Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawn McMaster.
Hi Dawn , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
The start of my calligraphy business began as a hobby. Like many others in my field, I fell in love with the almost therapeutic nature of calligraphy. I would endlessly watch videos online, and practice my drills for hours at a time. Eventually, this morphed into helping friends address envelopes or create signage for weddings and baby showers. Before I knew it, I was offering my services for different businesses in town. Clearly, it was time to take this hobby and turn it into a legit business. It’s amazing how much it’s continued to grow and change through the years.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has and hasn’t…what business is truly always on a smooth road? I think the struggles I’ve had have mainly stemmed from the feeling that I have to follow what everyone else is doing. That only leads to self doubt and a massive case of imposter syndrome. I’ve worked very hard the past year to let go of what doesn’t belong to me and start following my own path. This “road” is slightly scary, but it’s also very exciting! They say that if your dreams excite you and scare you just a little, you’re going the right direction. I firmly believe that.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I provide live calligraphy and in studio services. My clients are often luxury brands, corporate events or activations,
and weddings. I provide a variety of services, including engraving, hot foiling or debossing, and bottle painting. While I specialize in the art of calligraphy, I also like to think I specialize in the art of conversation. A huge component of my job is to connect with people. Clients hire me to create an unexpected “moment” at their events, so that when the guests leave, we’ve left them with an indelible memory. They want THE experience. They want to FEEL something. They want their brand/event to stand out, create memorable experiences for their clients, and ensure client retention. I deliver this through the art of calligraphy.
What I’m currently most proud of is my authenticity. I love meeting and connecting with people. The opportunity to make someone feel seen, in a world where many sometimes feel invisible, is a gift I don’t take lightly. I use my craft as a way of connection. As it turns out, calligraphy is a great way to strike up conversation.
Last year my business grew by 200%, so I feel I’m going in the right direction!
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Connection through art makes me happy. I’ve become a part of a beautiful community of artists and calligraphers. I’ve met people from so many different walks of life. I’ve been able to honor lost loved ones through engraving. I’ve celebrated new marriages and new babies through events. I’ve talked to people who used to practice calligraphy and talked them into giving it another go.
I never expected the joy that creation and connection brings. Perhaps it’s because so much of our daily lives are now online, we’ve lost some of our ability to socialize or interact. But I find that most people are just like me, looking for small ways to connect with others. I’m blessed that my pen is the perfect conduit for engagement.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.firstlightcalligraphy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firstlight_calligraphy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firstlightcalligraphy
Image Credits
Aubree Clark Photography
