Friday, April 1, 2011

The life of Joy


What started out as a simple hobby has evolved into a way of life for me. It all began in college when I took a Photoshop class. I found myself closing down computer labs and doing extra assignments. I had always LOVED art, but to be able to design on the computer was an entirely new world. I was in love. Upon graduation, I continued to use photoshop - to design pieces for my own wedding, create our yearly Christmas card and to enhance photos.

Shortly thereafter, I received requests from friends to create photo-cards.... before long, I was getting requests from friends of friends. I started out doing photo-cards on the side - working nights/weekends doing what I loved. I've always loved words, design, color and fonts. My secret dream was to work for Hallmark, to create my own greeting card line.

I graduated with a Communication degree from Carroll College (now Carroll University) located in Waukesha, Wisconsin where I was also a CHI OMEGA! Upon graduation I had the pleasure of working in a cubicle (ha!), working for others, losing all ability to apply my creative talent. The jobs I held ranged from Human Resources - to working in Higher Education. I definitely gained valuable experience within these positions - learned a lot, challenged myself and learned many life lessons that I never imagined I would. Something always was missing - I have an artistic brain and I see things so different than most. I am a visual learner and LOVE to do things hands on.

Cut to now...I'll be married 10 years in November and have 2 adorable girls - ages 5 and 4. We love any and all things Disney. We live a crazy busy life, but I wouldn't have it any other way. I will tell you that my girls are my biggest critics...they will tell me if any of my designs are less than perfect. If I create a design for a kid's invitation - you can guarantee they are my go - to girls before submitting a proof to a client. ;) The past few years I have grown my hobby into creating invitations/notepads/logo designs. I love the ability to set my hours and still be able to be mom to my two greatest creations to date. I work well into the evening hours - often times through to the early a.m. hours. You'll also find me working through the weekend where my husband is a hands - on dad. It's really the best of both worlds. The best part of what I do is that I get to create for someone - whether a small business logo or an invitation to an event...I get to play a small part in helping them shape their vision. I take my role very seriously and ensure that I my clients love the finished product. I remember my good friend, Kim once told me ---"Creative talent only gets better when you get to use that talent"...Because of endless loyal friends/customers, I've gotten to put that talent to use. I look forward to doing what I love for years to come. Thank you all so very much!

My etsy site has been a great way to meet other artists and have my invitations sell to people all over the U.S. I am honored to say I have many repeat customers and referrals - this is the greatest compliment to me. I love seeing my fan base grow on facebook - social networking has really helped me to take off. I look forward to the creative journey ahead. I hope to launch my web site in the next few months - I am happy to report that wedding season has kept me so busy that it has prevented me from moving forward with the launch!

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me -
I'd love to have you follow me -

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