We were lucky to catch up with Denise Trio recently and have shared our conversation below.

Denise, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you tell us about an important lesson you learned in school and why that lesson is important to you?

In college, I studied architecture. The studio was where I spent so many hours a week with my fellow students. In all of my design courses, I was given a design brief, specifications, and a deadline to meet. One of my first projects, I thought would take me no time at all, until I began and realized that I did not give myself enough time. I didn’t understand all that was involved. I rushed through and squeaked by the finish line, but I was exhausted at the end of it, and I didn’t do as well as I know that I could have.

As I progressed through my studies, I was determined to not let that happen again. I made sure I fully understood the assignment. Most projects required 30-40 hours of design time in my upperclassmen years. Rather than working 24 hours straight, I planned out my days and weeks leading up the deadline, leaving time to rest in between. Many days, I was alone in the studio until 2-3 days before the crit (the 3 hour critique in front of all of our classmates and professors who would ask questions and analyze our designs). My classmates would pop Adderall and chug Red Bull and pull double all-nighters to start and finish their projects. I knew I couldn’t work that way! I had to project plan, manage my time, and systematically execute for success.

I graduated with high honors, and much of that I credit to my project management.

I’ve taken those lessons from college with me into my business. I ask my clients for exactly what they want (the design brief). I clarify the timeline. I check my schedule before committing. I plan my time so that I’m not rushing and am able to do my best work. And I’m proud of the work I do for my clients!

Denise, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a creative generalist, but I specialize in brush calligraphy. I love to make beautiful and meaningful artwork, such as custom signs, invitations, place cards and pieces for my clients’ special occasions like weddings, showers, picnics, and birthdays.

I started designing in college, but my business really started when my sister got married 10 years ago. I did all of the signage for her wedding and it was a big hit. I loved seeing my work be a part of her special day, and seeing her dreams come to life. I posted what I made for her in my first Etsy shop and squealed with delight when someone other than my family wanted to buy my pieces.

While brush calligraphy is my main hobby, I have a lot of artistic skills, and have made logos, journals, seating charts, t-shirt designs, paintings and posters for clients as well. Basically, I assist creative people who have great ideas but aren’t able to make them a reality! I take the time to know my client, understand their needs and personality, and support them all along the way.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

I read a book a few years back called The Introvert Entrepreneur. When you think of an entrepreneur, you think about a boisterous, confident and outgoing person. They’re able to sell their ideas to anyone and use their charm to make money. The Introvert Entrepreneur rewrote that narrative for me. It affirmed that entrepreneurs don’t have to be extroverts. There is great power behind the depth, empathy and creativity of an introverted person. Being an entrepreneur as an introvert challenges you to be more assertive and confident in your ability. It talked about unconventional ways to market your goods without being obnoxious. It encouraged me to keep going with my small business!

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

It’s always been said, but word of mouth really is the best source of new clients. I have made a few close friends through my business and they have shared my name and my work with their network. I can’t tell you how many times I receive a DM or an email saying, “My friend so-and-so gave me your name!” People trust good reviews from their friends, and I am always grateful when my happy clients tell others about me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.therosecreative.com
• Instagram: @therosecreative