Susie Sheldon Rush is the artist behind the cute cards of Oak and Arbor. Learn more about the paper-cut cards she creates below.
What neighborhood do you live in?
Point Breeze
Tell us about your brand and why it's the best
I strive to make everything that I create with love, attention to detail, and passion. I have been known to iterate endlessly until I am happy with the outcome. I'm not sure if that is a strength or a detriment, but it defines my creative process. My brand was created to keep connected and express love, kindness, and gratitude to loved ones. My work is from the heart and I hope that it shows in my product.
What is your background and the story behind why you started?
From a young age, I have been passionate about creating. I learned to knit and sew when I was a kid and I have always had a creative spirit. I loved art class in school and was always eager to try new art forms throughout childhood and adulthood. A friend and I even started a friendship bracelet making business as kids, so the maker business mindset started early for me.
In the early 2000s, I reconnected with knitting and fiber arts after a brief hiatus. The creativity started taking over. I attended several knitting festivals including Maryland Sheep and Wool and Rhinebeck (New York Sheep and Wool). I knew that I could put my love of knitting and sewing together and sewed some project bags which evolved to include cosmetics bags and all-purpose zipper pouches.
I have been exploring different creative mediums and started making greeting cards after my mom inspired the XOXO design and my mom and dad encouraged me to pursue a maker business. Ever since, I have been creating high quality cards and gifts made with love and care.
I left my full-time job in 2020 (non-profit and higher education management) to become a full-time mom and creative business owner of Oak & Arbor. A career in creating has always been a dream of mine, and now I am making it a reality. I am so grateful to my family for their love, support, and encouragement.
What one product do we need to know about and why?
My rainbow greeting cards are whimsical, fun, and universal. They can be used for any occasion and will be a unique and memorable greeting.
In three words, why do you love Pittsburgh?
People, Heart, Innovation
How can people find out more about you?
Website: https://oakandarborshop.com/
Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/oakandarbor
Instagram: @oakandarbor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oakandarbor/