Hi, I'm the founder of Cease Before You Desist, and I know what it feels like to have your business suddenly vanish. When I started my Etsy shop, I poured everything into it, building a five-star store with hundreds of happy customers. I felt proud of what I had created. Then, after a few trademark complaints, my shop was permanently suspended.
Each complaint came from a different email address tied to a different trademark, and none of them ever responded. Some of the claims seemed completely unrelated to what I was actually selling, which made the process even more confusing. It is easy to overlook the possibility that you are infringing on someone’s intellectual property when the connection is not obvious, and even easier to feel blindsided when it happens.
Even with a background in law, the process was complicated and discouraging. I realized that if it was difficult for me to navigate, it had to be nearly impossible for creators without legal experience. I searched trademark databases, studied marketplace policies, read Reddit and Facebook rants, watched TikTok videos, and talked to other sellers who had been through the same nightmare. The more I learned, the clearer it became that this was not just my problem. It was happening to thousands of creators who were losing years of hard work, income, and stability overnight.
That realization led to the creation of Cease Before You Desist. I wanted to build the tool I wish I had back then, something that bridges the gap between complex trademark systems and everyday creators. It helps sellers reduce their risk by identifying potential trademark issues before they publish, protecting their businesses from unnecessary loss and sudden disruption.
Today, Cease Before You Desist helps Etsy, Shopify, and small business owners safeguard their shops, their income, and their peace of mind. Because no creator should live in fear of their next listing.
My mission is simple: to keep creators creating safely, confidently, and without the constant stress of that dreaded infringement notice. Cease Before You Desist exists so you can focus on what you do best, building great products and a brand you're proud of, with clearer information and better protection on your side.