Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Emily Wigglesworth. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Emily, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the things we most admire about small businesses is their ability to diverge from the corporate/industry standard. Is there something that you or your brand do that differs from the industry standard? We’d love to hear about it as well as any stories you might have that illustrate how or why this difference matters.

A lot of graphic design is done completely digitally these days and it often comes along with clean vector illustration. It looks nice but it all starts to look the same after a while. As a designer and illustrator that caters to small businesses, I have developed a skill set that can help give more of a personal touch. Chalk boards, hand made signs, and custom illustrations are not as common anymore, but they still have a place.

Emily, 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 received my BFA in Graphic Design from Bowling Green State University. During my studies I placed a strong emphasis on developing my illustration and typography skills. After college, I learned how to draw on chalkboards and create handmade signage while working as an artist for Giant Eagle Market District. I provide a wide range of services including digital and physical illustration, chalkboard and window writing, and traditional design services. Focusing on custom typography and hand drawn chalkboards is what sets me apart most. I am most proud of my chalkboard and mural art; I am able to provide unique art for my clients.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I had to make a pivot in my design career when I moved to North Carolina, it was difficult for me to find a design related job that doesn’t involve coding, I am not a coder. I am an illustrator, typographer, and brand designer. I decided to use my skills from my previous job to create new opportunities for myself rather than trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. I am now currently trying to build a client base here in the Raleigh-Durham area.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

I put aside and save money from my full-time job at the moment for supplies. My design and illustration services are currently only a side business that I pursue outside of work, so at the moment, funding comes out from my own pocket.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.emilywigglesworth.com
• Instagram: @emily_wigglesworth
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-wigglesworth-448baa22a/

Image Credits
Images are all credited to me.