Today we’d like to introduce you to Deseray Hardwick.
Hi Deseray, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Where Creativity and Energy Meet: The Story Behind Designs by Deseray
By Deseray Hardwick
In the heart of the charming river town of Grafton, Illinois, a new creative space is bringing art, connection, and inspiration together under one roof. I’m Deseray Hardwick, owner and operator of Designs by Deseray, and this studio has been a dream in the making for many years.
Since moving to Grafton in 2016, I’ve always envisioned creating a space where creativity and energy could truly come alive—a place where people could gather not only to make art, but to reconnect with themselves and each other. Grafton has long been known as a destination for adventure and relaxation, offering everything from scenic river views and hiking trails to unique attractions like the Grafton SkyTour and Raging Rivers WaterPark. Visitors come from all over to experience the beauty and energy of the river, and I wanted to add something new to that experience—something creative, meaningful, and lasting.
I truly believe that art and energy-based practices—like yoga and sound healing—play an important role in mental wellness. They help us slow down, feel connected, and experience a sense of accomplishment that stays with us long after the moment has passed.
My journey began four years ago in a much humbler setting—my walkout basement. There, I hosted paint workshops and introduced guests to custom 3D door rounds that I designed and cut using a CO₂ laser. While the space wasn’t quite what I had envisioned, it became a place where creativity could grow. I continued to host workshops there and travel to others, bringing the experience wherever I could, always holding onto the dream of a dedicated studio space.
That dream came full circle this year when a location I first fell in love with back in 2020—right on Main Street—finally became available. Today, Designs by Deseray is proudly located at 128 Main Street, right in the heart of Grafton, in the very space I had imagined all along.
The studio now offers a wide variety of hands-on workshops, including custom Door Rounds, Faux Stained Glass, and Tree of Life creations. What makes this space even more special is the community of talented artists and instructors who share it. Patty of Patty’s Little Shop teaches the timeless art of twining, Trude of The Painting Bee brings creativity to life through dot art and canvas painting, Jessica of Wildwood Flower Farm offers succulent terrarium and floral design workshops, and Jennifer of Sadobie shares the beauty of wire-wrapped jewelry. With new artists joining regularly, there’s always something fresh and inspiring to discover.
Beyond workshops, the studio also serves as a small makers market, featuring a curated selection of local goods—from hemp products and embroidered jewelry to honey, laundry soap, and body care items. It’s a space that celebrates creativity in all forms. In addition, Latavia Jo of The Healing Haus hosts monthly yoga and sound healing sessions, adding another layer of connection and wellness to the studio experience.
Whether you’re visiting Grafton for the day or you’re a local looking for something new, there’s truly something here for everyone. Guests can join scheduled workshops or reach out to book private group experiences tailored to their interests.
What started as a small idea in a basement has grown into something much bigger—a space filled with creativity, collaboration, and community. For me, it’s more than just a studio; it’s a dream realized.
To learn more, find us on Facebook or visit designsbydeseray.net.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Getting here was not without its challenges. Like many small business journeys, mine started with a vision that didn’t quite match the reality I had at the time. Hosting workshops in my basement meant working with limited space, constantly setting up and tearing down, and learning how to create an experience for guests without the environment I truly dreamed of. There were moments of doubt—wondering if I could grow beyond that space or if the opportunity I was waiting for would ever come.
Another challenge was simply staying patient and consistent. For years, I continued to show up—traveling for workshops, investing in materials and equipment like my CO₂ laser, and building connections one class at a time. It required balancing creativity with the realities of running a business, all while trusting that the vision I had for a larger, dedicated space would eventually fall into place.
When the Main Street location I had admired since 2020 finally became available, it felt like everything had come full circle—but even then, stepping into that space came with its own risks and responsibilities. Taking that leap meant believing in myself and the community I was building.
Looking back, those challenges shaped what Designs by Deseray is today. They taught me resilience, creativity, and the importance of creating something meaningful, no matter where you start.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve always loved a good project and being creative—even as a little girl. Over time, I realized that what I enjoy just as much as the creating is the hosting. There’s something special about preparing a space for guests, making sure everything is thoughtfully set up and ready for them the moment they arrive.
I love creating an environment where people feel comfortable—where they can gather with their friends, relax, and leave their worries at the door for a while. It’s a place to connect, to laugh, and to simply enjoy the moment.
One of my favorite parts is watching it all come together—seeing someone step back, proud of what they’ve made, often surprised by their own creativity. That sense of accomplishment and joy is what makes the experience so meaningful for them—and honestly, just as fun and rewarding for me.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
As far as luck goes, I’m not sure I believe accomplishments come down to luck alone. For me, it’s been more about mindset—learning not to be too hard on myself, staying patient, and building confidence along the way. I’ve come to trust that there’s a kind of divine timing to things, and that what’s meant for you will come together when the time is right.
As long as you keep showing up, keep believing in your vision, and don’t give up, you eventually find yourself exactly where you’re meant to be.
Pricing:
- Pricing varies based on class
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.designsbydeseray.net/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyDeseray.GraftonIL/
