Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Deniesha Johnson of Twin Cities

Deniesha Johnson shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Good morning Deniesha, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day always start with prayer and gratitude, just taking a moment to thank God for another day and the strength to show up for it. After that, it’s straight into mom mode! I’ve got two kids to get ready for school, which means making breakfast, doing hair, picking out outfits (or pulling them fresh out the dryer), and making sure everyone’s where they need to be on time. Once drop-off is done, that’s when I can finally take a deep breath and shift into my day.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Deniesha Johnson, the owner and creative behind D. Johnson & Co. Greetings; a custom stationery and greeting card boutique that celebrates culture, creativity, and connection. I handcraft keepsake-quality cards that are as meaningful as the moments they honor, often infused with a cultural or personal touch that makes each one one-of-a-kind.

What makes my brand special is the heart behind it, every design is made with intention to help people feel seen, valued, and loved. Beyond the cards, I’m expanding the brand through creative workshops for women and students, offering unforgettable, hands-on experiences that inspire self-expression and connection. I’m also working toward launching a mobile boutique, bringing the beauty of meaningful, artful cards directly to communities everywhere.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My best friend’s mom did. During the early days of D. Johnson & Co Greetings, I sent my family and friends a handmade Mother’s Day card during COVID. But she loved it so much that she became my very first customer and biggest encourager. She saw the heart, care, and artistry behind my work in a way that reminded me of why I started to make people feel seen, loved, and appreciated. Two years later, after she passed away, her niece told me how much that first card I sold to my friend’s mom meant to her and how she cherished it. That moment reaffirmed my purpose, that what I create isn’t just a card, it’s a keepsake of love and connection that truly lasts.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I think that shift happened when I realized I was no longer fulfilled by simply functioning in the corporate world. For years, I had been doing what was expected of me; building a career, checking boxes, showing up in every role but my own. Deep down, I’ve always been creative. Art was where I felt free as a child, but somewhere along the way, I tucked that part of me away to fit the mold of a “corporate professional.”

When I started creating cards again, it was almost therapeutic, especially during the early months of the pandemic. It reconnected me to something I had buried for years: the joy of making, the beauty of thoughtfulness, and the power of seeing and celebrating people who often go unseen. The more I created, the more I began to heal.

I stopped hiding behind titles and perfectionism. I stopped shrinking to make others comfortable. And stepped out boldly to start using that creative energy…and even my pain/ fears, as power. That’s how D. Johnson & Co Greetings was born. It became more than a business; it became a reflection of freedom, authenticity, and purpose. Every card I design carries a piece of that transformation.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My friends would definitely say my kids and my business. They know how much I pour into both. My children are my heart, and I’m intentional about showing them what it looks like to follow your passion and create something meaningful from the ground up. And my business… it’s not just about making cards, it’s about the impact they can have. Whether it’s helping someone express love, encouragement, or grief, I care deeply about creating something that touches people and makes them feel seen. At the end of the day, I want my kids to see that purpose, creativity, and love can build something real.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing? 
I’d regret not following my passions, giving up on myself, or ignoring what’s been placed on my heart to do. I never want to look back and wonder “what if?” because I was too afraid to take the risk. Every idea, every creative spark… I believe it’s there for a reason. So even when it’s uncomfortable or uncertain, I remind myself that I’d rather try and learn than play it safe and never know what could’ve been.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.djohnsonandcogreetings.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d.johnsonandco_greetings/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/66692650/admin/dashboard/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djohnsonandcogreetings

Image Credits
JaNae Castile