Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashleigh Duhon.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Growing up I would have never thought I would be working in the wedding industry. I certainly never believed I could own my own business; but here I am and I truly couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
The birth of Memory Lane Paperie happened out of the blue when I was pregnant with my son shopping for baby shower invitations. This is when I stumbled onto Etsy, and believe it or not, before being pregnant I had never heard of Etsy. So, when I found this website it was like stepping into a new world that I knew nothing about.
Literally out of nowhere, while working a desk job that was draining the life out of me, I kept randomly thinking about everything I saw on Etsy and decided to open my own shop. I never knew I wanted to be a part of the creative industry because it’s just never something you talk about growing up. Growing up everyone tries to convince you to become a nurse, teacher, or literally anything with a 9-5. So, to think that I literally play with paper and ink all day is pretty amazing.
I started designing bridal shower and baby shower invitations in the first year to get my feet wet. Once I outgrew that I jumped in feet first into the wedding industry designing wedding paper and calligraphy. Everything I know now about calligraphy, wedding paper and the wedding industry in general, I taught myself through tons of research, practice, and YouTube.
Please tell us about your art.
I’m a wedding paper designer and calligrapher. I design invitations for weddings and corporate events. The aesthetic for Memory Lane Paperie is pretty much the exact same aesthetic of myself. Modern, feminine and minimal. In this industry it is important to try to stay as true to yourself as possible. Trying to create works of art you think other people want to see instead of what you’re truly excited about is the fastest way to lose yourself.
My favorite part of the design process is for sure connecting with brides all across the country. There’s something special about getting to know other couples love stories and connecting with them to bring their vision to life. Other than our semi-custom line, each piece we create is truly unique to the client.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
Keep your eye on the prize and invest in yourself. I can’t count how many times I’ve wanted to give up, clean out my office and go back to a 9-5. The stress of not making as much money as you would like (or any money at all) with have you re-thinking if you really on the right path. Tunnel vision is important!
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
www. memorylanepaperie.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/memorylanepaperie/
Contact Info:
- Website: www.memorylanepaperie.com
- Phone: 2818409669
- Email: ashleigh@memorylanepaperie.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/memorylanepaperie
Image Credit:
Memory Lane Paperie
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