Life & Work with Hannah Kuchar

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hannah Kuchar.

Hi Hannah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Since I was little, I have always enjoyed creating handmade cards and art with words. Making words look beautiful is therapy for me. I make my own Christmas cards every year to send to friends and family, I have made signs for friends’ weddings and parties, and I have made and sold several custom art pieces. It brings me joy to create and share beautiful things with others.

It’s easy to get lost in the sadness of our world. Choosing joy in the midst of that requires effort and practice, but when prioritized, it will transform your perspective. My hope is that my artwork can bring joy and light even in the darkness.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I am still in the growing process. Navigating how to price items and ship them inexpensively has been challenging and I am learning by trial and error.

I am just now starting to branch out and expand my business. I know I will continue to be faced with new challenges, but I am excited to grow through them.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I create unique handmade cards, signs, and custom art pieces. My favorite is using a dip pen to write in a modern calligraphy style. I like to create a soft pastel background with watercolor and then add my dip pen calligraphy lettering at the end. I am proud of the thoughtful pieces I have made for my friends and family that I still see hanging in their homes.

I am also proud to say that a few years ago I was asked to create some custom artwork for a new bakery called Pies by Gigi, owned by Gigi Butler of the famous Gigi’s Cupcakes. Using Ms. Butler’s ideas, I created two pieces of barn wood that were hanging in the store and then a few smaller pieces on canvas that were sold in the gift shop area.

Unfortunately, the store has since closed, but I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to learn and expand my business!

What do you like and dislike about the city?
When I first moved here almost 10 years ago now, I fell in love with how green Nashville is! There are so many great parks and places to walk and hike. A few of my favorites are Percy Warner, Radnor Lake, Ellington Agricultural Center, and Crockett Park. There is something about being out in nature that reminds me of how small I am – but in a good way. I am able to feel hope and peace, and 99% of the time whatever problems are on my mind, somehow feel small afterward.

Secondly, Nashville has some incredible food! A few of my favorites are Baja Burrito, Strikeout Wings in Plaza Mariachi, Bishop’s Meat-and-Three, and Edley’s Bar-B-Que. One thing that makes me sad is that some of the classic “Nashville” restaurants have had to close due to rising costs. There is never a shortage of tourists or new residents! I know that amidst all the new growth, what makes Nashville special will hold firm.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://etsy.me/3ym9jlb
• Instagram: @choosejoy_designs