Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan McNeely.
Hi Megan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Ever since I can remember, I have dabbled in all things creative. I’ve been a musician my entire life, and I have always leaned towards anything where I can use my imagination and get my hands dirty.
One of my greatest creative influences was my grandfather. He was an electrician by trade and an incredible woodworker and welder. My brother and I would create mazes through his huge shop, which housed at least 10 of every tool imaginable as young kids. A place to spark anyone’s imagination!
My Dad, affectionately known as “Peepaw” by his grandkids, is also an electrician but has dabbled in woodworking as well. This became an avid hobby of his beginning in 2013. That same year, I worked part-time as a vocal instructor and had my young toddler at home. My Dad built (what we have coined now as) a plaque constructed of repurposed wood.
He brought it to me and told me to “create something.” So, I created a family portrait of my husband, Lyla June, myself, and our jet-black dog, Elvis. This portrait looked a little different than you might expect. We had no facial features and were all bald. This notion takes on my family, adorned with leftover scrapbook paper and fabric remnants, has been recreated and customized for hundreds of family’s coasts to coast.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have to say, I never dreamed of owning my own business. Quite frankly, I never wanted a business of my own.
I saw firsthand the struggles that both of my parents endured owning their own businesses, and phew! It is not for the faint of heart. However, God had something else in store. Have there been hard times and struggles? Absolutely!! Have there been bumps along the route? Every day!
There’s been a lot of blood, sweat, and tears we’ve endured along the journey, but it’s certainly made us wiser, and I believe, pushed us to be more creative. My hands and heart can attest to it!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a daughter of a King, wife to Justin, Momma to Lyla June, and an artist! My Dad and I collectively make up June Bug Designs. Since 2013, we have been creating repurposed art out of our home for others to enjoy. Our family plaques, inspirational art, and frames can be found in homes across the nation.
My most cherished moments are spending time in my studio with Lyla June or just by myself in meditation and worship! I am most proud of the joy our art brings people, whether it be through the vibrancy of the colors or the words purposefully written on the art.
One thing I know that sets us apart is the relationships we build with our customers. They truly are like family. We have been building this business for going on 9 years now, and the people are what make this journey so sweet.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Gratefulness and gratitude. I am grateful for those people we cross paths with, whether it be a new customer online or an old friend we are reunited with at a crafts show. God’s graciousness has surely shined through in our customers. They are what make June Bug Designs successful.
Contact Info:
- Email: megan@junebugdesigns.com
- Website: www.junebugdesigns.com
- Instagram: @junebugdesigns
Image Credits
Jenna Nason
