Why I Left Holly Pixels—and Why I’m Back

Hey… it’s been a while.

Almost three years, actually.

If you’re still here, hi. If you’re new, welcome. And if you’re somewhere in between—wondering what happened—I figured it was time to finally sit down and share the story.

Why I Walked Away

A few years ago, I made the decision to step away from Holly Pixels.

At the time, it wasn’t an easy choice—but it was a necessary one. My heart just wasn’t in it anymore. The constant cycle of teaching, filming, editing, creating courses, and staying on top of everything… it was exhausting. What started as something I loved had turned into something that felt overwhelming.

So I let it go.

And with that decision came something I didn’t fully expect: I lost everything tied to it. All my videos, products, and course materials were stored on a hard drive that’s now gone. I still get messages asking if there’s any way to access past content—and I truly wish I could help—but I just don’t have it anymore.

That chapter is closed.

But walking away? Honestly—it felt really good.

What the Last Three Years Looked Like

Even though I stepped away from that version of my business, I never stopped creating.

I’ve still been deeply rooted in the creative world—just in a different way.

My laser business, Aspen and Lark evolved into something much bigger than I expected. It’s now focused primarily on licensed sorority merchandise, where I create engraved and cut products using both CO₂ and fiber lasers. Over time, I’ve expanded into jewelry, stickers, notepads, and more.

I also run a few smaller Etsy shops on the side, where I experiment with different creative ideas—especially during slower seasons.

And throughout all of it, illustration has stayed with me.

I’ve continued working on illustrations, surface pattern design, and creative projects for others. That part of me never went away—it just shifted.

The Moment That Sparked Something New

Earlier this year, I hosted a virtual “doodle night” for my sorority’s alumnae group.

It was simple. Just a fun Valentine-themed drawing session.

But it did something unexpected—it reminded me how much I enjoy sharing creativity… just not in the way I used to.

I realized I don’t want to go back to filming courses or being on camera all the time. That season of my life is over.

But I do still love teaching—just in a quieter, more sustainable way.

A New Way to Create (and Share)

That realization led to something new.

This week, I’m launching a beginner-friendly “How to Draw Bows” guide book.

It might sound simple, but bows have become one of my favorite things to draw. If you’ve seen my work lately, you’ve probably noticed—they’re everywhere.

This book is my way of blending both sides of what I love:

• Illustration
• Teaching (without the burnout)

It’s approachable, creative, and meant to be fun.

Coming Back—With Boundaries

Recently, I got a notification that someone was trying to access my IG account. That’s what brought me back here in the first place.

After updating my password, I started scrolling through my old posts… and I felt it—that nostalgia. All the time, energy, and creativity I poured into this space.

And I realized something:

I don’t want to erase that.

This account is an archive. A record of where I’ve been. And I’m proud of that.

But I’m also not going back.

• I’m not teaching digital planning anymore
• I’m not reopening courses
• I don’t have access to old products

This is a clean slate, but not a rewrite of history.

So… What Now?

I’m here again—but differently.

I’ll be sharing more of my illustration work, creative projects, and the things I’m currently building. No pressure, no content treadmill—just showing up when it feels right.

If you want to stick around, I’d love to have you.

If not, that’s okay too.

Life Lately

Outside of work, life has been… full.

There’s been loss, change, and growth. We said goodbye to Daisy and Lola. Our grandmother passed. My family went through a season of living together that, while meaningful, was also stressful.

These days, it’s just me and my mom here in Colorado. She helps me with my business, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.

I also volunteer with my sorority at a district level, supporting public relations across multiple chapters—which has been really rewarding.

And yes—I do have a new dog. His name is Walter.

Final Thoughts

So that’s where I’ve been.

Not gone—just evolving.

I’m excited to step back into this space in a way that actually feels aligned with who I am now.

If you have questions, want to reconnect, or are just curious about what’s next—I’m here.

And this time, I’m doing things differently.

— Thanks for being here.