Today we’d like to introduce you to Catherine Cotton.
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 have been drawing. I drew on the corners of my notes in class, napkins at restaurants and handouts at church. I have always had an interest in fashion and so I pursued a degree in Apparel Design at Baylor University. After falling in love with my fashion illustration class, I began to dabble in watercolor and haven’t stopped painting since! The summer after I graduated, I got the idea from a friend to paint brides in their wedding dresses as a special wedding gift and keepsake. I began painting these illustrations for friends and once I saw the positive reactions, I decided to try making this into a business. Five years in and Marry Me In Spring has grown into a sustainable and thriving business. Today I offer Live Event paintings, custom paintings and have a variety of paper goods in retail stores around the country.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Each season, my business grows and changes. It has been a wild ride over the last five years and I am always trying to determine what the best direction will be and how to reach my goals. There have been slow seasons, busy seasons and seasons in between filled with doubt and fear. I did not go to school for business, so each day, I am learning something new and trusting that God will provide and guide me in the way I should go. Many times I have taken a step out into the unknown. Whether that be posting my work on Instagram, teaching a watercolor class, paying for a booth at an art show, or saying yes to painting something I have never painted before. Although these things have been scary to try, they always teach me something new about what I enjoy and don’t enjoy. It has not been a smooth road, but it has been full. Full of adventure and excitement!
Please tell us about your business.
From Live Wedding Paintings, Custom Illustrations to Prints in my shop, I have illustrated pieces of art that are personal, meaningful and beautiful for the ones you love most and the moments you never want to forget. Whether you are celebrating a wedding day, an Anniversary, a new baby, a first home, a beloved pet, or anything in between, Marry Me In Spring was created to help you remember the meaningful seasons that add up to a lifelong story & to celebrate the ones you love most. My paintings are set apart because they capture people’s unique stories and emotions like no photograph ever could. There is something powerful about capturing a memory in the form of watercolor. I am passionate about helping people remember the story that is being written in their life.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I would not be where I am today without God, my family, friends, clients or businesses that have helped me along this journey. I am so thankful to God for giving me the gift of painting and creativity. My family members are my biggest cheerleaders and are right by my side every step of the way. My friends are always helping me with ideas, jumping in to package prints, photograph products, set up my booths at shows and encourage me along the way. I was also privileged to work with many businesses and shows throughout the years, including The Magnolia Silobration and The Spring at the Silos events which were a huge help in growing my following. Lastly, I am so grateful for each client I have worked with and their continued support. It is humbling and beautiful to share in people’s stories and to paint their memories. I am so very grateful for everyone who has poured into my business with their time, encouragement and talents!
Pricing:
- Custom Watercolor Paintings begin at $175
- Live Event Paintings begin at $1500
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marrymeinspring.com
- Email: contact@marrymeinspring.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marrymeinspring/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marrymeinspring/
Image Credit:
Holly Crabtree
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