"THE GOODS"

an E-Newsletter by Whittick's Curated Goods

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MAY 2026 | ISSUE 4 | VOLUME 1

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✨ WHAT’S GOOD?

Hey gurl hey ✨

April has been full — in the best kind of way.

We’ve been out in the community a little more than usual, spending time at both Leander and Cedar Park Pride, and if there’s one thing we walked away with, it’s this: there is nothing like being surrounded by people who just get it. The energy, the conversations, the connections… it all reminded us why we do what we do in the first place.

It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day — orders, inventory, planning, building — but stepping out and actually being with people, hearing their stories, seeing what they’re creating, and sharing what we love… that hits different.

And speaking of creating — we hosted our second Whittick’s Weekly, The Witch, The Broom & Moonlit Blooms, and y’all… what a moment.

Not only did that design turn out AMAZING (and we mean WOW), but it was also our dear friend Shona’s very first time going live on TikTok. And she absolutely did her thing. It was fun, it was creative, and it just felt right.

We’re starting to find a rhythm with these lives — and when things begin to click like that, you feel it. Now if we could just get about 1,000 more hours in a day, we’d really be onto something. 😉

We also spent some time transitioning one of our regular install locations — our local mail center — from Easter into 4th of July décor. This is one of those partnerships we truly love, where we supply seasonal décor, hang our wreaths, and place our centerpieces so the owners don’t have to worry about a thing.

What started as a simple collaboration has really started to grow into something more. More people are recognizing our work, asking about pieces, and realizing that what’s on display is actually available for purchase.

Little by little, we’re building. We’re diversifying. We’re growing.

And those moments — the quiet, steady kind — matter just as much as the big ones.

And honestly? Things are good. Just… really good.

Because underneath everything — the products, the lives, the ideas — this has always been about connection. About creating something that feels like you. About finding your people and building something meaningful together.

And if April is any indication… May is gearing up to be just as full — if not busier — and honestly? We love it.

And lately, it feels like things are starting to line up in a way that just makes sense. Not perfect, not polished — but intentional. Focused. Ours.

And that feels really, really good.

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Floral Edit: What We’re Loving Right Now

Let’s talk florals.

And not just any florals — the kind that actually make a difference in your designs.

Because here’s the thing… not all artificial florals are created equal. And we’re picky for a reason.

When we’re sourcing, we’re not just grabbing what’s available — we’re looking for pieces that feel elevated, versatile, and actually usable across multiple designs. Greens that layer well. Florals that don’t look flat. Textures that bring movement and dimension. The kind of elements that take something from “that’s cute” to “okay wait… I need that.”

And if you’ve been with us for a bit, you already know — we love finding those pieces that not everyone else has. That’s part of the fun. That’s part of the magic.

We’ve been adding some really beautiful new florals, greens, picks, and sprays into our lineup lately — and while we’re still very much in the spring-to-summer mindset, we are absolutely already thinking ahead.

Fall. Christmas. All of it.

(And yes… we are officially running out of space. 😂)

But when we find something good, we’re bringing it in — because we know how important it is to have materials that work with you, not against you.

One of the biggest things we look for? Versatility.

Multi-seasonal pieces are popular for a reason — and there are certain staples that just work year-round. Think eucalyptus as your go-to base (it truly goes with everything), hydrangeas for volume and texture, roses for endless color flexibility, and magnolia foliage for that rich, polished look that holds up in any season.

And then you’ve got your fillers — soft lavender tones, baby’s breath, berry sprays — the pieces that can completely shift the feel of a design depending on how you use them.

That’s where the magic really happens.

Because when you start with a strong, neutral base — greens, creams, soft dusty tones — you can build and evolve your designs without starting from scratch every single time. Swap in seasonal accents, layer in color, change the mood… and suddenly one piece becomes three, four, or five different looks.

That’s how you design smarter.

And it’s also why we lean hard into quality — especially with things like real-touch florals. If it looks real, feels real, and holds its structure, you’re not replacing it every season… you’re building on it.

And that matters — for your creativity and your bottom line.

We’ve got some incredible finds in store for upcoming sales and lives, and we cannot wait to start sharing more of them with you.

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There Is a Reason Behind Everything

BY MICAH BITTICK, CO-OWNER & CREATIVE

At Whittick’s Design Collective, nothing we do is by chance. There is a reason behind everything.

From the way we carefully pack each box and wrap every designer ribbon, to the way we run our sales, to how we answer every message that comes through our inbox… there is intention. There is heart. There is a reason.

We started this journey with one simple mission: to bring beautiful, meaningful treasures into the lives of others. But more than that, we built this business on how we believe people deserve to be treated. We treat every customer the way we would want our own mothers to be treated—with kindness, patience, honesty, and care.

The truth is, so much of who we are comes from them. Our mothers instilled in us the power of kindness, an eye for design, and the belief that every single detail matters. They were impeccable in their taste and in the way they did everything. From holidays to birthdays, nothing was ever small—it was always an experience, an extravaganza filled with love and intention. That influence lives in everything we create today. This is the reason we are the way we are.

L: SHIRLEY, JIMMY'S MOM & R: BETSY, MICAH'S MOM & TABITHA, MICAH'S SISTER

Every detail matters to us. We scent our boxes with the fragrance of the season to bring an extra smile to your face the moment they’re opened. We wrap our designer ribbons with intention, letting each one reflect its own unique style—because even the smallest touches should feel special. There is a reason for it all.

We are also deeply intentional about who we keep in our inner circle. The people—and products—we support are chosen with care. After our own trials and tribulations, we’ve learned not to partner or collaborate lightly. We take the time to truly get to know the person behind the product before we stand behind them. Because trust matters. Integrity matters. And yes… there is a reason.

We also understand that life happens. Sometimes people need an extra day, a little grace, a bit of understanding. While there will always be boundaries and structure, we don’t believe in embarrassing or chastising anyone—especially not publicly. We’ve heard the horror stories, and that’s exactly why we choose to do things differently. We lead with compassion and work to resolve situations with dignity and respect.

That same respect extends to fellow vendors and creators. We honor the work of others and do our best not to step on toes. We are not perfect—but we believe deeply in treating others the right way, even when it’s not the easiest path.

Our values run deeper than what you see on the surface. We are proud supporters of equal rights for all, and we are passionate advocates for suicide prevention. This cause is incredibly personal to us. On March 16, 2023, we lost my sister to depression. Since that day, not a single day has gone by that we haven’t honored her in some way. You’ll often notice touches of purple woven into our designs, packaging, or branding—because purple was her favorite color. That, too, has a reason.

And then… there are the penguins.

You’ll see them throughout our brand, and especially in our logo. Why penguins? Because they represent everything we stand for:Loyalty. Uniqueness. Community. Resilience.

Penguins may have wings, but they swim instead of fly. And to us, that says everything.

They remind us that it’s perfectly okay to do things differently. To follow your own path. To trust your instincts, even when they go against expectations.

They inspire us—and we hope they inspire you—to embrace what makes you different. Because there is something incredibly beautiful about living life in your own, unconventional way.

This business is more than products. It’s people. It’s purpose. It’s heart.

And it means everything to us that you see us not just as a company—but as one that truly cares.

So the next time you receive a package from us, notice the details. The scent. The ribbon. The care. The story.

Because behind every choice we make, there is a clearly defined purpose..... there is a reason

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✨ The Curated Creator — Introducing Something New

This month, we’re introducing something that’s been on our hearts for a while…

🖤 The Curated Creator

A space where we get to highlight the people behind the creativity — their stories, their journeys, and the heart behind what they create.  Each month we will feature someone from our community. 

Because this community has never just been about products or designs.It’s about people — the connections we make, the support we give, and the way we continue to show up for each other along the way.

And honestly… there was no way we could start this by featuring just one.

April and Shona are both creators we met during our very first Summer Camp — a weekend that turned into something so much bigger than we ever imagined. What came out of that space wasn’t just creativity… it was connection, friendship, and the kind of relationships that truly last.

But beyond that — they’ve become such an important part of our journey, too.

If you’ve joined us on any of our lives, you’ve seen them right there with us — helping keep everything running smoothly, staying on top of comments, answering questions, and making sure we can stay focused on creating and connecting. They bring a level of support, care, and presence that we don’t take for granted for even a second.

They keep us grounded. They keep us organized. And they show up — every single time.

And somewhere along the way, they became more than supporters… they became friends.

These two represent what this community is all about. Different journeys, different styles — but the same heart, resilience, and passion behind what they do.

So for this very first Curated Creator feature… we’re doing things a little differently.

And we couldn’t think of two better people to start with.

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🖤 The Curated Creator: Shona Brown

Gifted Hands by Shona | Lake Jackson, Texas

Some creators step into this space with talent.

Others step into it with purpose.

Shona Brown is both.

We met Shona at our very first Summer Camp — and from the moment we connected, we knew she was someone special. What started as a shared creative experience quickly turned into something more — real friendship, genuine support, and a bond that now extends beyond just this space. Getting to know Shona, her husband Chris, and her daughter Bri has been one of the true highlights of this journey for us.

✨ Her Story

Shona’s creative journey didn’t start yesterday — it’s been woven through her life for years.

From scrapbooking and invitations to running a full party design business while homeschooling her children, she built something entirely on her own — creativity was always part of who she is.

But life shifted.

After being diagnosed with osteoarthritis and allodynia, the detailed, hands-on work she loved became physically painful. What she had built became something she had to step away from — and that kind of loss doesn’t come easy.

What followed was a season of depression, anxiety, and healing.

But here’s where Shona’s story changes.

Instead of staying stuck, she chose to move forward.

She found inspiration, she learned, she showed up — and eventually, she picked up the tools again… just in a different way.

And when she did?

She thrived.

🌿 What She Creates

Shona now designs wreaths and swags, bringing bold creativity and confidence into every piece.

Her inspiration is rooted in:

• Color and theme-driven design 

• Layering high-quality materials

• Pushing beyond what “should” work and creating something unexpected

Her signature style is all about strong focal points and intentional layering — designs that feel full, balanced, and thoughtfully executed.

🎀 The Details We Love

• Favorite Ribbon Brands: D’Lux & D. Stevens

• Go-To Color: Purple 💜 

• Preferred Width: 2.5"

Her process is intuitive and fearless — starting with a focal point, building her ribbon story, and letting her imagination take over from there.

And her soundtrack of choice?

👉 Rap music.

(We love a queen who builds with a beat 😌)

💜 Why She Creates

Shona creates because she had to find her way back to herself.

What started as a way to cope became a way to rebuild — her confidence, her creativity, and her joy.

And now?

She’s not just creating again — she’s growing, evolving, and stepping fully into her next chapter.

🌟 A Few Highlights

• Attending her first Summer Camp and diving into color theory (and absolutely running with it)

• Building skills and confidence that completely transformed her designs

• And… one of our personal favorites — going LIVE for the very first time with us during a Whittick’s Weekly creation event

That moment?

Huge.

And she showed up like she’d been doing it for years.

👩‍👧‍👦 Life Outside the Craft

Shona is a wife to her husband Chris of over 26 years, a mom to two adult children, and someone who deeply values family, home, and time together.

When she’s not creating, you’ll likely find her cooking, traveling, or planning her next cruise — living life fully and intentionally.

✨ Her Advice

👉 Start small. Embrace your imperfections. Focus on learning — not perfection.

And honestly? That right there is the foundation of everything.

🤍 From Us to Her

Shona’s journey is one of resilience, growth, and choosing to keep going — even when it wasn’t easy.

We are so incredibly proud of you — not just for what you create, but for how you got here.

And getting to be part of your first live?

That’s something we’ll never forget 💜

🛍️ Support Shona

• Etsy: MyGiftedHandsbyShona

• TikTok, Facebook & Instagram: Gifted Hands by Shona

✨ Use code GIFTED for a special offer

Go show her some love — she’s just getting started.

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🖤 The Curated Creator: April Harlow

Mimi’s Wreaths By Design | Buena Vista, Virginia

Some creators you meet and instantly know — they’re building something from the heart.

April Harlow is one of those people.

We had the pleasure of meeting April at our very first Summer Camp — a weekend that turned into so much more than just creating. It became a space filled with connection, encouragement, and the kind of friendships that last well beyond the event itself. April was part of that from the very beginning, and we’re so grateful our paths crossed in that room.

✨ Her Story

April’s journey didn’t start with confidence — it started with frustration.

After purchasing wreaths that didn’t hold up the way she hoped, she got curious. She started watching, learning, and eventually decided to try it for herself.

Now, nearly two years later, she’s built something that goes far beyond the finished product. Creating has become a space for her to slow down, focus, and find a sense of calm — something that’s just as important as the designs themselves.

🌿 What She Creates

April designs wreaths, swags, and centerpieces, with a natural love for seasonal design — especially fall and Christmas.

Her inspiration comes from:

• The changing seasons

• Ideas from friends and family

• A love for soft, neutral color palettes

When it comes to her style, she’ll be the first to tell you it’s hard to define — because every piece is different. But if there’s one thing that ties it all together, it’s this:

She genuinely cares about every single design she creates.

And that shows.

🎀 The Details We Love

• Favorite Ribbon Brand: Nancy Brown

• Go-To Colors: Neutrals

• Preferred Style: 3" and smaller — structured, easy to work, and versatile

Her process is thoughtful and familiar — starting with a theme or focal point, building out the base, layering in textures, and then stepping back to tweak and refine until everything feels just right.

And of course… TV on (muted), music playing — because that’s just part of the rhythm.

💜 Why She Creates

This part matters.

For April, creating is more than a creative outlet — it’s something that helps her manage anxiety and stay grounded. It gives her a space to focus, breathe, and pour her energy into something positive.

And that’s exactly the kind of purpose behind creating that we will always stand behind.

🌟 A Few Highlights

• Seeing her wreaths featured at a local event

• Holding onto her very first fall pancake wreath (as she should)

• Donating pieces to support local fundraisers and individuals in need

Because for April, this isn’t just about making something beautiful — it’s about showing up for others, too.

👩‍👧‍👧 Life Outside the Craft

April is a mom of two daughters, a proud Mimi to two grandkids (including one who apparently thinks she’s grown — we love that energy 😂), and a dog mom to a nearly 3-year-old German Shepherd.

She’s built a life rooted in family — and now, creativity has become a meaningful part of that story.

✨ Her Advice

👉 Practice, practice, practice — and never give up.

Simple. Honest. And exactly what someone out there needs to hear.

🤍 From Us to Her

April represents everything we love about this community — showing up, growing through the process, and creating with intention and heart.

We’re so glad we met you, and even more grateful to have you as part of this space.

And yes… we’re absolutely still talking about that collaboration 💜

🛍️ Support April

• Etsy: mimiswreathsbydesign.etsy.com

• TikTok: @mimiswreathsbydesign

• Facebook & Instagram: Mimi’s Wreaths By Design

Go show her some love — you’ll be glad you did.

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🖤 THE LAST WORD

This month feels a little more personal — especially with May 4th marking Micah’s birthday.

We’re celebrating him — and not in the “grab a cake and keep it moving” kind of way. This one makes you pause for a second.

Because 27+ years of friendship? That’s not casual. That’s not surface-level. That’s life.

That’s more than half of our lives.

We’ve been through everything — the kind of things that shape you. Loss. Hard seasons. Big wins. Moments where you have no clue what you’re doing… and moments where everything finally starts to click. And through all of it, one thing has never changed:

We’ve always been there for each other.

And as he continues his very important journey of catching up to me in age (because let’s be clear… I am no longer aging 😌), I’ve found myself really taking a step back lately and just… appreciating him for who he is.

Because he’s been through some stuff. Real stuff.

The kind of things that could make someone shut down or pull back.

And somehow… that’s not who he is.

He still shows up the same way — selfless, thoughtful, always thinking about other people. He’s got a heart of gold, and once you’ve earned his trust and his friendship… that’s it.

You’ve got him.

For life.

No questions. No conditions.

And that’s rare.

Like… really rare.

And it’s not something I take for granted — not even a little bit.

Because not everyone gets a friendship like that. Not everyone gets someone who has seen every version of you — the good, the messy, the figuring-it-out — and still stands right there beside you.

So this month, we celebrate him.

Not just the birthday.Not just the milestone.

But the person.

The loyalty.The heart.The consistency.The quiet strength that doesn’t always need to be loud to be felt.

And somewhere along the way, you start to realize something:

Finding your joy…Finding your place…Finding your peace…

It doesn’t always happen quickly.

Sometimes it takes years. Sometimes it takes going through things you never saw coming. Sometimes it takes losing your footing a few times before you figure out where you actually belong.

But when you’ve got the right people beside you?

You don’t stay lost for long.

And when you find it — that place, that feeling, that peace — you hold onto it.

Because it’s not accidental.

It’s earned.

So if you could today, take a quick second and send him a Happy Birthday message — I’d really appreciate it. He certainly deserves all the love in the world.

You can email him at:

📧 micah@whittickscg.com

THAT'S ALL FOR NOW --