Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Franklin.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Alex. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I graduated with a BFA in studio art and graphic design with plans to teach junior high art. I did this for several years and absolutely loved it. While doing so I learned how to communicate my craft in an accessible and empowering way to kids that are in the stage of self-discovery (and self-doubt!). It was so rewarding to see my love of art multiplied in those students that I had the privilege of teaching.
I believe this kind of empowerment through art laid the foundation of where I am today. After a move to California from Dallas, I married my now husband, Andrew, and he encouraged me to explore what it would be like to start my own small business. I started out with weddings and it grew to not only bespoke invitations but logo design and commissioned artwork of all kinds.
On top of these various projects, while living in the San Francisco Bay Area, I began working for a card company called Good Paper, and have had the privilege of designing for them for 4 years now. They are playful clever cards and I get to illustrate things like cute little chicks doing yoga – who knew this could be a passion! These cards are actually created by women who have escaped human trafficking in the Philipines – the empowerment of art continues!
I now live in Dallas again, with Andrew and our 1.5-year-old Augustine, and am balancing being with my son full time as well as designing for Good Paper and freelance projects that come my way!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Oh not at all! I am completely unorganized and do not like doing anything that seems ‘business-y’- which makes owning your own business challenging, to say the least.
Pricing is also very difficult. I constantly struggle with self-doubt (trying to remember all the advice I would give to my junior high students here) and feeling as if I am charging too much for what I am producing.I know this is a struggle for all creatives! What has been a smooth road though, is actually creating. We were made to work, and I am constantly humbled that, along with raising a little boy, that work includes something I am so passionate about!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Alex Leigh Franklin and Good Paper – what should we know?
Alex Leigh Franklin: I specialize in bespoke invitations, watercolor paintings, and logo design. I would say that most people that seek out my services are interested in watercolor flowers, whether that is for wedding invitations, baby shower invitations, artwork for their homes, or branding for their business.
I am most proud (and still cannot believe this happened!) of a landscape watercolor of New Zealand I painted for James Cameron, the filmmaker. The painting was a gift for him from a family member, so who knows if he actually has it displayed, but either way this wildly creative individual has laid eyes on one of my paintings! haha.
Good Paper Cards: We design cards that are fair trade, use recycled paper, and employ women in the Philippines that once were enslaved. This company is doing incredible redemptive work and that is definitely what sets them apart and what I am most proud of! Our cards are also full of puns and ridiculously cute little characters.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My husband is by far my largest support. His constant encouragement and challenges to push myself creatively are much needed! I also had a conversation with artist Jenny Sanders when I was first beginning where she walked me through everything I would have never thought of when owning a small business! She was so kind and generous with her time and knowledge and has made me be intentional in sharing what I have learned along the way as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alexleighfranklin.com, www.goodpaper.com
- Phone: 2146957543
- Email: Alexleighfranklin@gmail.com
Image Credit:
Diana McGregor and Allen Tsai
Jackie Knapp Photography
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