Everyone has a story to tell. Lucinda Summerlin, owner and designer of Nest Egg Papers, is no exception.

Work, travel, a new house and a new husband were the center of Summerlin’s life a few years ago. The couple lived in Dallas when Summerlin’s mother experienced a decline in her health. That change prompted Summerlin and her husband to quit their jobs and move back to her hometown of Fayetteville, Ark.

Summerlin’s mother needed a kidney transplant and Summerlin was a match. After surgery and recovery, both mother and daughter are thriving and enjoying good health. It was the seriousness of her mother’s disease that prompted Summerlin to reevaluate her life and her career track. “My surgery and recovery forced me to step away from my fast-paced job. That time away allowed me to examine my life and in doing so, I decided that I would to find a way to pursue my passion – graphic design,” said Summerlin.

That initial decision launched a now thriving company. Nest Egg Papers has gone from an initial line of imprintable invitations and announcements to a full line of products including fold over note cards, calling cards and photo cards. The company has expanded 350% this year and has enjoyed a groundswell of support from retailers throughout the United States. With products in 19 states, Summerlin looks for expansion to continue as retailers are introduced to her designs.

Reflected in the name, Nest Egg Papers is based on hope and new beginnings. “I am living my dream and the fact that my mother can work beside me cutting ribbons and filling orders, makes everything come full circle,” stated Summerlin. No doubt Summerlin’s mother provided a very happy “nest” from which this business owner and designer was launched.