My name is Stephanie Ackerman owner of RELM handmade. I live in rural Greene County, New York. I am a busy mom of three awesome kids who suddenly decided I wanted to be a “shop” owner! Truthfully, it’s always been a secret dream of mine to own a little shop selling unique handmade items. Not wanting to give up my full-time career as a speech-language pathologist, I decided to begin a traveling boutique and online shop. RELM handmade was launched in March 2009. I personally choose every single item offered by RELM handmade. I love searching for and finding artisans and their unique offerings. It’s the stories of these people that fascinate me. I enjoy buying things from the person who has designed and created them, putting their talents, energies, and pride into their creations. I also offer RELM original pieces, designed and crafted by myself.

Where does the name RELM come from?

The name was created using the initials of my funny, beautiful, brave niece, Rachel Elizabeth Lee, whom we lost to brain cancer on August 9, 2008. Rachel was an aspiring artist and immensely gifted. Her passing has pushed me to live more and fear less, to pursue ideas that interest and motivate, and to expand horizons. Please visit www.4rachel.com to learn more about Rachel and the fund that has been established by my brother and sister-in-law to honor her memory. The Rachel Lee Memorial Fund supports the arts and sports programs she loved so much.