My Story

Welcome to Designs By Amanda! 

My name is Amanda Van Der Brink and I am the owner and founder. For as long as I can remember, I have always loved to design things. Whether it was designing quotes for my room or designing flyers for different things, I loved it all!

I went to Dordt University in Sioux Center and I graduated with a double bachelor’s degree in Clinical Psychology and Criminal Justice. Wasn’t expecting that, huh? I love helping people and understanding people. My dream job was working on Criminal Minds and solving crimes based on the psychology of the criminals. Instead, God lead me to becoming the local Sexual Abuse Victims Advocate and Sexual Assault Response Team Coordinator for 6+ years. I am incredibly passionate about protecting those who have been assaulted and bringing those to justice. Since I was working for a non-profit, we had to often do our marketing which allowed me to get back into design. 

In 2015, I married the man of my dreams, Caleb. We have a very spoiled little dog named Holly. We enjoy going for walks, watching the Twins and Vikings, golfing, having bonfires, and so much more! 

In 2019, I decided I needed to do some self care by changing jobs. After I left, I started assisting more non-profits and businesses with their social media and website design. Then I got started designing different products and that was it. Designs By Amanda was born! I love making products that others will use and I love being able to help others with social media and website design. 

In the summer of 2022, I tore my ACL and meniscus. Unfortunately, I had some complications and was on crutches for 7+ months, but God had a plan because in the beginning of November, we found out that we were finally expecting our first child! 

Kipton Miles joined our family on June 24, 2023. He weighed 5lbs 5oz and was 19in. He is the happiest baby! He smiles ALL THE TIME and it’s absolutely wonderful! :) God knew our hearts needed him after waiting so long! So if I take a little extra time making products, it’s probably because I’m getting Kipton snuggles and smiles!

Hope you enjoy my products!