Sunehra Koshy is a paper artist and her expertise in creating customised handmade invitation cards, favour boxes, albums and gifts came to light over six months ago. She says: “I chose the name Crack of Dawn because with two children under the age of five, that was the only time I was able to craft!”
Looking at her work, you are bound to think that Sunehra has always been in the arts but long before she decided to follow her heart, she completed her MBA in Finance and worked as an operations manager with a leading bank before she put in her papers when she was assistant vice president. “I would have retired from the bank had I not decided to become a mom. I resigned essentially after my son was born as I wanted to spend his early years with him. Two years later my daughter was born and I was more reluctant than ever to go back to full time work.”
It was in March 2012 when she was hunting for some craft shells that she chanced upon a craft store. “I found a range of craft supplies, perfect to sustain my hobby. So I wrote and asked if I could help the store with their blog and Facebook page. They were happy to have me onboard. As I crafted more, I found people coming to me to purchase my creations or order custom made gifts or cards for their special occasions. I soon created my own blog, Facebook page and website (www.crackofdawncrafts.in) to offer a platform for interested parties to view my projects. And from January this year, I decided to take it really seriously, investing in staff, stock, equipment and advertising.” At Crack of Dawn Crafts, the product range falls into two broad categories - Events and Gifting. “For events, I create everything one would need to host a successful and attractive function, like invitations, favour boxes, table decor and thank you cards. In the gifting category, I create handmade gifts for those who want to present something meaningful to their loved ones, like scrapbooks, albums, gift boxes, shadow box frames, etc,” she informs. While invitations are priced at Rs. 100/- upwards, her exquisite ‘explosion boxes’ range from Rs. 900- Rs. 5,500/- . All products can be shipped around the globe.
The USP of Crack of Dawn Crafts is that every product is original and can be customised according to one’s taste. Also, Sunehra is adept at creating various products based on themes selected by her clients.
Looking ahead, she hopes “Crack of Dawn Crafts will be the leading choice for wedding planners, trousseau packers and party planners all over India for invitations, gift hampers, giveaway favours and party decor for their events. I would also like to see my albums, gift sets and scrapbooks in gift stores all over India.”
To those contemplating taking up crafting full time, Sunehra says, “Check if you have the support of your immediate family and if you do, just go for it! I checked with my husband, he said ‘Go for it!!’ I did and I'm thrilled that I did.”
This column features those who choose to veer off the beaten track
