melding books and botany.
her two favourites things.
You might be surprised learning that I haven't always been a big reader. When I was younger, my parents were concerned that I didn't seem interested in reading, so they bought me a book series called "The Beacon Street Girls". You may have heard of it. That series was a turning point for me. I felt like an adult, sitting down and devouring large chunks of the novel at a time. It felt so good. Nancy Drew came later, and although I liked books... I won't lie and tell you I read all 52. But, hey, I might have, if I had had them at the time! But, as you know, finding old novels is not as easy or inexpensive as one might hope.
Moving forward, when I was twelve, my love for books had continued to the point where I hand-painted bookmarks on bristol paper (I remember every step fondly) and listed them online to sell after my mom helped me take photos. Book lovers from all over the world bought them... well... the truth is, my mom's friends from her Etsy Shop gave this little girl some support. Back then, in those days, I was "Sensible Sarah" - don't ask me why that was my shop name. Other than the bliss of hearing alliteration, I'm not too sure.
Anyways, those days came and went. For years afterward, my artwork didn't see beyond the pages of my sketchbook. But, one thing didn't stop: my love for books. So month after month, year after year, I'd hone in my artistic skills, drawing botanicals and portraits, random still life, etc. all the while, having a book on the go. I was raised to enjoy multiple hobbies, so the progress is quite slow. "Jack of all trades, master of none", you could say.
Once 2020 came, that all changed. I was ready. To share my art again. An important element of art is the process. But, I found without the added element of sharing it with others, it seemed short of a bigger purpose. I used the next couple years enjoying being able to share my art with others on Etsy again, and connecting with other's online.
I took a break in 2022 to deal with some circumstances beyond my control. Later, I got married in 2024. After about a year of adjusting to marriage and a new job, I started having more free time on my hands... and that itch to return to my Botany Babes "baby" as I call it, was still there, practically pulling at my arms!
When I returned, I noticed some change was needed. Yes, my art had a purpose being shared as instant downloads so people can print them at home. In fact, it offered a fast and inexpensive alternative - and for now, I still offer this as an option. But, I knew I needed more.
So, 2026 has been a fresh start for me... a new page, if you don't mind the pun. It's too relevant, I had to go for it.
Starting this year, I have partnered with a reputable company to provide such exciting goodies for bibliophiles like myself. These are items that I wish I would have had my hands on all these years! They showcase the artwork in a beautiful fashion, and make my pieces come to life in a personal way. They can be delivered straight into your hands - and to me, that's the most exciting part!
Packing up the bookmarks that sold when I was twelve, knowing that something I made was going to end up somewhere across the world, in someone else's hands, to be used everyday in their unique lives, was an inexplicable feeling of joy for me. I believe that's what makes this experience on Etsy more special than even a brick and mortar shop.
I am so happy to be able to ship my creations again - this time, in a more expansive way and not just limited to bookmarks. I have mugs, sweatshirts, notebooks, pin buttons, book bags, the list goes on! Basically, anything a bookworm would have a desire for, it is my wish to have it in stock embellished with that Botany Babe flair. :)
So, please enjoy! If you have any questions, you can message me directly. We can bond over our love of books, smell of paper, etc. Consider me your online gift boutique, the place you go when you need a little something for yourself, something to get you back into that novel you're trying to finish by the library's deadline, or when your book nerd friend did something nice and you want to return the favour with something meaningful.
My hope is that the feeling you get when you put on an episode of Gilmore Girls and hear that theme song, is the feeling you get when you come to my shop here 'around the corner'.
That cozy Gilmore Girls bookshop... has turned digital.
Thanks for your amazing support. Know that I appreciate each and every contribution and that it motivates me to keep going... as if my love for books wasn't enough ;)
sarina martina
the botany babe
