Happy Birthday Creative Calligraphy!

Creative Calligraphy is celebrating its fourth birthday!

That’s quite an achievement, when research shows barely half of start-up companies in the UK make it past the three-year mark (there’s an excellent infographic here).

You don’t often get chance to reflect on your achievements as you go along – it’s usually something like an anniversary that sparks the opportunity.

Growing up

I started trading on May 27, 2014 – just shy of four months since taking redundancy.

The highs have certainly outweighed the lows and I’m starting to find my groove, so I suppose my business is moving from the ‘start-up’ to ‘growth’ phase.

This year has been the busiest start to a calendar year I’ve had so far, so I’m certainly starting to feel more established.

But I must admit, there have still been a few times when the thought of packing it all in has crossed my mind – usually when I feel pressed for time!

I still really enjoy working for myself though and sharing my skills with others.

Investment reaps rewards

In the last year, I’ve invested in product photography and given my website a makeover, which has definitely reaped rewards.

I know it was directly responsible for securing my first collaboration with a high-end brand.

Being asked by Aspinal of London to write personalised messages for gift purchases over the Valentine’s Day weekend was definitely a highlight of the last year.

I can also count Nissan, Sunderland City Council and Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art among my corporate clients after carrying out work for them in the last year.

Commissions and collaborations

I’ve had another year of working with The Cultural Spring to deliver workshops in South Shields.

My weekly class at Westoe Crown Community Hub (pictured, left) also won funding from its Your Art scheme to bring in guest artist Graham Hodgson to further enhance their skills.

I’ve collaborated with lots of other lovely small businesses too, both locally and nationally, including Embellish, Spotlight Stationery, Razzle Dazzle Rose, The Pen Company and Paper Craze.

My workshop programme continues to grow, with several regular venues now established.

I’ve also been involved in two (successful) marriage proposals – and many more commissions with special stories behind them that make my heart happy.

Thanks for your support 

So, here’s to at least another year of doing something that makes me happy.

I believe the saying goes something like ‘If you find something you love, you’ll never work a day in your life’.

Running a business is tough – you’re responsible for everything – but ultimately, I enjoy doing it.

I set some goals at the start of 2018, but the main aim was to keep the momentum going and five months into the year, things seem to be going well.

So thank you very much for supporting my business!