Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Clark.
Catherine, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been writing. I used to pen poems and songs in my “secret” little diary… the one with a key and lock, lol. I wrote to myself, wrote to the Lord, or wrote to an imaginary audience… I simply wrote. I dealt heavily with low self-esteem and childhood Depression. Writing felt like therapy. Throughout middle and high school, I continued to write, which eventually lead to journaling. The older I grew, the more I wrote.
One day, while walking from class, I shared a poem with a friend… she thought it was amazing! Then, I would randomly share my poems with strangers, I’d meet. A gentleman asked, “Hey, have you ever thought about performing live – like Spoken Word?” I met another young man who recognized the gift – as he was a spoken artist as well … so, he challenged me. I took his advice and passionate fire lit up in me. I knew there was more to this poetry. I discovered I had a gift and believed I had a purpose that would change the world in an unprecedented way.
While attending the University of Central Florida, I grew closer to God and became more involved in my ministry and my eclectic; creative abilities were welcomed with open arms. Through the mentorship of a faith-based women’s organization on campus, I started my 1st business. The founder saw potential and showed interest to help a passionate, driven, young lady, who only wanted to make an impact with her talents. After performing spoken word at various events and open mics within my local community, I desired to use it in a different light – a light that could touch humanity past the stage. So, I began a writing service called Personalized Poetic Memories. I wrote custom poems for various people and occasions. I was so excited about this new venture, but over time became discouraged due to low engagement.
Let’s fast forward…
In 2019, I participated as a vendor at a business expo. We were encouraged to mingle with the other vendors. There was one vendor who caught my eye. They were stationed and waiting for potential customers. The booth was incredibly attractive with bright colors and imagery, and the owners seemed intriguing, so I walked over and asked questions. After a while, they asked…. “Well, what do you do?” Then I went on a rant about every display on my table… “Oh I have nonprofit called Beauty Boxx Inc., I’m a spoken word artist- I have spoken word albums, I’m a Zumba instructor, and I’m currently Ms. Orlando – hoping to win the National title as Ms. Corporate America 2019 (which I did and it’s been an exciting reign!!!) … ”
Finally, I briefly mentioned, “Oh yeah, years ago – I used to write custom poetry for special occasions and various holidays like for Valentine’s Day, Birthday’s, Anniversary’s, etc…” The intrigued power couple stopped me in mid-sentence exclaiming, “Now that’s what I should see at your table!” The same fire that was lit 10 years ago has been rekindled and here we are today!
Has it been a smooth road?
Entrepreneurship is not for the faint at heart. It hasn’t been the easiest journey; however, it’s been the most fulfilling.
Creativity is a gift and only those who seek it – finds it. I’ve entertained countless conversations along the way about this concept and it usually ends with… “That’s a cool idea… Is there a market for it?” My response, “Yep, they just don’t know it yet.”
Innovation rests at the feet of pioneers.
Please tell us about Love Notes for U.
Love Notes for U is a faith-based sentiment collection brand that captures and customizes memories in audio, visual, and word form. Sometimes, it difficult to express how we feel, especially to those we love the most. Pictures may fade, cards are eventually thrown away, but words remain. We remember how people make us feel… so, we capture moments with words. Words are powerful. There’s a proverb that says, “Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs it down, but a good (encouraging) word makes it glad.
We help people preserve milestones by expressing how they feel through letters, poetry, and/or videos as memento gifts. For example, letter writing is a lost art, but its value is still present and relevant. We promote gratitude, healing, and soundness of the mind through our handwriting letter services called Forgive Me Letters and Thank U Letters. We also provide customized writing services and products to funeral homes servicing bereaved families.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Yes, it’s clear that we’re in a digital age. It’s a continual adjustment. As our team grows, it’s important that they have flexibility – including working from home.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.lovenotesforu.com
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