What’s Changing at AKA in 2026

If you read my post about The Messy Middle, you know that 2025 was an odd year. A challenging one. I did a lot of reflecting and a lot of uncomfortable admitting about what I actually want this business and my life to look like.

And after sitting with it for a while, I made a hard decision.

For 2026, I’m stepping back from large in-person trade shows.

Not forever. I’m not saying no to markets for the rest of my life. I’m just figuring out a way to run this business that feels more sustainable for this season of life.

Why I’m Stepping Back From Markets

This decision wasn’t forced. No one made it for me. If anything, I had to be the one brave enough to finally say it out loud.

Between burnout and my mental health slowly declining, something had to change. By November, right in the middle of holiday market season, I knew I couldn’t keep pushing the way I had been. Even though I was technically doing fewer shows than the year before, my body was telling me it still wasn’t working.

At the same time, life at home was shifting too.

My husband’s businesses are growing in really exciting ways, and our busy seasons are no longer opposite. We’re both building at the same time now. Add in the fact that I live three hours away from most major markets, and every show becomes travel days, multiple nights away, prep, teardown and recovery.

And then there’s my boys.

When my 7 year old asked me why I had to leave again and told me he missed me... it felt like a gut punch. I want my kids to see what I do. I want them to understand hard work and entrepreneurship. But I also don’t want to miss this short window where they’re little.

The majority of my income has come from in-person events, so this isn’t a light pivot. It would be easier to keep doing what’s familiar.

But I cancelled my final trade show of the season, and when it was over, I was overwhelmed with relief.

And that’s when I knew 2026 had to look different.

What This Means for In-Person Events

I’m not disappearing completely.

I’m open to pop-ups and special events as well as permanent jewelry and charm parties. I love the connection that happens in person. That part hasn’t changed!

What is changing is the frequency and scale. Fewer large trade shows. More intentional yeses.

Where You Can Find AKA in 2026

With fewer markets on my calendar, online is where I’m focusing my energy.

As a handmade jewelry brand based in Saskatchewan, most of my customers already shop with me online. That’s where I’ll be leaning in harder this year.

You’ll still see new launches. You’ll still see mini drops and limited pieces. I’m also ramping up wholesale partnerships and collaborations, which I’m genuinely excited about.

If you’ve discovered AKA at a market before, this doesn’t mean you lose access. It just means the best way to shop and stay connected is through my website and email list.

Want First Access?

With fewer in-person events happening, my email community is going to become even more important.

If I open permanent jewelry dates or limited pop-ups, my Insiders will hear about it first. They’ll get early access to launches, special offers, and updates before anyone else.

If you want priority access and first dibs on availability, make sure you’re on my Insider list.

This next chapter feels different. Not smaller. Not less ambitious. Just more aligned.

And I believe that’s going to make all the difference.

Part two is coming soon. I’m sharing some new directions I’m genuinely excited about.