Your Questions, Answered
Photography
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My photography sessions typically range between $100–$400, depending on the length of time, number of images, and type of session. I offer everything from family photography and couple sessions to maternity, newborn, and branding photography.
Wedding photography begins at $1,500 and goes up to $4,000, depending on coverage, location, and any extras you’d like. Whether you’re planning a wedding Alabama, a destination elopement, or a full-day celebration, I create a plan that fits your vision.
✨Sometimes, sessions don’t cost dollars at all. I happily trade for goods or services if it’s the right fit. If you have a skill, service, or goods that feel like a good exchange, I’m open to bartering.
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Absolutely. I believe professional photography should be accessible. I offer flexible payment plans and ways for you to earn discounts for weddings and portrait sessions so you can spread out your investment and have a payment schedule that works for you.
Please note that no photographs will be taken or released until the payment has been completed in full.
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You and your story are unique! I don’t believe they should be boxed into one-size-fits-all pricing or a cookie-cutter package. We’ll chat about the type of experience you’re dreaming of, how many photos you want, and what budget you’re working with. From there, I custom build each session for what fits your needs.
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Yes. We are a licensed business in Alabama, although the state has no special requirements for photography companies.
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Turnaround depends on the type of session and how many galleries are ahead of you in my lineup. They can take anywhere from 1–6 weeks. Most galleries are delivered quickly and because of that, I usually don’t send previews. You’ll receive the full gallery before you know it.
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Yes! Travel within 45 miles of Talladega, Alabama is included in every session. Beyond that, a travel fee applies. I also travel worldwide for destination weddings, elopements, and portrait sessions. If your story takes us across the globe, I’ll meet you there.
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Yes. Once I deliver your gallery, the photos are yours to keep. You’ll receive high-resolution digital images with full printing rights. You don’t have to purchase additional prints (though I do offer professional print options if you’d like heirloom-quality albums or wall art).
You are welcome to share your images! But Please, Do NOT submit, use filters on, or re-edit any of the images!
Kindly tag The Sol Creative Co. in any images you share on social media.
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For most sessions, it’s just me. However, for weddings or larger events, a second shooter can be hired for additional coverage. They are perfect for capturing multiple angles and moments.
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Your session should feel like you. While I recommend steering clear of neon colors, loud graphics, or bold prints that pull focus from your face, I’ll never put you in a box. If needed, I can provide you with a Style Guide that has tips on what will photograph beautifully for your session, and for clients who want more direction, I can create a Custom Vision Board tailored to your story. The goal: timeless photos that feel authentic, not staged.
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I always recommend booking early. Especially if you’re planning for a specific season, milestone, or weekend. My calendar fills quickly, and reserving ahead ensures you get your dream date. That said, I occasionally have last-minute openings. If spontaneity is your thing, reach out!! I might have the perfect slot waiting.
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This depends on the session we design together. During our consultation, we’ll decide how many images you’d like. You’ll always receive that number, plus all the beautiful, unplanned gems that show up naturally along the way. My promise: you’ll never feel like I held back on delivering the moments that matter.
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Your finished images will be delivered via an online gallery link that will be available for six months so you can download them at your convenience. I also keep an archive for extra peace of mind. Want something more tangible? You can add on a USB with your full collection which is perfect for safekeeping and sharing.
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Yes. Every session includes a simple contract that outlines expectations, protects your investment, and allows us both to feel clear and cared for.
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Yes! Family photography sessions and pet-friendly shoots are some of my favorites. Just one request: please make sure extra guests aren’t taking photos over my shoulder so we can keep the energy focused on your story.
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Both. I use a three-prong approach: gentle posing so you feel confident, guided interaction so you look natural, and candid captures that honor the real, unscripted magic of the moment. This blend ensures your photos feel both artful and true to life.
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Weather can be part of the story and sometimes the most magical photos are born in the rain. If you’re up for it, we can embrace the elements. If not, no worries: I offer a simple reschedule option and a clear cancellation policy. Your session should feel stress-free, not weather-dependent.
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You may cancel your session at any time prior to the scheduled date; however, please note that the deposit paid is non-refundable. This policy ensures that I can manage scheduling effectively and compensate for any administrative costs incurred.
If you need to reschedule your session, please provide a minimum or 7 days notice. In such cases, your retainer will be transferred to the rescheduled session. The new session date must fall within the same calendar year. Should the rescheduling request be made within 7 days of the original session date, a new retainer will be required.
Your understanding and cooperation with these policies is appreciated.
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I’d love to hear from you. Every session I photograph is unique. If your question isn’t answered here, reach out through my contact page. Whether you’re looking for a wedding photographer, an engagement session, branding session, or family photos, I’d love to create something meaningful for you and I’m happy to walk you through it.
Estate Sales & Home Organization
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Running an estate sale can easily become a full-time job. For most families it is hard to juggle and find the necessary time to devote to the project. Pricing, organizing, marketing, research, set-up, staffing, negotiating, and cleanup can be overwhelming. Our team handles all aspects, turning months of stress into a manageable 2-4 week process. We know how to price items, attract buyers, and manage sales efficiently. By hiring The Sol Creative Co. you get to save your time, energy, and sanity and focus on life outside the sale. We think you’ll find that our commission rate is well worth the service!
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Every estate has a soul, and we approach the process with reverence and creativity. Our design aims to blend strategy and maximize interest and turnout. We don’t just “sell things”, we tell the story behind them and create excitement around them. By helping buyers connect with the history and character of each piece, we generate stronger interest, better turnout, and a more successful sale while honoring the legacy of the estate. Marketing, advertising, presentation, and attention to detail are our superpowers. One of our biggest advantages is our reach. We believe the best way to maximize your estates value is to put that story in front of as many interested buyers as possible. We market every sale to our engaged audience of more than 150,000 followers, giving your estate visibility, greater excitement leading up to opening day, and the opportunity to attract a larger pool of motivated buyers that few estate sale companies can match. We are passionate about what we do, and it shows. Our goal is to honor the memories tied to each item while making the transition smoother for your family. Every estate has a unique story and our personal touch helps it shine so buyers connect with your items in a way that makes them want to take them home.
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Trust is everything. Chat with a few companies, ask about past sales, and make sure you feel comfortable. Referrals are earned with results and transparency, not bought. You deserve someone who treats your home and your treasures with respect.
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Yes. The Sol Creative Co. is a registered Alabama LLC and is properly licensed to operate our business. We maintain all applicable business registrations and licenses required to conduct business legally and professionally.
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We typically sell approximately 90% of an estate's salable items. Estate sales are designed to efficiently liquidate a home's contents over just a few days, not to function like a retail store where items may sit for months or even years waiting for the right buyer. The same can often be true for consignment, where items may take considerably longer to sell and aren't guaranteed to bring a higher return. Our pricing strategy is intentional. Prices are adjusted throughout the sale to maximize both interest and results, helping ensure you're not left with a house full of unsold items. After all, an item's value is ultimately determined by what someone is willing to pay for it.
When the sale is over, our services don't have to end there. For the few thing that might remain, we can help you take the next step by coordinating estate buyouts, donations, clean-out services, and professional cleaning to prepare the home for the market, giving you a smoother transition from a full house to a move-in-ready property.
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Yes — but these are separate services from the estate sale itself. Each option is custom-priced based on the size of the project, and we’ll discuss details during your consultation so you can choose what works best for your needs.
Clean-Out Services: If you’d like the home completely cleared after the sale, I can handle donation drop-offs, trash removal, arranging for buy-outs, and full house clean-outs. Whether you want the home completely empty or just cleared of unsold items, we’ll build a plan that honors your needs and timeline.
Organization Services: If you’re not looking for a full sale but need help sorting, decluttering, or creating order in your home, I also offer professional organization as a stand-alone service.
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Every estate is exclusive, so income varies. My goal is to sell your items at fair and realistic prices, ensure good turnout, and maximize your proceeds, ensuring items don’t linger unsold for months. I don’t overprice and turn buyers away; I want a lively, successful sale that reflects your home’s value.
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Estate sale fees are typically based on a commission percentage of the total sales, ranging from 30%–50%, depending on the size of the estate, the amount of setup required, and the services included. Our earnings depend on the success of your sale. No upfront costs, no minimum guarantees. Our success is tied to yours. We are invested in achieving the best possible results for you, so we work hard to make sure your sale is a great one.
For situations where a commission structure may not make sense, I also offer an hourly rate option. This can also be a good fit if you only need help with organizing, sorting, staging, or selling a limited number of items.
After a walkthrough and consultation, we’ll review your needs and I’ll provide a customized estimate that fits your situation. This ensures our goals are aligned. The more successful the sale, the better for both of us.
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After the sale is complete and funds are tallied, you’ll receive payment (minus commission and any agreed-upon expenses) within a set timeframe: Usually 7 business days.
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Aside from the commission, additional costs may apply if you request extra services (such as clean-outs, dumpsters, moving, or special advertising). These are always discussed upfront so there are no surprises.
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Most estate sales don’t require upfront payment. My fee is taken from the proceeds of the sale, with a clear agreement in writing beforehand. For partial services (like organization or home staging only), I may require a deposit.
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Yes! Estate sales aren’t just for full households. Whether you’re moving, downsizing, or clearing a loved one’s belongings, I can create a sale that fits your scale and story.
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Most full households are perfect for a 2–3 day sale. Homes with 2–4 bedrooms, common living spaces, and kitchens usually provide a nice mix of inventory. Items that sell well include:
Everyday household items (appliances, electronics, books, cleaning supplies, clothes)
Furniture and décor (mirrors, artwork, candlesticks)
Kitchenware, linens, tools, and yard equipment
Collector items or antiques
Larger estates may require longer sales, from several days up to several weeks. Each estate and sale is different. We handle estates of all sizes and tailor marketing to fit each home’s offerings. There’s always something you have to sell that someone else will want to add to their collection.
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For specialized or rare items, I can bring in an appraiser or market them to targeted buyers to make sure they’re valued appropriately.
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Antiques are lovely but not required to have a successful sale. Most buyers attending estate sales are looking for good bargains on everyday use items. These items in good condition often sell extremely well, including:
Tools and yard equipment
Patio furniture and grills
Vintage items and costume jewelry
Coins, gold, and silver
Hunting gear
Home décor and clean furniture
Even without antiques, a clean, appealing home full of small treasures can have an amazing sale.
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Some items can be challenging:
Pianos and organs (unless high-end)
Older, worn, or outdated furniture (not considered antique or vintage)
Entertainment Centers
Cabinet-style electronics
Encyclopedia sets
Regardless, if you have any of these items in your estate we ask that you leave them in place. We review everything before making final decisions – nothing is left to chance.
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You have several options, and we'll help you choose the one that best fits your goals. Unsold items can be donated to local charities, purchased through an estate buy-out, sold through a secondary sale (online or by appointment), removed through our professional clean-out service, or kept by the family.
If you'd like, our team can also provide professional cleaning services to prepare the home for the market, a move, or its next chapter. Every estate is different, so we'll customize a plan that works best for you and your family.
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Pricing is based on a variety of factors, including current market value, condition, rarity, age, brand, provenance, demand, and recent comparable sales. I combine years of hands-on experience with extensive research and a deep understanding of both local and online buying trends to establish fair, competitive prices. My goal is to maximize your estate's overall return while ensuring items are priced strategically to attract buyers and sell within the limited timeframe of an estate sale.
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We often discover overlooked items (money, papers, or photos) during preparation. Even in cases where the family has thoroughly gone through the house, by the time we clean out every drawer, closet, cabinet, pocket, etc., it is inevitable that we will find something. No worries though, we securely box these and arrange for pickup or shipping back to you.
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Preparing an estate for sale involves much more than simply placing items on tables. I carefully organize, stage, and merchandise each space to create a welcoming and easy-to-shop environment. This includes sorting and grouping items, highlighting unique and valuable pieces, creating attractive displays, and thoughtfully arranging the home so buyers can appreciate the full story and potential of the estate.
When needed, I also take extra steps to clean and refresh items so they are presented in the best possible condition. From dusting and polishing to improving the overall presentation of pieces, these details help buyers better see the value and character of what is being offered.
A well-presented sale helps buyers feel comfortable, discover more items, and see the value in what is being offered. My goal is to create a space that feels inviting, organized, and thoughtfully curated while showcasing your belongings in the best possible light.
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Most sales run 2–3 days. Preparation generally takes 1–4 weeks depending on sorting, pricing, setup, and marketing needs. Larger estates or specialized collections may require more time.
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I handle sorting, staging, pricing, advertising, running the sale, and managing buyers. Your only job is deciding what items you’d like to keep before I begin the process and disposing of personal items.
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Yes! Dispose of medications properly and remove personal papers, sensitive documents, food, and trash. Otherwise, leave all other items in place for us to assess. Whatever remains after the sale is yours to donate, keep, or otherwise manage.
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No. The estate sale itself does not include post-sale clean-out or cleaning services. We focus on liquidation. Once the sale has concluded, I remove all estate sale equipment, displays, and signage, leaving the home orderly and as empty as possible.
For clients who need additional assistance, I can arrange professional clean-out and light cleaning services to remove any remaining contents and help prepare the home for its next chapter. These services are quoted separately and customized to fit your needs.
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Yes. Every estate sale includes a clear contract that outlines fees, responsibilities, and expectations. This protects both of us and ensures the process feels organized and professional.
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I use a strategic mix of estate sale listing websites, social media, email marketing, and local outreach to attract qualified buyers. Over the years, I’ve built an engaged audience of serious collectors, resellers, antique enthusiasts, vintage lovers, decorators, and loyal shoppers who actively follow my sales. This community that I have built extends beyond local buyers, with many followers living out of state or outside our immediate area who help spread the word, share upcoming sales, and refer friends, family, and fellow collectors when they see something special.
Professional photography, video, and detailed descriptions showcase your items in their best light, creating excitement before the sale and helping attract everyone from serious collectors and industry buyers to casual treasure hunters. My goal is simple: to put your estate in front of as many interested buyers as possible to maximize interest, turnout, and results.
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Everyone from antique collectors and vintage enthusiasts to neighbors, resellers, and first-time shoppers looking for unique finds. I create an inviting atmosphere that appeals to a wide audience so we maximize turnout and sales.
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The sooner, the better. Most families book 6–8 weeks in advance to allow enough time for sorting, researching, pricing, staging, photography, and marketing. A well-prepared estate sale takes careful planning, and having adequate time allows me to give your home the attention and strategy it deserves.
Because each estate receives a personalized approach, my schedule fills very quickly. While I always do my best to accommodate urgent situations when possible, I am often working on multiple estates at different stages of preparation. Last-minute requests may not always be able to be scheduled immediately, so reaching out as early as possible gives you the best chance of securing your preferred timeframe.
If you have a tighter timeline, please still reach out. Depending on your needs, timeline, and goals, I can discuss the best solution for your situation, whether that includes an estate sale, a more immediate liquidation option, a buy-out, clean-out services, or another customized approach. I’ll let you know what options may be available.
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We can do sales year-round.
· If severe weather prevents safe access, we’ll work with you on rescheduling or extending the sale to make sure you don’t lose momentum.
· But some times are slower than others. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, traffic often drops, so sales may be lighter. Otherwise, we’ll work with your schedule to pick the timing that gives you the best results.
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Appraisals are separate from estate sales. We can provide them for a fee, usually for insurance purposes, but our primary role is to sell your items.
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Most families prefer not to be there. It can feel emotional seeing belongings sold. I can handle the entire process on your behalf, from setup to closing out, while keeping you updated along the way. Of course, you’re welcome to attend if you’d like.
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Life happens, and I do my best to keep the process flexible and fair. If you need to cancel, please provide as much notice as possible. Because preparation involves significant time and labor:
Before Work Begins: If you cancel before preparation has started, there may be a cancellation fee depending on the circumstances and how close we are to the scheduled sale date. This fee reflects more than just reserving space on my calendar. It also accounts for the time and resources already invested in preparing for your estate. By committing to your project, I may also have turned down other potential clients or adjusted my schedule to accommodate your needs. I understand that circumstances can change, and each situation will be handled individually. My goal is always to be fair while recognizing the time and expenses involved before work officially begins.
After work has begun: Once I’ve started sorting, staging, pricing, or preparation, you’ll be responsible for covering the hours worked at my hourly rate.
If I must cancel: In the rare event that unforeseen circumstances prevent me from conducting your sale, all reasonable efforts will be made to reschedule, or you will receive a refund of any prepayments.
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I’d love to hear from you. Give us a call or message for a free consultation. Whether you’re navigating loss, downsizing, or simply ready for a fresh chapter, I’ll walk you through the process step by step, answer questions, and take the stress off your shoulders. Estate sales don’t have to be overwhelming. We make them smooth, personal, and profitable.Reach out through my contact page to start the conversation.
Tips to our Customers to Elevate a Great Estate Sale Experience.
We truly adore our customers!!! If you’ve been to one of our sales, you know the energy is fun and the treasures are ready to be found. Over the years, we’ve picked up a few tips that help everyone have a smoother, more enjoyable experience. While we can’t please everyone, think of this as your VIP heads-up so you can dive in, have fun, and find the good stuff without a hitch.
1. PAYMENT OPTIONS:
We Accept CASH ONLY!!!!!
2. ALL SALES ARE FINAL:
All items are sold as-is. Before buying, please inspect, test, or research items as needed. Once you purchase something, it’s yours. NO refunds, NO exchanges.
3. ITEMS MAY MOVE OR DISAPPEAR:
We do our best to post accurate previews, but these aren’t our personal items. They belong to our clients. Sometimes owners may remove items right before or even during the sale. We have no control over this, so thank you in advance for your understanding if something you hoped to buy is gone.
4. MOVING LARGE ITEMS:
We cannot help you move furniture due to insurance limitations. Buyers are responsible for moving and transporting items. Please bring sufficient assistance and vehicles for large or heavy items. Please be very careful moving items. You’re responsible for any damage to the property.
5. THEFT IS TAKEN SERIOUSLY:
Stealing is never tolerated. We work closely with local authorities and will take action if necessary. And Yes, we have cameras. We review all footage during and after the sales. Not to be nosy, but to keep an eye out for lost items and safety that protect both customers and clients.
6. CHILDREN:
We adore kids! That said, they must remain with an adult and be supervised at all times. You break it, you buy it. Broken items are the responsibility of the parent or guardian.
7. PICK UP PURCHASED ITEMS PROMPTLY:
If you buy something, please collect it within the days of the sale. If you decline to pick up items after you have paid, we have not been able to sell them. Thus, they have not sold. This means you will not be refunded any amounts charged just because you changed your mind. All sales are final!
8. SECURING LARGE ITEMS:
If you purchase a large item, make sure you place a “sold” tag on it with your name, cell, and pickup time. You can continue shopping without worrying about someone else taking it.
9. HOW TO SHOP, PRICING, AND FIRST-DAY BARGAINS:
Large and valuable items are individually priced. Smaller items may be grouped and priced at checkout. The first day, all items are priced “as is,” but it never hurts to ask… I love a little haggle! If you see something you want, let us know. We can often work with you on deals. Our goal is to balance a good deal for you while getting the best results for our clients.
10. KEEP IT TIDY:
Please help us maintain a safe and pleasant shopping environment. Don’t discard items on the floor or make a mess. Other shoppers (and our sanity!) Will thank you.
11. HOLDING AREA FOR YOUR FINDS:
We have a designated spot near checkout where you can place your items while you continue shopping. While we do our best to monitor the hold area, occasionally items may be picked up by others. Leaving your items is at your own risk and we are not responsible for lost or misplaced items.
12. RESPECT TAPED AREAS, SOLD ITEMS, OTHER SHOPPERS, AND STAFF:
Tape signals items that are off-limits. Please do not move, open, or disturb these areas. Be mindful and courteous to fellow shoppers and our team. Violators and aggressive behavior will result in removal from the sale.
13. SAFETY & LIABILITY:
We are NOT responsible for injuries, accidents, or damage to property during the sale.
14. PHOTOGRAPHY POLICY:
Photography may be restricted inside the home for safety or privacy.
15. PARKING AND LOADING:
Always park on the same side of the street as the home unless instructed otherwise. Do not block driveways, mailboxes, or emergency vehicle access. Driveways are for loading only.
16. SUGGESTIONS AND FEEDBACK:
We love hearing from you! Have thoughts, ideas, or even a complaint? Email me at carly@thesolcreativeco.com. We’re always striving to make the creations better for everyone.
17. MOST IMPORTANTLY, HAVE FUN!
Shop, wander, dance a little if the music moves you, and uncover treasures that call to you. Take a piece home and let its story continue with you. This isn’t just a sale, it’s an experience!!