Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Bernard.
Stephanie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I have always loved art and creating it in different ways. I have always been known as that crafty friend working on the next Pinterest inspired project. I started reading the book Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert and it inspired me to find more ways to live creatively. I was always captivated by calligraphy and obsessed with good penmanship, so I made the commitment to practice every day in hopes of improving. After three weeks of practicing every single day, I decided to open a business. Ten months later, I have completed work for over 50 weddings/events and counting. I have met other amazing vendors in the event industry and collaborating with them on projects has been one of my favorite things about this business.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has not! Haha, It has been an absolute rollercoaster of emotions. My main struggle has been working as a full-time teacher and rushing home to then complete orders until late at night. I do not consider this a side hustle, as I work just as hard on my biz as I do at work. I sometimes feel like I have two very demanding full-time jobs. It has also been fairly difficult learning the ins and outs of owning my own business. I have learned that many things are blessings and unfortunate situations become great lessons. I have had to learn to say no to the things that do not deserve my time or energy, especially since I have a big desire to make everyone happy. Sometimes I feel like I am on top of the world & ready to take on anything. Other times, I feel like I can’t do anything right. Sometimes all in one day.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
My business specializes in modern calligraphy and designs for weddings, events, home decor, and much more. I love the ability to bring a client’s vision to life. My services include wedding & event signage, invitation suite designing & envelope addressing, digital designs, engraved acrylic details, day of details and decor items, bridal jacket painting, menu cards, and much more!
I am definitely grateful and proud of the way my business has grown since its establishment. I have seen the fruits of my hard work and have no intention of stopping any time soon!
Some things that set me apart from other wedding professionals is that I am able to cater to couples across the nation without the travel expenses since I have the ability to ship anywhere in the US.
Many calligraphers focus on traditional calligraphy and simple, delicate colors. I prefer to incorporate a modern calligraphy approach, lots of color, and illustrations into my work.
What were you like growing up?
I was always doing something creative. My uncle is a well-known artist back in Dominican Republic and I used to spend my summers there. One of my fondest memories is of spending hours inside his studio, listening to classical music and painting anything I wanted. I loved making crafts and giving creative handmade gifts to my family and friends.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ivelissedesigns.com/
- Phone: 3059515025
- Email: steph.ivelisse@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivelissedesigns/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ivelisse-designs-austin
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/IvelisseDesigns
Image Credit:
Personal Photo- Brittany Jean Photography
Watercolor Flat lay with Macarons – Brittany Jean Photography
Elizabeth Place Card – Brittany Jean Photography
Citrine & Sage Invitation Suite on Wood – Pamela Williams Photography
Bar Menu – Kaylee Hunter Photo
Lemon Sign – Emma Estell Photo
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