Building Better Planners: How Heather Harris Became the Hidden Force Behind Top Stationery Brands

What do you get when you combine deep design experience, a background in overseas production, and a love for well-made products? You get Heather Harris, the founder of Copper Bottom Design Co. — and this week's podcast guest.

Heather is a behind-the-scenes powerhouse in the stationery world, helping planner brands go from rough idea to fully manufactured product. With over 20 years of experience in print and design, she’s built a business that quietly supports some of the most well-known names in the industry — acting like a ghostwriter for full product lines.

From Freelance Designer to Unexpected Business Owner

Heather’s entrepreneurial story wasn’t sparked by a grand plan. Instead, it started with a single Facebook post.

After years of freelancing, she was casually answering a question in a group about sourcing production in China — something she had done for years across multiple companies. The response was overwhelming. Her inbox filled with inquiries, and soon after, she realized this wasn’t just something she could do — it was something there was real demand for.

So in 2016, Copper Bottom Design Co. officially launched.

Building Products, Solving Problems

Heather’s role today is as a creative production partner. She works primarily with women-led businesses in the planner and stationery space — brands who often have strong vision and values, but not the in-house team to bring products to life. Whether it’s sourcing manufacturers, overseeing design and proofing, or managing timelines with overseas suppliers, Heather handles it all — and loves being the “quiet force” behind her clients’ success.

But it hasn’t come without challenges.

She shared stories of managing tariffs, navigating global shipping issues during the pandemic, and the emotional toll that comes with carrying a business solo. “There’s always going to be a challenge,” she said. “It’s how you show up through it that counts.”

A Shift Toward CEO

Now a decade into business ownership, Heather is beginning a new chapter: one where she’s stepping into a true CEO role.

“I used to do everything,” she explained. “Now, I’m finally letting go — training my team, delegating design work, and giving myself the space to work on the business instead of just in it.”

She’s moved from being the only employee to leading a tight-knit team that supports editorial, production, and design. And while she’s not planning to scale big, she is focused on building something sustainable — for herself, her team, and the clients they serve.

Why She Doesn’t Sell Courses (And What She's Doing Instead)

In a world where many service providers are pivoting to digital products, Heather is doubling down on 1:1 service. “I thought about courses. Everyone was doing them. But it never felt right,” she said. “My work is too customized, too nuanced. And I actually love being embedded in someone else’s business.”

It’s this mindset — boutique, intentional, and deeply relational — that has built Copper Bottom’s strong reputation and loyal client base.

The Takeaway for Entrepreneurs

Heather’s journey is a reminder that sustainable growth often comes not from chasing trends, but from leaning into your strengths. She didn’t start out trying to become a leader in planner manufacturing. But she followed her curiosity, trusted her instincts, and focused on solving real problems for real people.

Whether you're designing your own product line or just dreaming about starting a business, Heather’s story is proof that there's value in growing slow, staying small, and doing what you do best.

Connect with Heather:
Visit Copper Bottom Design Co. or follow her on Instagram @copperbtmdesign

Tune into the full episode of The Entrepreneur’s Blueprint to hear more about Heather’s journey, how she trains her team, and what it really takes to produce physical products overseas.