Today we’d like to introduce you to Marie Goins.
Hi Marie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My story really begins with my family. Growing up, I watched my grandmother save greeting cards and handwritten notes from family and people in the community. She would often pull them out and reread them. My mother did the same—treating memories as something worth holding onto. Being surrounded by that taught me early on that moments and stories matter.
As a teenager, I naturally gravitated toward creating. I didn’t call it graphic design back then—I was just making flyers, banners, doodling in notepads, and designing t-shirts for friends, or for fun. I didn’t see it as a career path at the time; it was simply something I enjoyed doing while internalizing the values I learned at home about care and intention.
Later, I worked at the Office Depot copy center. At the time, it felt like just a job, but looking back, it played a much bigger role than I realized. I learned about printing, layout, deadlines, and what it takes to help people turn ideas into something tangible. That experience quietly connected my creativity with real-world application.
Over time, all of those pieces came together. I began to see graphic design as more than visuals—it became a way to help people honor memories, celebrate milestones, and communicate what matters most. That realization led to the creation of Memento Graphics.
Today, I use design to support individuals, families, and startups during meaningful moments/milestones. The work I do is rooted in the same values I learned growing up: care, intention, and respect for people’s stories. What started with watching my family preserve memories has grown into a purpose-driven business built on honoring them.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, the road has not been smooth. Like many small business owners, I’ve had moments of doubt—battling imposter syndrome and questioning whether I was truly ready to take the leap into entrepreneurship. Limited business knowledge, lack of resources, time/scheduling constraints, and little to no funding felt overwhelming. Finding reliable vendors and accessing the right tools often seemed impossible.
Still, tiny victories kept me going and quietly built my confidence. Creating obituaries and memorial programs for families through a local funeral home showed me how meaningful my work was, and reminded me that what I create can resonate deeply with others.
Every challenge and every successful project helped me grow. Those tough moments didn’t stop me—they made me stronger and gave me a better sense of my “WHY.” Each hurdle has shaped how I run my business and who I am as a business owner. I just keep going, putting my heart into each project, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come, even when things felt uncertain.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At Memento Graphics, I create custom designs that help people and businesses mark meaningful moments. I’m best known as a milestone graphic designer, supporting clients through important transitions such as launching a new business, celebrating major life events, or honoring the life of a loved one. My work includes branding materials for startups, invitations and event designs, memorial programs, campaign pieces, and keepsake items meant to be treasured.
What I’m most proud of is the trust people place in me during those moments. Families trust me to create memorial programs with care and sensitivity, and entrepreneurs, community leaders, and candidates trust my designs to help them connect with their audiences.
What sets Memento Graphics apart is the heart behind the work. I take time to listen, collaborate, and create designs that don’t just look good, but truly reflect the meaning behind each milestone.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey is that relationships truly build businesses. Word-of-mouth, trust, and community support have mattered far more than any marketing budget. Along the way, I’ve also learned how essential clear communication is—setting expectations early around timelines, revisions, and scope saves everyone time, energy, and frustration. I’ve had to accept that I wouldn’t know everything at the start, and that growth comes from staying open, learning, and adapting as I go. And perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned that my work has value. Underpricing may feel safer in the beginning, but it often leads to burnout rather than sustainability. These lessons continue to shape how I show up, serve my clients, and build with intention.
Pricing:
- Design consultations – starting at $50
- Flyer design – starting at $75
- Logo Design – starting at $85
- Invitation & Event Materials – starting at $125
- Memorial Programs & Tribute Pieces – starting at $150
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mementographics.com
- Other: mementogfx@gmail.com
