Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Roberts

Hi Sarah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?

After a life of creativity, I started my brand in 2015 creating custom invitations, logos, and original watercolor paintings. I have a passion for good, unique design which has served me well in my business. In 2018 I quit my corporate job and became a full-time freelancer. Since then SarahOMaryDesigns (SOD) has evolved through many different phases, landing where I am today. These days, the focus of SOD is event paper design, small business branding, and art specifically created for paper items and textiles. I absolutely love to throw a party, and I love to design around a theme! I’ve recently also realized that I love seeing my art out in the wild, not just for my own clients. Last year I started licensing my art to other stationers and business owners. That road led to an exclusive membership where I release art monthly to a select few of 15 business owners. We are about to begin month 9 of the membership, and it has been the biggest blessing! Lastly, as a small business myself, I really enjoy helping other small business owners find their brand identity. From simple logos to full on branding kits, I help clients create something unique that stands out among a crowd!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

I wouldn’t say smooth, but I also wouldn’t say bumpy. There have, of course, been plenty of learning curves. Finding my footing and trying out new/different offerings to see what works best for my business was a challenge. I made plenty of mistakes, some that felt like the end of my road. Luckily, I have experienced forgiveness from others as well as finding forgiveness for myself as I grow and learn. I do finally feel like I have really found my place in the industry, and I cannot wait to see where that takes me!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

I offer unique party paper designs. No matter what your theme, vibe or vision is, I pride myself in making it happen! From birthday parties, baby showers, to full wedding suites—if it’s paper, I can do it.

What I’d really love to highlight is the newest branch of SOD. I have started licensing my art (via Etsy) to other stationers and business owners. This sparks new creativity and ideas for art and has allowed me to see my art in magazines, on pajamas, large-scale wedding suites, and more! Since that avenue became successful, I started a membership option for my art. COLLECT X SOD is an exclusive membership limited to 15 businesses. I release tons of new art on the first of each month. That art is really refined and can only be licensed through the membership option.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?

Instagram has lead me to a wonderful community of other stationers who have become lifelong friends. It’s been so refreshing for all of us to work together, bounce ideas off each other, and just chat without any kind of competition. The group of ladies I have been working with over the last year or so is truly the reason for my newfound business offerings. Encouraging others in your industry will serve you so much more than viewing others as competition. I also recently took the course, The Art Licensing Blueprint by The Good Type and it has been so helpful as I learn this new side of SOD!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://SOMaryDesigns.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahomarydesigns/
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/OARiginalDesignCo?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

Image Credits

All Photos by Blakeney C. Photography