Rising Stars: Meet Rhonda Hartman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhonda Hartman.

Hi Rhonda, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started a similar business in 2012, then stopped for a long time. At the end of 2019, I decided that I wanted to open a new business expanding on my earlier projects.

In April 2020, I launched Clothesline Apparel Co., and over the course of the past several years that morphed into Lust + Lore. We recently rebranded and changed our name to align more with the direction we want to go with this business.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has had its struggles which included a business coach that gave me some really bad advice. I’ve been digging myself out of that. I have learned a lot including that not everyone is in your corner. And like every small business or even large business sales aren’t always where I would like them to be.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I have a boutique, and I create all of the graphic tees, embroidered designs, and some of the jewelry myself. I design inspired by books, fandoms, and a cowgirl theme. A central theme of many of my designs is women’s empowerment. One thing that sets me apart from a lot of the bookish fandom shops is that I press each of the tees myself.

I also am licensed to design for several authors including Sarah J. Maas, TJ Deschamps, Jennifer L Armentrout, and Piper CJ.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My boyfriend deserves a ton of credit. He supports me in everything and makes sure I have all the necessary equipment to pursue my dreams. Also my mom. She was my first customer and continues to support me constantly.

Pricing:

• Tees $25-34
• Hoodies $40-65
• Crewnecks $40-65

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shoplustandlore.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/shoplustandlore
• Other: Tiktok.com/@shoplustandlore