From Teacher to Creative Entrepreneur: My Journey with Calligraphy & Art
If you told me years ago that I’d be engraving perfume bottles at corporate events or teaching calligraphy workshops inside an Anthropologie store, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. But life has a funny way of guiding us exactly where we’re meant to be — even when the path looks nothing like what we expected.
This is the story of how I went from teaching in a first-grade classroom to becoming a full-time creative entrepreneur, artist, and live event calligrapher. And how every step of the way, I’ve found new ways to connect, create, and express myself — with intention.
🍎 The Teacher Chapter
Before I ever picked up a calligraphy pen, I was teaching children how to read and write, manage big feelings, and grow into themselves. I loved the energy of the classroom — the creativity, the structure, the connection. But I also knew deep down that I wanted to live a life where I could explore my own creativity just as fully.
I started learning calligraphy as a hobby — a way to relax and create just for me. But something about the rhythm of the strokes, the beauty in small details, and the meditation of lettering pulled me in deeply.
✨ The Leap Into Creative Work
After just three weeks of practicing calligraphy daily, I decided to start a small business. I had no idea where it would go — I just knew I loved it. Ivelisse Designs was born as a custom signage and stationery brand, mainly for weddings. I was designing menus, welcome signs, and place cards from my tiny desk, figuring things out as I went.
From there, my creative world kept expanding. I painted murals. I illustrated women in line art. I started hosting workshops and teaching others how to reconnect with their creativity — a beautiful full-circle moment for my inner teacher.
đź–‹ Finding My Flow Through Live Calligraphy
Then came the magic of live event calligraphy and engraving — something I didn’t know would become such a deep passion. The first time I was invited to personalize items onsite at a brand event, I knew this was something special.
There’s something so intimate and joyful about engraving a guest’s name right in front of them — seeing their face light up, knowing they’re leaving with a one-of-a-kind keepsake made just for them. It’s art, connection, and presence all at once.
Since then, I’ve had the honor of working with brands like Anthropologie, Uber, Bumble, and Dell, offering calligraphy and creative experiences that make events feel truly memorable.
🌼 What I’ve Learned Along the Way
Creativity has taught me that there’s no “right” path — only the one that feels most aligned. And for me, that path is rooted in intention, beauty, and bringing joy to others through handmade, meaningful moments.
My former teacher self still lives in everything I do — whether it’s guiding a calligraphy class or making sure a guest’s engraved gift feels extra special.
Now, I get to live a life where I’m both the artist and the educator. A life that’s ever-evolving, grounded in community, and inspired by the simple magic of creating.
đź’Ś Want to Work Together?
Whether you're a brand looking for onsite calligraphy, a planner seeking something unique for an event, or someone who just wants to tap back into their creativity — I'd love to connect.
[contact me] to start a conversation.