy Designs).

I do not have a website. I also do special orders of businesses, houses, etc..