Today we’d like to introduce you to Claudia Strenger.
Claudia, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I’m originally from Colombia, considered a “Paisa”. I grew up in Armenia, Quindio, one of Colombia’s leading coffee-producing regions. So, I love coffee – let’s just start there.
I don’t recall anyone in my family working in the coffee industry, but I do come from a long linage of artists. I’ve always had a little love affair with technology and so, graphic design felt like a perfect fit.
I went off to study Graphic Design in Santiago, Chile and later got my Masters’ Degree in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Years later, I was living in San Francisco, California, working as a graphic designer for Toyota and Apple. While living in SF, I took my first calligraphy class with Friends of Calligraphy and I absolutely loved it!
Although I felt quite accomplished and enjoyed my work at those big companies, it was a little logo/branding project for my aunt that changed my life. She was opening a restaurant and cafeteria — she had a vision, but needed help.
Working together, it was collaborative and personal. I even got to use some of the calligraphy skills that I had recently learned. It was a small project, that helped me see the big picture.
Shortly after, I had family and friends reaching out to me asking for calligraphy for their wedding invitations and signage. I did it for fun at first — until, through word of mouth, I was getting so many request that I left my graphic design job to do Wedding Stationery full-time.
I wouldn’t necessarily say that I’ve changed careers, but my design process and what I make, has definitely become more personal and rewarding.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I’ve had several challenges, but the truth is, the ride is awesome!
The great times are working with Brides. I love collaborating. This is the creative part.
However, just because I love working with clients and I have a craft, does NOT mean that I know how to run a business.
Meetings, phone calls, brainstorming, designing, writing and drawing – how can I charge for doing what I love? And how much should I charge? Let’s just say that this part has been a process, learning how to charge and understand the value that I bring to my clients. Of course, I still get to have my fun.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I’m not just a calligrapher – I’m different.
I help couples craft the wedding experience of their dreams.
I’m a designer first. Long before I got involved in the wedding stationery industry, I’ve worked as a user-experience designer and as a graphic designer. My approach with each couple is to listen and develop the look and feel that tells their unique story. If you follow me on Instagram you’ll see the variety of services that I offer.
I believe that no detail is too small, that’s where the love is and the smallest details often lead to big impressions.
I’m part of a community of wedding vendors and our motto is, “Community over Competition”. This is something that I strongly believe in. I don’t feel like I’m in competition with these people, they are my family. We work together, we share clients, and we critique one another’s work. Believe it or not, in our free time we create our own events. I mean, we are planners, florists, DJs, photographers and calligraphers and we have venues – we know how to party!
Although I’m fairly new to the wedding biz, I’ve learned so much. I’m more than happy to share my experiences and/or advice. I welcome new couples and vendors to reach out to me – let’s get to know each other!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
When I think about success, I think about accomplishment.
This happens when I accomplish daily goals, like finishing a project or just making time for myself.
When my brides get as excited as I am about their invitations – I feel successful. When I see my (calligraphy) students accomplish something that they were doubtful about – I feel successful.
But the real reward of success is something that I feel over time. Making my living as a calligrapher and stationer is a goal that I never imagined that I could have accomplished. The ability to realize my potential and accomplish goals that help create a more meaningful life for myself and those around me – that feels like true success.
Pricing:
- My custom wedding suites start at $1500. I also offer several semi-custom packages starting at $875. You still get beautifully designed stationery, but for a lower price than custom work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.claudiastrenger.com/
- Phone: (407) 917-5274
- Email: hello@claudiastrenger.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claudiastrenger/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/claudiastrengercalligraphy/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/claudia-strenger-sunny-isles-beach
- Other: https://www.weddingwire.com/biz/claudia-strenger-calligraphy/fbb96e2e2e0c4f40.html
Image Credit:
@thecardonas, @vanessavelezphotography, @enuelvieraphoto
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