When I first met Courtney at a CS Brides event a few years ago, she instantly struck me as someone I wanted to know. Warm, fashionable and full of energy, she captivated the attention of everyone that walked by. And when I saw her gorgeous stationery, I was smitten. I kind of have a thing for beautiful paper products. From my handmade Amalfi stationery, to my fine art albums and my lovely letterpress business cards, I just adore the artistry of finely crafted paper. And I could tell from the very first pieces I saw that Courtney has vision. As I got to know her, I discovered a fun and carefree woman who loves life and what she does and has taken on boldly the pursuit of entrepreneurship. Her exquisite taste and ability to style paper products that incorporate the personalities of her clients and nail the themes of particular events is just one of the many things that make her stand out as a brilliant designer. I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with her on a number of different events and styled wedding shoots since our initial connection, and so when she contacted me for some fresh lifestyle head shots, I was thrilled.
At the heart of what I do is telling stories and highlighting the unique beauty and talent of individuals. Over the next months I will be introducing some fabulous young entrepreneurs I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, both inside and outside of the wedding industry. I couldn’t be more proud to feature Courtney Callahan in the launch of my new series of Career Profiles in Chicago!
Tell us a little bit about what you do and what makes you unique in your field.
I am the owner of Courtney Callahan Paper, an invitation and stationery studio based in Chicago. At the heart of Courtney Callahan Paper is the belief that every wedding or event should feel like a one-of-a-kind experience. The invitation is the first glimpse guests receive regarding the event, so I try to imagine them opening up the invitation to see what is in store – a romantic affair, a beach side casual evening or maybe a black-tie soirée. The personal attention I provide each and every client is something that is very important to me and what sets me apart from “big-book” vendors.
How long have you been in business, and how did you get your start in this career path?
I’ve been doing this since October 2009. My degree in advertising gave me the fundamentals to design but my love for paper, the wedding industry and parties is what gave me the drive to start my own company. The day I officially “launched” my business, I received 5 clients and haven’t looked back since.
What do you love most about what you do?
Meeting and working with so many amazing individuals and translating their creative vision into a printed piece. Each client brings their own sense of style and point-of-view which challenges me creatively. And the moment they receive the final product and love it is priceless.
Where do you find inspiration for your work?
My clients provide inspiration for my custom work – every detail of their wedding day from the reception venue to the dress can inspire the invitation suite. I try to pull out the little details that make the couple or individual unique and incorporate these into the design. Plus, it is important to remain “visually aware” of things that strike you from fabrics to clothing and why you are drawn to them.
What is your ideal client like?
Some one that has fun with the process – planning a wedding or big event can be stressful so it is important to remember why you are doing it… to CELEBRATE!
Where do you see yourself in business in 5 years?
My business plan for the next 5 years includes an e-commerce site featuring a ready-made line of invitations and stationery plus hiring some employees. Right now, I handle all aspects of my business from design to billing to production.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned as an entrepreneur and what advice do you have for others embarking on the same journey?
I learn something new every day being a business owner from managing finances to client relations. In the beginning, it may seem that there are more failures then successes and it is probably true. But the most important thing you can do is to believe in yourself, forge ahead and surround yourself with supportive people which I am fortunate to have.
When you wake up in the morning, what makes you spring out of bed to embrace your day?
In my personal life, I value my health. I am young, alive and able to work as hard as I do. In regards to my career, probably my to-do list! Plus, the drive to provide to perfect product to my clients is very important to me. I love what I do!
Outside of your work, what things are you most passionate about in life? What makes you feel alive?
I feel most alive when I am surrounded by my family. They are my best friends and I am lucky to be close with each and every one of them. And when I am not with them, living in and exploring a city that offers the best in food, style and entertainment makes me feel alive!
And a peek of some of her gorgeous work…
Courtney, thank you from the bottom of my heart for your collaboration, inspiration and friendship and for sharing yourself with us today! Stay tuned in the near future for a summer picnic she recently styled. And be sure to go LIKE HER FACEBOOK PAGE and leave her some BIRTHDAY LOVE today!!!!
Welcome to my corner of the world. I’m Jenn. I’m a photographer. I’m a dreamer. I’m a romantic. I love to laugh. I cherish tears. I adore travel. I crave adventure. I live for the present moment. I’m a lover of light, texture and vibrant colors. I’m smitten by art in its many forms. I’m a reverent observer of what it is that goes on in people’s hearts. I’m a visual storyteller. And I am blessed to do what I love.
