5 Things I've Learned Running a Successful Calligraphy Business

After being in business for over 15 years, the industry’s landscape has changed tremendously. One thing that remains constant however is my adoration of all things calligraphy and lettering. My biggest challenge now is to find the time to show up on socials authentically while still finding time to explore my creativity. The journey really never ends.

It was tough to narrow it down to just five, but here are the most profound things that I’ve learned while running Calligraphy by CT.

1. TO NEVER STOP LEARNING

   One thing to be careful of is complacency. Even though I’ve become known inside the calligraphy sign category and I enjoy executing this kind of work doesn’t mean that I can’t explore other things. Even if I don’t end up adding watercolor painting to my list of services there is nothing wrong with a good dabble and I would encourage everyone to keep themselves open to being inspired by other calligraphers, artists and/or mediums of expression.

2. TO only SURROUND MYSELF with vendors I both love and trust

   The vendors who so generously refer me for projects are based on relationships that have been cultivated over time. If I never got another project from them they would still be on my list of favorite people. It goes beyond monetary gain for me and I want to see them win in every situation. Always so excited when I get the rare opportunity to recommend business their way. While you’ll see some vendor partnerships dissolve over time for whatever reason, learn from those experiences and be determined to grow from them.

3. All projects are not for ME (AND THAT’S OK…)

   There was a time that I jumped at every opportunity to do calligraphy. Now I critically evaluate each project request and determine if its a good fit for me. Being in this industry for so long means that you are in proximity to peers that you may be able to refer work to especially if it looks like it’ll be more of a layup for them. I accept projects outside of my comfort zone sometimes simply because I like to challenge myself still but mostly I stick to what I’m comfortable executing.

4. THat Hustle culture inside the calligraphy industry is toxic

   I used to believe that the busier I was, the more successful I was. Seriously, if I wasn’t backed up with orders weekend after weekend, I felt like something was missing. The truth is, there are only so many projects that you can execute competently. The more you take on the more you are potentially risking your reputation, especially if you are a one-person operation. Seeking a healthy work/life balance is more desirable for me and I am so much happier at the end of a busy Chicago wedding season if I’ve been intentional about taking time to enjoy simple things.

5. TO Focus on my own personal objectives and not the calligrapher next to ME

   There are multiple categories inside this big tent of calligraphy that you can become known for and it does you no good to constantly compare yourself to others. Showing up, my reputation inside the industry and personal artistic development are what I find most important. While I notice what other calligraphers are doing, I’m not letting what I see distract me from my goals. I’m laser focused on my objectives and refuse to allow myself to be swayed by others. Plus there are enough opportunities for everyone.

Let me know in the comments what you are currently learning from your own business.

—ct