Today we’d like to introduce you to Carmen Boone
Carmen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I have always loved art, lettering and Calligraphy and I have always wanted to learn it ever since I was little. In 2018, I decided to make that my New Year’s resolution. I bought all the supplies, took a lettering class, did lots of research and started practicing a lot! I would use my ink and pen at home but carried the brush pen in my purse. At my job they wanted us to handwrite birthday envelopes to every client, each month. I volunteered to do it with my brush pen I bought! So, I got to practice a lot with layout, spacing and maneuvering the pen. My co-worker saw me and asked me to address her wedding envelopes and make place cards. I was thrilled! The following year another co-worker asked me to do all of her wedding signage on acrylic. I had been thinking of starting a page for my work and knew this was the perfect opportunity. The signs would take lots of work and time and I wanted to document it all. After much encouragement from my friends and family, in 2022 CatalinaCreated was born on Instagram! I would mostly do work for friends and family and then people started asking me if I would teach them. I was looking into what that would look like as far as supplies, cost etc. My friend took a Sip and Script calligraphy class in Atlanta and loved it and told me that I should teach with them. I had never heard of this business and looked it up immediately. I reached out to them and in March 2023 I officially joined as an instructor!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I don’t know if working towards a goal is ever smooth. There will be bumps along the way but that is how we grow and learn. It is definitely hard, in this line of work, to not compare yourself and feel like you aren’t doing enough, My biggest struggle is the technical part. I am not the best with technology and I am so thankful for my husband who is constantly helping me.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I currently teach 2-3 Calligraphy classes a month at local venues in Nashville and Williamson County. I can letter on just about anything and also offer engraving and hot foiling as another option. I can also do live calligraphy or engraving events and private classes for parties or corporations. I am proud of myself for having the courage to start this journey and to teach.
My calligraphy work helps me use my creativity and connect with other amazing artists! Right now, it’s my side hustle. But, one day I hope to do it full time!
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I’ve heard a saying that says “you make your own luck”. I don’t really think it’s about luck. I think it’s about taking your passion and working hard at it and praying for God to bless that work. I believe God is guiding me and placing people in my life at the right time. Proverbs tells us “Humans can plan their course but God will establish their steps.” I just pray and ask for guidance and say “YES” when the time comes!
Pricing:
- Engraved items start at $50
- Calligraphy minimum fee $50
- Callligraphy Classes $70-$75, all supplies included
- Event Signage starting at $40
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sipandscript.com/organizer/carmen-boone/
- Instagram: Catalinacreated
Image Credits
Jessica Lee Photography
Kendra Rodriguez Photography
