Hi! I’m Laurie. Before māk, I spent years managing large-scale events and, over the past two decades, building programs and cultivating technical communities at a large tech company. I loved the challenge, the strategy, and the security that came with working for someone else. But mostly, I loved the people — and the creative ways I found to connect with them, even while working deep in technical spaces.
All the while, I carried a quiet longing to work for myself, to tap into the creative part of my brain, and to do something more tactile. Before I had kids, I filled my time with creative projects, classes, and craft nights with friends. Creativity was how I recharged.
Then life sped up. Between raising a family and growing a career, my creative spark got buried under to-do lists. I bought supplies for projects I never started. I’d get excited about a trend, only to realize I was missing a key material or didn’t know where to begin. Sound familiar? I’m returning to that creative part of myself and I’m building a place where others can do the same.
māk is a retail craft studio designed for people who want to reconnect with their creativity – whether they’re seasoned makers or just curious. It’s a place to meet up with friends, sip something delicious, and make something with your hands. You don’t need to be an artist. You don’t need to bring anything but yourself.
We offer:
- Drop-in projects at the māk bar, with rotating options for all skill levels and price points
- Instructor-led workshops for deeper dives into new techniques
- Private group experiences for birthdays, team-building, or just because
- A curated retail shop featuring handmade goods and DIY kits from local makers
I believe creativity is more than a hobby — it’s a wellness tool. Studies show that using the creative side of your brain can reduce stress, improve clarity, and boost happiness. And when we create together, we connect on a deeper level. As Brené Brown says, “Creativity is the way I share my soul with the world.”
That’s why māk is also a platform for local artists and makers to share their work and teach their craft. We want to introduce our community to new materials, methods, and perspectives — and help people discover the joy of making something by hand.
Whether you’re popping in for a last-minute gift (no more scrolling the blue bus), meeting a friend for a creative happy hour, or bringing your team in for a hands-on offsite, you’re welcome here. We’re just getting started, and we’d love for you to be part of the journey.
Follow along on Instagram and right here on the blog to see what’s coming next – and don’t be shy about sharing your ideas. This space is for you.
Let’s māk something together.
