Cumberland County has no shortage of residents with unique talents and independent spirits.
From artists to mechanics, office workers to outdoor professionals, these entrepreneurs showcase the best of what businesses in the county have to offer.
Every week, The Sentinel’s Small Business Spotlight will feature these people and share their stories.
Discover your local connection through this series that focuses on small business owners in your own backyard and highlights the services they provide for their community.
Jessica Pietro
Business Name: Vellichor and More
Years in business: 5 years
Location: Camp Hill
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Q: Why did you want to start this kind of business?
A: It has been one of my many dreams to make a living creating art, and when we decided it was best for our family for me to quit my full-time job so I could homeschool our son, it became the perfect solution to making some money on the side. As my business grows, I realize I want to help people feel seen. When I began making art (both painting and writing) from a place of deep feeling, pain and a history of trauma, I realized my story could touch people in ways I never thought possible. It has been such a blessing to connect with people on a deeper level and to help others learn that they are not alone.
Q: How did you get your start?
A: I began by teaching art classes and selling my artwork at local events.
Q: What does your business sell or provide?
A: I sell prints and stickers of my artwork, I teach art at local businesses, and I write books. I have three published now and a fourth coming out in January 2025. My fantasy series is called “The Great King and the Seer,” and “Seeking Elvyra” is book one. I also recently published a poetic memoir called “unfinished,” which is a picture of my struggle to find faith, peace and the true meaning of love.
Q: What is the biggest challenge you are facing right now?
A: Marketing. I’m sure most small businesses would agree. Social media is a tricky monster, plus, I really don’t want social media to be the foundation of my business. Instead, I am trying to build relationships with people and with other local businesses in the hopes that we can help each other grow. Eventually, I hope to have a wide enough customer base that I can help other artists and authors get their work out there. I want to teach other dreamers what I learn about owning and growing a small business, so they can make their dreams come true, too.
Q: What is your favorite thing to do or place in Cumberland County?
A: This isn’t business related, but we love the Yellow Breeches. Business-wise, I love how many small businesses we have that like to support other small businesses. There are plenty of shops selling local books and art, coffee shops willing to put artists on display and art/indie-centered activities.
It’s no surprise that young children are constantly asking the question “why?”. Research has now shown that children prefer to read books that explain how and why things happen.
Rachel Andreoli is the owner of Love Where You Live LLC.
