Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawnua Dawson.
Hi Dawnua, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I come from a long line of entrepreneurs and have been creating and experimenting with business ideas since I was 18. I grew up surrounded by creativity, with an art teacher mother who loved both art and people. I’m an artist, a designer, and a creative problem solver at heart — I love building solutions, services, and products that bring joy and connection to people’s lives. I’ve always been drawn to creativity and community, and those two passions have guided me toward my current ventures: Sweet & Salty Artifacts and The Collective Heart.
No matter where my path has taken me, I always seem to find my way back to small business ownership. I launched Sweet & Salty Artifacts in November 2020, focusing on personalized, laser-engraved gifts that blend craftsmanship and storytelling. In 2023, I expanded into curated, high-quality gifts through a new LLC, and in October 2024, I took another leap by opening The Collective Heart with two other women-owned businesses.
After COVID, I felt an even stronger pull to reconnect — not just to customers, but to creativity itself. I wanted to build a space where people could learn, experiment, and find community through art. The Collective Heart became that space. It’s now the largest curated space for Kansas-made art, handmade gifts, and creative connection, featuring a dedicated creative classroom and retail space spanning over 6,000 square feet.
Today, our shop features work from 57 local artists ranging in age from 9 to 77 — a multigenerational creative community that continues to inspire me. We host art and creative classes three to four days a week, offering everything from painting and sculpting to jewelry, stained glass and DIY projects. It’s a safe, welcoming environment where heART is encouraged and everyone — from kids to grandparents — can create side by side.
Our shared storefront has evolved into something bigger than retail. It’s a community learning center, creative social space, and local artisan marketplace that empowers micro-businesses, families, and artists alike. Through accessible classes, open-studio events, and guided workshops, we help people build skills, confidence, and meaningful connections. It is constantly evolving and growing as we add new artists, new classes, and new products and I’m excited to see where this next year takes us.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — but if it had, it wouldn’t make for a very memorable story! My background is in graphic design and marketing, but I had pivoted into market research when I bought my first laser. I was craving a more creative outlet, and laser engraving gave me the chance to make beautiful, tangible pieces that brought people joy.
Within my first month, I even had a small laser fire — a terrifying but invaluable lesson in responsibility that I’m grateful I learned early, with only minor consequences. Not long after, life tested me in far greater ways. I faced a major health issue that required more than 15 months of therapy and recovery, had an MRI for a possible brain tumor, and suffered three heartbreaking pregnancy losses. Those experiences shook me, but they also strengthened me. They reminded me that creating — whether it’s art, a business, or community — is deeply tied to healing and resilience.
Less than two years later, I was laid off from my corporate job, and that moment became the push I needed to dive headfirst into building Sweet & Salty Artifacts, LLC full time. Along the way, I upgraded from a small plug-and-play laser to a large CO₂ model that was three to four times faster — a huge leap that opened the door to bigger possibilities. That growth eventually led to the creation of The Collective Heart, where creativity, community, and connection all came together.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the creative mind behind Sweet & Salty Artifacts, a woman-owned business based in the heart of the Midwest. With over 20 years of experience as a graphic designer and marketing expert, I’ve found my passion in creating and transforming high-quality materials into personalized, laser-engraved gifts.
What excites me the most about running this business is the opportunity to solve creative challenges. Whether you’re a realtor searching for a thoughtful closing gift, a business owner looking for unique customer appreciation items, or a friend in need of a memorable wedding gift, I’m here to make it happen. Each gift is crafted with care and attention to ensure it’s as special as the occasion you’re celebrating.
At Sweet & Salty Artifacts, we bring your gift-giving to the next level with unique, custom-engraved treasures designed to make any occasion unforgettable.
Our handcrafted cutting boards and charcuterie boards are made from premium, locally sourced Kansas woods such as Walnut, Oak, Black Locust, American Elm, Birch, Silver Maple, Sweet Gum, and Cedar. Each piece reflects the natural beauty and durability of these fine materials. In addition, we offer a carefully curated selection of olive, teak, acacia, and bamboo cutting boards.
Many of our products are limited-edition, ensuring your gift is as unique and special as the person receiving it. From laser-engraved cutting boards, kitchen accessories, and wine accessories to custom blankets, aprons, kitchen towels, personalized leather patch blankets, tumblers, and more. Every item is thoughtfully crafted with care and love.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The best way to support Sweet & Salty Artifacts and our storefront The Collective Heart, is to shop small and share often. Every like, share, tag, and word-of-mouth recommendation makes a huge difference for small makers like me.
I also love collaborating with other local businesses, nonprofit groups, and artists — whether it’s creating custom pieces for shops, corporate gifts, or unique community projects. If you have an idea you’d love to bring to life, let’s talk! You can find my work online at www.sweetandsaltyartifacts.com, on Facebook @sweetandsaltyartifacts, @thecollectiveheARTstore or visit The Collective Heart in downtown Ottawa to see it in person.
Pricing:
- Closing Gifts $60-$130
- Cutting Boards $30-$100
- Tumblers $16-$40
- Wine Accessories $12-$35
- Art Classes at The Collective Heart $5-$45
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sweetandsaltyartifacts.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetandsaltyartifacts/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetandsaltyartifacts/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnuadawson/
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/TheCollectiveheARTStore/
