Today we’d like to introduce you to Kacey Medenwaldt
Hi Kacey, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I grew up with very little material wealth but was surrounded by an abundance of love from my family and friends. While my childhood had its challenges, it shaped me into the person I am today. Having so little made me incredibly grateful for everything I have. From a young age, I was drawn to art—whether it was drawing, coloring, or crafting—and that’s where I felt most at home. I always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer, and although my path has shifted, that creative spark never faded.
In high school, I attended Monticello High, where I learned about the College of Visual Arts (CVA) at a college fair. After visiting the campus, I decided to pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design there. CVA was located near the James J. Hill House in St. Paul, a vibrant and fascinating area with a lot to explore. My first year at CVA was a great experience with amazing teachers and classmates. However, midway through the year, we learned that CVA was closing, forcing me to transfer to a new school.
It took some effort to find a college that would accept my credits, but I eventually enrolled at MCAD (Minneapolis College of Art and Design), where many of my former CVA classmates also transferred. After the chaos of changing schools and settling into a new routine, I could finally focus on my studies. MCAD required two internships as part of the program, and I completed one at Urban Arts Academy, a nonprofit school in Minneapolis. My second internship was at the Walker Art Center, where I worked in their family programs and education department for six months. I graduated from MCAD with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, along with minors in Art History and Teaching Artist.
After college, I was fortunate to land a job at Ivory Isle Designs in Waconia, Minnesota, a company specializing in print and stationery design for events like weddings. I had been worried about finding a job, with people telling me that being a designer was a tough field to break into, but Josie at IID gave me an opportunity that I will always be grateful for. At IID, I designed and handcrafted beautiful stationery for clients and gained valuable experience in the design world. I even had the chance to work on a feature for Twin Cities Live and collaborate with local venues for wedding photoshoots. After two years, it was time to move on.
I then worked as a freelance designer before taking a job managing a print shop in Princeton, Minnesota, at Minuteman Press. There, I learned a great deal about the printing process and how important it is for designers to understand the technical side of printing. After nearly two years, I felt ready for another change.
My next step was exploring marketing. Although I had dabbled in marketing throughout college and previous jobs, it was never my primary focus, but I soon realized how closely it ties into graphic design. I joined New American Funding in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, as their Marketing Account Executive, where I designed materials and managed marketing efforts for the Loan Officers. When COVID-19 hit, I transitioned to working from home, and now I serve as the Graphic Designer for the Great Lakes Florida Region of NAF, a role I truly enjoy. In 2024, I was awarded the Marketing MVP award for my region.
Alongside my full-time work, I have always done freelance design for small businesses, friends, and family. In 2020, I officially launched my Etsy shop, where I sell greeting cards that I personally design. Each card on my Etsy page was made for someone I care about at some point in my life. Over time, I have expanded my business and began working with local businesses in Anoka, Minnesota. My products are now available at Avant Garden and R Marketplace, and I participate in their vendor events to connect with the community. This has been a significant turning point for my business, allowing it to grow and thrive.
Today, I continue to sell my products on Etsy, but I am also working on launching my own website to expand my reach. Anoka has become my home, and I am deeply grateful for the support I’ve received from the local community as I continue to pursue my passion.
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?
The most challenging aspect of running my small business has been dealing with the administrative side—the paperwork, taxes, and legal matters—things that no one really teaches you. It was tough to navigate at first, but eventually, I asked the right questions and figured out the essential steps. The business side of entrepreneurship doesn’t always come naturally to creative people like me. On top of that, one of my cats, Arlo, has a habit of chewing on the plastic that my paper products are packaged in, which adds another layer of difficulty to managing my business. Keeping him away from my supplies has been a constant challenge!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in print design, with a deep passion for stationery. Print is where my heart lies, and it’s been the focus of my work for years. With about 10 years of experience in design and marketing, I’ve learned invaluable lessons along the way. From designing and handcrafting wedding stationery at IID to running a print shop and discovering how my designs come to life, I’ve gained insights that are incredibly powerful in the design industry. One of the most frequent questions I get from clients is, “What can you make?” My answer is always, “If I can print it, I can create it for you.” In the stationery world, there’s very little I feel I can’t do—though, of course, there are limits.
My clients know me for my business aesthetic and my greeting card designs. Many of my products are sold in local businesses in Anoka, and when I attend vendor events, people recognize me and my work through my products and logo.
I’m particularly proud of a recent feature in Rocky Mountain Bride Magazine, where one of my clients showcased the place cards and table numbers I created for her wedding. Those place cards were some of my finest work, and they looked absolutely perfect on her special day.
What sets me apart is my dedication to creating beautiful things. My goal is for my clients to have these beautiful creations to help them celebrate and make meaningful memories in their lives.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
There are two things I think my clients may not know about my business.
First, every greeting card you see on my Etsy page has been personally created for someone in my life. Each card was inspired by a special person, which makes every design deeply meaningful to me.
Second, I also specialize in wedding stationery. I feel that many people either know I create wedding stationery or they don’t. While I’m well-known for my greeting cards, I’d love for people to keep me in mind when planning their special day as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kaceycreations.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaceycreationsshop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaceycreationsshop
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacey-medenwaldt-061a79a7/
