Today we’d like to introduce you to Madeline Nelson.
Hi Madeline, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’ve always had a passion for art and design. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in integrated strategic communication with an emphasis in public relations and a minor in marketing. After graduation, I landed a digital marketing and social media management position for a local company. I decided I wanted to branch out on my own and take a risk, following an encouraging conversation with a friend in the business (Meghan Pacocha @styledspacesbymeg). Combining my love for creation and artistry with my social media marketing skills, I felt I had a strong enough foundation to start and run my own business, so I created Madeline Kay Design Co., where I specialize in custom handwritten stationery, calligraphy, and signage for weddings and other special events, as well as graphic design. I also offer place setting cards/name tags, table numbers, and any other details you may need for your special day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey as a business owner has been a rollercoaster. Of course, there are times as a creator when you hit a lull in creativity. However, remembering that your outcome is only as solid as the amount of hard work you put in will help you to continuously adapt to be a better version of yourself and your business.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Madeline Kay Design Co., my goal is to approach each project with passion and attention to detail. As for timelines, production processes, and customer inquiries, a client will either send an inquiry to the inbox on my site, or email, text, or call me. We then discuss what it is they have in mind for their event, including styles, colors, and sizes, then I’d create a digital mood board to ensure we’re on the same page. We discuss if they want to rent the sign (if it’s a fixed/set design), or if they’d prefer to purchase if it is a custom design (with names, dates, etc.). Once this happens, the production process moves fairly quickly, depending on the date of the event and the extent of the order. I maintain a consistent presence on social media; Having a marketing background has helped tremendously in the social landscape. Despite my previously mentioned passion for graphic design, the majority of what I create is handwritten and painted. I primarily produce a version of modern script. I love the idea of combining classic, timeless calligraphy with a modern style. I will soon be offering other services more catered to the digital design aspect of creation, including custom digital illustrations. I am constantly evaluating ways in which I can evolve my brand and product in response to market demand, as well as what I personally find to be successful in this space.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
When I look back on my childhood, the thing I remember most fondly is discovering my love for art at a young age. While I can’t necessarily pinpoint that discovery to a single moment in time, I always painted, colored, drew, or created jewelry, collages, or clothes with scraps we had laying around the house. My dream job as a child was to be an artist or fashion designer, so I’m content with where I am now.
Contact Info:
- Website: madelineknelson.wixsite.com/website
- Instagram: instagram.com/madelinekaydesignco/
- Facebook: facebook.com/madelinekaydesignco
Image Credits
Sarah Neal of SMMG Photography
Erika Diaz (@erikadiazphoto)
