We’re looking forward to introducing you to Marcy Gardner. Check out our conversation below.
Marcy, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What battle are you avoiding?
My 4-year-old sleeping in our bed.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Marcy Gardner, the designer behind Simply Hooked. I create beginner-friendly amigurumi crochet patterns that make it easy for crafters to bring plushie toys, stuffed animals, and lovey blankets to life. I picked up my first hook in 2012 and was instantly hooked on the art of crochet.
Today, I sell digital patterns through my website and Etsy, offer crochet kits, and teach through my Learn to Crochet online course. I also host Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast where I share my journey and connect with other creatives.
As a full-time working mom of two, I pour my early mornings and weekends into growing my business. I’m passionate about mindset, creativity, and building a life I love through both motherhood and entrepreneurship.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
That I was shy, weak, and not capable of doing big things—but I’ve learned I’m strong, resilient, and able to step out of my comfort zone to create the life I want.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
You don’t need to have life all figured out at 18. Do what makes *you* happy, even if it looks different or unconventional, and don’t feel pressured to follow the path everyone else says you should take. As you grow, you’ll discover passions you didn’t know you had, meet people who will shape your journey, and walk through ups and downs that mold you into who you’re meant to be. Give yourself permission to evolve, to change direction, and to trust that you don’t need a perfect plan—just an openness to what God, life, and the people around you will teach you along the way.”
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to becoming a full-time crochet designer, building a business that supports my family and creates a life of freedom and abundance. Some people might doubt that you can make a real living from crochet, but I believe persistence makes the impossible possible. No matter how long it takes, I will keep working toward this dream until it becomes my reality.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
I deeply understand that mindset is the key to success and that awareness unlocks potential. Most people don’t realize how much possibility exists because they aren’t fully aware of the opportunities around them—or the power within themselves. Too often, people stay on the traditional path of going to college, working a 9–5, or following what their parents did, even if it doesn’t bring them joy. For years, I didn’t even take my own dream of being a crochet designer seriously because I believed what others said—that it wasn’t possible, that it was just a hobby, or that it could never support a family. But when I became aware of others who were pursuing their art full-time and thriving, I realized God gave me this gift and desire for a reason. That awareness shifted everything. Now I’m committed to building a life I truly love—through my crochet business, my creativity, and my faith—and I want to show my two kids that they have the same power to create the life they’re called to live. even if no one “gets it.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marcymade.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyhooked1/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcy-gardner-232269145/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SimplyHooked1
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarcyMade
- Other: Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/simply-hooked-a-crochet-podcast/id1789775474
