Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Moji.
Michelle, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My story starts with my super sweet Grandma – she was the most crafty person ever. Her handwriting was amazing and she would make all of my party favors while I was growing up.
I took calligraphy in middle school and high school – nothing fancy, but gave me the basics on cursive handwriting (practice, practice, practice). I was also big on arts, didn’t pursue it as a grown up, but my Mom was fond of it, so she enrolled me in after school art classes as a little girl.
Overall, handwriting and arts has always been a part of me, but I never knew I could make a business out of it. I started sharing some of my work with friends in early September 2017 and had so much feedback that I decided to open an IG account. Eventually, I was getting orders and my following started to grow. I took a calligraphy class with a local Calligrapher to polish my skills – Kristara is amazing and can create magic with her hands.
I’m still learning – the only trick to it is to always practice and evolve. Modern Calligraphy is so flexible and fun – you just have to stay true to your style and let the imagination take over because there is no right or wrong way. I love calligraphy, hand lettering, and crafts – think of something fun, and I will help you create it.
As I continued to read on the subject, research on the basics, and had a good foundation overall, I offered private classes.
People asked for class dates and if I could offer something for larger groups, so I offered my first class to the public on May 12th – it was a wonderful diverse group of people and we had so much fun!
When others say “you just have to start”, that’s exactly what it is. You just have to start – if you love what you do, people will see that and will welcome you into the community. To others, I have to say – don’t wait, give yourself a chance to live your wildest dreams – Moji Calligraphy is truly a blessing!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
A smooth road? I don’t think there is a smooth road to success – but it is your attitude that determines your journey.
I am no super woman, but I always strive to be the best I can be. I have a day job, I’m still finishing up my bachelors at the University of Houston, and I own my own business. It may be small, but it is fierce!
Struggles will come, I will not lie. However, I did mention that if you love what you do, others will see that. This community of small businesses and entrepreneurs is so welcoming, and if you have questions, they will help you find the answer. Be positive, don’t rush, don’t doubt yourself, just start – because there is a place for everyone in this world – and your gift, makes you YOU, and nobody else can offer that!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Moji Calligraphy – what should we know?
There are no limits to imagination – so, if you can think of it, I will help you create it. I love calligraphy, any form of it, and I’ve been lucky to create many different projects with it. From addressing envelopes, to creating baby milestone signs for nurseries, and hand-lettering on graduation caps, I have been able to be part of many wonderful stories.
It fills up my heart to help others create memories with what I can offer. Somehow, my projects are always part of a love story or a best friend’s gift or will record the beginning of a new life – that;s what I love most of my brand.
Moji Calligraphy is me, with my services, you will get piece of my heart. I put all of my efforts no matter how small a job may be, that’s what sets me apart. People ask if they have to have patience to do this kind of work, and to be honest, patience is something I have to work on every day – I am more of a perfectionist at heart.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman just starting her career?
Believe in yourself! If you do, your energy will be contagious. We are all different, so we can all offer different things, and that is a unique gift that no one else has ever seen. Practice, evolve and stay true to who you are. Be open to change, take chances, and don’t be afraid to ask.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mojicalligraphy.com
- Phone: (936) 697-9909
- Email: mojicalligraphy@gmail.com
- Instagram: @mojicalligraphy
- Facebook: @mojicalligraphy
Image Credit:
Andres Godoy, Michelle Moji
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