Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Banks.
Hi Michelle, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I remember enjoying and receiving beautiful handwritten invitations in the mail many years ago. I wanted to start something of my own to help support my family that I believed I would be good at while being a stay-at-home mom of four young kids at the time. I started my calligraphy business after taking a calligraphy class that I really enjoyed in Birmingham, Alabama. I went around to local flower shops, invitation, and bridal boutiques, leaving samples of my work. At the time, I was selling my envelopes for little to nothing, just trying to get experience and putting my work out there. I eventually added on wedding planning and provided that service for many years, as my journey continued, I was led to put the wedding planning down and focus on the calligraphy side of the business. So, for many years, God directed my steps as I put one foot in front of the other to step out to do what I believed what he was calling me to do. I was then awarded a full business mentorship scholarship through Laura Hooper Calligraphy which took my calligraphy to another level. I have learned from so many wonderful artists over the years (too many to list), investing in my business and practicing my craft. It takes hours and hours to get better at it and I am so grateful and blessed that I get the opportunity to do it.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Absolutely not a smooth road! I am a two-time cancer survivor. I was diagnosed in 2011 with stage 3 breast cancer, with a 50/50 chance of responding to treatment. Being a wife and raising four small children while running a small business was very challenging to say the least. Then a few years later in 2014, I was diagnosed with a rare childhood bone cancer. I had to undergo chemotherapy and radiation both times. The prognosis didn’t look good at first… But God! When you believe God has put something in your heart to do…you have to step out on faith to find out. It is a constant battle of renewing your mind on truth and knowing that you ARE good enough in His strength (Philippians 4:13), and while you don’t do everything perfectly, that you are a work in progress. It can also be a constant battle of playing the comparison game. Truth is… we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Everyone has their own unique individual gift and purpose and what they bring to the table. We can all help each other in this world of calligraphy and spread the love to everyone. 🙂
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Michelle Banks Calligraphy & Engraving adds personal touches to last a lifetime. I believe the coolest thing in the world is to personalize something for someone. Whether it is a simple name written on a keepsake, envelope, place card, or a special experience that I can create for your corporate or private events. The response from a client and the look on their face when they receive something with their name on it, or something handcrafted, is priceless. To actually take the time to make it special for someone. That is the most rewarding part of the business. I have had the opportunity to work for private and social events as well as luxury brands.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I believe there will be even more opportunities to create live onsite experiences for guests. People who appreciate the classic art of calligraphy and writing will always want to get their items personalized with handwritten touches.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.calligraphybymichelle.com
- Instagram: @michellebcalligraphy
Image Credits
Stephanie Smith Photography
