Today we’d like to introduce you to Yesenia Castro Rodriguez.
Yesenia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always been a creative. As a young girl, I would always doodle, practice bubble lettering (who remembers that?) and would draft interior design concepts for my childhood home. My grandmother perfected my penmanship when I was very very young and was very strict about it. I am so thankful now! As I got older, friends and family complimented my penmanship and would ask me to letter something on their behalf, greeting cards, posters, any kind of gift tag and then a friend suggested I make it a business! I looked into starting an Etsy shop and the rest is history. My husband was my number one supporter from day one and for that, I am forever thankful. I started my shop in November 2015 with mostly seasonal decor and had a sale within 24 hours (beginner’s luck probably, but it really motivated me!) Since then, I’ve ventured into artwork, event signage for weddings and showers, envelope addressing, ornaments and most recently my best sellers – my customized pumpkins!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like any small business, at first, I had to get the hang of nationwide shipping, weight, diameter, etc and had to figure out how to secure profit margins. I also learned to say no, and price my work correctly. I was nervous about losing a client and would price my items low to secure the sale, I quickly learned that lesson and have learned to never settle now that I know what my work is worth.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an artist and calligrapher and specialize in hand-lettered, customized items. I am most proud of finding my way back to my inner child in my twenties and being bold and brave enough to pursue my creativity. I am also proud of being the first business owner in my family and being fearless in my pursuit of entrepreneurship. What sets me apart from others is that I don’t cut corners. I handwrite thank you notes. I double and triple-check my work for human error and I go the extra mile to make sure each client is happy with their purchase. I am very much in touch with the human part of business and I consider it my biggest strength.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I’ve taken plenty of risks in my life. My viewpoint on it is simple. “if you don’t risk anything, you risk even more.” – Erica Jong
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @soulhappycalligraphy
