Today we’d like to introduce you to Callie Koch.
Hi Callie , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started Paper Disco on December 31, 2019, while I was living in my sorority house at the University of Oklahoma. At the time, it was really just a creative outlet. I began by designing stationery and stickers because I loved creating products that felt fun, colorful and personal.
As the business grew, so did my interests. A few years later, I expanded into apparel, which opened up a whole new side of the brand. Then about two years ago, I invested in embroidery equipment and started creating embroidered apparel and accessories, which has become one of my favorite parts of the business.
A big part of Paper Disco has also become creating products that encourage positivity and support mental health. Whether it’s a sweatshirt with an encouraging message, a sticker that makes someone smile or a thoughtful gift, I love designing products that help people feel seen, encouraged and a little less alone. It’s something that’s become a core part of the brand as it’s grown.
Since then, Paper Disco has evolved into so much more than I ever imagined. What started as a small passion project has grown into a brand that allows me to create products people genuinely connect with. Along the way, I’ve learned everything from product design and photography to marketing, customer service and running a business. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see something I started from my sorority house turn into what Paper Disco is today.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but I think that’s true for most small businesses. Paper Disco has always been something I’ve built alongside my full-time career. I’m currently a social media manager at a marketing agency, and before that I was the communications manager for a nonprofit. Balancing a full-time job while growing a business means there are busy seasons, slower seasons and times when I’ve had to be patient.
Over the years, I’ve tried a little bit of everything. I’ve sold at vendor markets and events, expanded into new product categories, worked with overseas manufacturers and continued to invest in new equipment and skills, like embroidery. Not every idea has been a huge success, but each one has taught me something and helped shape where Paper Disco is today.
I’ve never had to do Paper Disco alone. My family and friends have been my biggest supporters from the very beginning, whether that’s modeling new sweatshirts, helping at markets, sharing new product launches or simply encouraging me when things felt slow. Their support has meant everything, and I truly don’t think Paper Disco would be where it is today without them.
At the end of the day, it’s always been a passion project. There have been challenges, but getting to create products that bring people joy and encouragement has made every high and low worth it.
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?
By day, I’m a social Media Manager at LDWW, a full-service marketing agency, where I manage social media strategy and content for a variety of clients. Before joining LDWW, I was the Communications Manager for Children’s Health Foundation, where I had the opportunity to tell meaningful stories and support an incredible mission. Both roles have shaped me in different ways and have helped me grow both creatively and professionally.
At LDWW, I get to combine strategy with creativity every day, whether that’s developing strategies, creating content or finding new ways to help brands connect with their audiences. One of my favorite parts of the job is the people. I’m surrounded by incredibly talented teammates who are experts in what they do and constantly encourage each other to grow and do our best work.
I’m probably best known for bringing creative ideas to life while staying organized and detail-oriented. Whether it’s for a client campaign or Paper Disco, I love strategizing and creating content or products that people genuinely connect with.
What I’m most proud of is building Paper Disco while working full time. It has allowed me to apply what I’ve learned throughout my marketing career while continuing to challenge myself as a business owner. I think what sets me apart is that I get to see both sides of the creative world. I understand what it takes to build and market a brand from the agency perspective, but I also know firsthand what it’s like to be the small business owner making every decision behind the scenes.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
It’s hard to choose just one, but two memories immediately come to mind.
The first is when I was about four years old. Me, my mom, my twin and little sister were driving home, and as we pulled into the driveway, my dad was standing outside holding our very first dog, a pug. We named him Buzz, and I still remember how excited we all were. It’s one of those moments that’s stayed with me ever since.
The second is our family trips to Gulf Shores, Alabama, with another family. We would spend all day at the beach, then stay out after dark catching sand crabs and making the most of every minute together. Those vacations were simple, carefree and full of laughter, and they’re some of my favorite childhood memories. I’ll always cherish that time with my family.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://paperdisco.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shop.paperdisco
- Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ShopPaperDisco
