Let’s rewind to four years ago (WHAT?? FOUR YEARS 😳). I was a stay-at-home mom with an art degree, itching for some creativity in my life. I thought, “Maybe I’ll start by marketing our bulls on social media.” At first, I figured I'd be talking about bull genetics and share ranch stuff... blah, blah, blah. Spoiler alert: NOPE.
Do I love cows? Of course. But are they my passion? Not even close.
I quickly realized that going all-in on the bull marketing life just wouldn’t fulfill me. Plus, let’s be honest — working side-by-side with my husband every single day? Someone wouldn’t have made it out alive… LOL! But seriously, I’d have to ask about every detail, get approval for every post, and have little to no creative freedom. And I crave creativity. I knew that kind of work would burn me out fast.
Art. Fashion. Teaching. Owning my own business.
That’s me. That’s Hayls.
So, I pivoted. I leaned into what I truly love — ART.
I have a BA in art. I’m a self-proclaimed art nerd 🤓. It was time to use that degree and turn it into something I could be proud of.
Back then, my Instagram following was mostly just friends and family. I wanted to start a blog/vlog and felt like my handle needed a makeover to match the new direction. My friend Miranda (shoutout to the real MVP!) suggested “Skinner Ranch Mama.” At the time, it was perfect. I was sharing life on the ranch, chasing kids, and navigating being a mom.
But as my kids got older and my business started to grow, the content started shifting. I wasn’t posting as much about my kids (because honestly, that’s their choice to be involved in the online business or not). And the “ranch mama” vibe didn’t quite fit anymore. I was creating more art, doing custom designs, launching merch, and growing into something bigger than I imagined.
So, I kept the heart of the name — SRM — and evolved it into something more fitting:
SRM Custom Art & Design.
Because that’s where the dream is now. That’s what this brand has become.
I really feel like I had a “God moment” where it all came together. Everything — my education, my jobs, my passions — it all aligned to guide me into a business that’s completely me. And I’m loving every second of it. The Hayley from four years ago wouldn't have guessed she would have a storefront and employees!
Hard work, faith, and a whole lotta hustle... it’s all paying off.
Come see me at the store! I'd love to say hello.
XOXO - Hayls