Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Boyce.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Erin. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I stumbled into wedding invitation design shortly after my own wedding nine years ago. My sister took a job in wedding planning and asked me to help do some design work for her clients. Our dad was actually a graphic designer in Dallas for 35 years and I used to watch him work all the time growing up. I knew my way around all the programs and had some design classes in college so I begin designing wedding programs, invites, and menus as a side hustle alongside my full-time job. I took calligraphy classes and started slowly adding new services for my clients. My previous clients recommended me to their friends getting married, and with my sister’s referrals, after a few years I was able to make the decision to take my side hustle full time. Last year I was able to buy my antique 1890s letterpress machine “Ladybird” and started offering letterpress services which has been a great investment in my business. I really love working with my hands and getting away from the computer. I just fixed up my garage as a studio and now am working on making handmade paper as well. I am so excited that wedding paper trends are embracing all things artisan and handmade. I am honored and proud to be able to provide my clients with products made by traditional techniques and with my own two hands.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
There is always a learning curve when learning new techniques and methods like calligraphy and letterpress. Honestly, I feel like I’m still learning. Every day I get a little more confident but there is always room to improve. I’m also still learning about running my own business, figuring out what my strengths are and when to ask for help. Thankfully I have had wonderful support from my husband, friends and clients which keeps me going when I start to doubt myself.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Prairie and Sage – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I run a boutique letterpress and design company that specializes in wedding invitations and social stationery. I offer in-house digital printing services, letterpress printing, calligraphy, custom design services and handmade paper. I use traditional techniques which are planet friendly and sustainable. For example, I recycle all of my paper trimmings for my handmade paper to create less waste.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
For now, I’m excited to focus on honing my papermaking skills and experiment with new materials. There are so many things you can make paper out of and I want to find a use for overlooked materials that can be repurposed to make beautiful paper.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.prairieandsage.com
- Email: erin@prairieandsage.com
- Instagram: prairie_and_sage
Image Credit:
Charla Storey
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