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Woman With Down Syndrome Co-Founds Successful Accessories Brand

March 25, 2025

In 2016, friends Emily and Julia turned a challenge into an opportunity by launching Dance Happy Designs — a vibrant accessories brand featuring handmade, screen-printed textiles.

What makes this company even more remarkable is that it was co-founded by Julia, who has Down syndrome, proving that creativity and determination can break barriers.

Emily and Julia | Dance Happy Designs

Struggling to find employment due to her disability, Julia and Emily decided to think outside the box and create their own business. With Julia’s artistic flair and Emily’s entrepreneurial spirit, they built Dance Happy Designs from the ground up.

Julia’s original shapes and patterns became the signature of the brand, adorning home and lifestyle products with joyful, one-of-a-kind designs.

Dance Happy Designs / Facebook

What started as a small venture has since blossomed into a major success.

Dance Happy Designs now partners with retail giants like Nordstrom, Madewell, and Aerie, along with over 40 boutique and specialty stores — a feat few small businesses achieve, and an extraordinary accomplishment for one co-founded by someone with Down syndrome.

Dance Happy Designs / Facebook

Julia, proudly serving as Chief Dancing Officer and Lead Pattern Designer, continues to inspire with her creativity and passion.

"She loves creating things that make other people happy," Emily said.

Recently, Julia was diagnosed with cancer, making it harder for her to work in the same way she once did. To support their business during this time, Dance Happy Designs is raising funds on Honeycomb. Fans can also send Julia a card by messaging the company on Facebook for the address.

Despite the challenges, Dance Happy Designs continues to thrive — a testament to friendship, resilience, and the belief that anything is possible.