It was such a joy to meet and interview Jacqueline, master graphic designer and stationer of Paper Willow. I just adore her work – I love stationery, and I love her style for my personal correspondence. I could easily bankrupt myself in her shop!
We chatted over a raspberry mojito and a blood orange mimosa about business, making, and ourselves. Listen now!
Highlights in this episode include:
- The never-ending journey of developing your artistic style
- The importance of questioning received wisdom – and how you can be so much better off if you do
- Jacqueline’s experience of someone infringing on her copyright
- The psychological boost of winning awards – which are surprisingly long-lasting!
- How an idea becomes a card
Connect with Jacqueline:
Resources mentioned in this episode:
This is episode 7 of my Cocktails & Chat series, a community-building project for makers and artisans to share the highs and lows of business and making and make it a bit less lonely.
- 1:32 – Introducing Jacqueline
- 6:26 – Jacqueline’s process for designing and creating a card
- 12:00 – A common myth about graphic design
- 14:30 – What we’re drinking tonight
- 16:28 – Jacqueline’s journey from teaching to self-employment – and what we both enjoy about running our own businesses
- 21:07 – Jacqueline’s artistic exploration to her current style
- 31:24 – How applying for and winning awards have helped Jacqueline and her business
- 36:18 – The joy and impact of having a dedicated work space – Jacqueline’s new studio
- 38:29 – Rebranding
- 41:05 – Jacqueline’s experience of copyright infringement
- 45:57 – Jacqueline’s favourite creative endeavours beyond graphic design
- 48:58 – Some other graphic designers who Jacqueline finds inspiring
- 52:11 – The importance of sharing your questions, triumphs, and tribulations with a business bestie who gets it
- 54:24 – Jacqueline’s exciting new venture: Not On The High Street!
- 56:54 – How do you know when a work is finished?