Brush + Banter Podcast Ep. 5 with Alyssa Vilardi of The Things We Built

Turning DIY, Motherhood, and Mess Into a Creative Business

Some of the most meaningful creative journeys don’t start with a big plan. They start with making the most with what you’ve got. Making do with a rental. Or limited tools. Or while kiddos nap. 

In this episode of Brush + Banter, hosts Annie and Lauren sit down with DIY designer, content creator, and mom of three Alyssa Vilardi of The Things We Built to talk about how everyday projects (and the chaos that comes with them) can turn into something far bigger than you ever expected.

From painting nurseries in military housing to building a thriving creative business rooted in honesty (and a whole lot of heart), Alyssa’s story is proof that you don’t need perfect conditions to make something meaningful. You just need to start.

When “Making Do” Turns Into Making Magic

Alyssa’s creative career didn’t begin with a business plan. Instead? It began with a need. As a military spouse moving often and living in rental spaces, she learned how to make temporary homes feel personal, warm, and functional.

One DIY project led to another. One share turned into a following. And over time, The Things We Built became a brand grounded in approachability and real life. Not unattainable polished perfection.

Her work resonates because it feels within reach. 

Letting Go of Perfection (and Embracing the Mess)

One of the most refreshing parts of Alyssa’s story is her honesty about imperfection. In this conversation, she opens up about releasing the pressure to do things “the right way” and instead focusing on what brings joy to her family and herself.

Motherhood, mental health, and creativity don’t exist in neat compartments. They overlap and sometimes even compete for attention. Alyssa shared how allowing space for imperfection made room for more creativity. 

Sometimes that looks like progress. Sometimes it looks like unfinished projects and chicken nuggets for dinner. Both count.

Designing Spaces That Feel Like You, Even in a Rental

A major theme of this Brush + Banter episode is designing for real life. Alyssa believes your space should support who you are now, not some future version of yourself with more time, money, or energy.

Even in rentals, she encourages people to take creative risks, like paint the walls, add character, and make the space yours. Because when your environment reflects you, it becomes easier to show up fully in the rest of your life too. Guess what? Design doesn’t have to be permanent to be meaningful.

Authenticity Is the Most Sustainable Business Strategy

As her platform grew, Alyssa leaned into storytelling over spectacle. She didn’t build her business by chasing trends. She built it by showing up honestly, sharing what worked (and what didn’t), and trusting that the right audience would find her.

That authenticity became her greatest asset. It attracted a community that values real life over highlight reels and progress over perfection. And ultimately, it’s what made her creative business sustainable.

Tools That Keep DIY Doable

When you’re juggling kids, content creation, and creative work, the right tools matter. Alyssa shared the Zibra brushes she reaches for over and over again because they make projects easier, not harder.

Alyssa’s favorite Zibra brushes:

• Palm Pro Brush – “Palm Pro 100%!!” Her top pick for comfort and control
• Square Brush – her regular go-to for clean edges and versatile projects
• Top Coat Brush – her favorite when she’s not spraying

She also recommends the 2” Palm Pro Artist Brush.

Keep Listening

To hear the full conversation, including how Alyssa balances creativity with motherhood, builds a business without burning out, and finds joy in imperfect action, listen to “Turning DIY, Motherhood, and Mess Into a Creative Business” wherever you get your podcasts.

Catch up on all Brush & Banter episodes here.

Follow Alyssa & The Things We Built

Alyssa Vilardi is a DIY designer, content creator, and mom of three behind The Things We Built, where she shares approachable projects, honest storytelling, and inspiration for making any house feel like home.

Connect with Alyssa:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Website