We were lucky to catch up with Esther George recently and have shared our conversation below.

Esther, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?

Looking back, I can’t help but feel slight regret about not starting my business earlier. While starting small projects in 2017 was a step in the right direction, I can’t help but wonder how much further along I could be if I had taken the plunge sooner. The last year of business has been an eye-opening experience, and I am so grateful for the progress and growth I’ve seen in just one year of taking my little business more seriously. I’ve had the privilege of working with the most talented vendors, building connections with business owners all over the world, and of course serving the sweetest clients. Nonetheless, I appreciate the lessons and experiences that the past 6 years have brought me and I’m determined to make the most of the journey ahead.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My journey into the world of calligraphy started as a hobby that grew into something bigger. It all started as a way to tell stories, express emotions, thoughts, and words through a different art form. I’ve always been captivated by how the smallest of details can create such a significant impact on the larger picture. Now, I have the privilege of adding the most special details to weddings, significant milestones, and celebrations.

Filtered By Grace offers a range of products and services such as live on-site calligraphy and engraving, custom event stationery, and bespoke signage. I believe that every aspect of your wedding or event should be intentional and cohesive, which I why I offer everything from the smallest details such as invitations, menus, and place cards to the largest details like welcome signs, seating charts, or bespoke statement pieces. This allows my clients to eliminate the stress of DIY projects and Pinterest information overload. When they sign on as a full-service FBG client, they not only get access to my professional advice, but they can trust that I will take care of every aspect of their event.

For my brand and corporate clients, I aim to act as an extension of their brand creating a welcoming and engaging environment for their clients. On-site calligraphy and engraving adds a level of exclusivity and authenticity to brand activations, trade shows, or product launches. Additionally, It creates a connection between the audience and the brand as they watch their names or messages come to life using calligraphy or permanent engraving. This personalized touch not only elevates the overall experience but also serves as a tangible reminder of the event and brand.

Every project is different, and I am so grateful that I have the opportunity to work with such amazing clients. I want potential clients and followers to know that when they choose Filtered By Grace, they’re not just getting a service; they’re getting a small business that genuinely cares about their story and their event’s success.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

As I celebrate reaching 1K of organic growth on Instagram, this is a great question to reflect on. When I first started, I DIY’d my own logo, and posted anything I created on a private instagram account. Once I mustered up the courage to go public with my page, I was connecting with local vendors, wedding planners, and even attempting to market on wedding facebook groups.

I’ve come a long way since then. It was a process of discovering what actually resonates with my ideal clients, and I’m still learning everyday. Reaching 1000 followers on Instagram may seem like a small number in comparison to the more established businesses, but to me – it was the outcome of consistently planning and putting effort into my social media presence over the last year. After 6 years of business, I finally have a professional rebrand and a full website, however at least 75% of my leads this year have still come from Instagram alone.

So, for anyone hesitating to start building their social media presence, here’s my advice: begin. Take one step, and the rest will follow. You will adjust and pivot as your business grows. You’ll find out what works and what doesn’t. You’ll learn how to find your authentic voice rather than comparing yourself constantly to those around you. It’s a long journey, but it will be so rewarding in the end.

Published in Today’s Bride:
https://todaysbride.ca/todays-bride-magazine-fall-winter-2023/

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative is the ability to transform imagination into reality. It’s the exhilarating feeling of taking a blank canvas, an idea, or a concept, and turning it into something tangible, meaningful, and beautiful. The process of bringing visions to life through my work is incredibly fulfilling.

Moreover, as an artist, I have the privilege of connecting with people. It’s immensely rewarding to witness the joy and appreciation that my work evokes in my clients and their guests. Being a part of someone’s special moment, whether it’s a wedding, an event, or a corporate celebration, and knowing that I’ve contributed to making it truly unforgettable, is a feeling that’s hard to put into words.

As tough as the entrepreneurial journey can be sometimes, it is always worth it when I receive heartwarming testimonials from clients who appreciate my attention to detail, prompt communication, and ability to bring their vision to life. It’s a constant journey of growth and exploration, and I feel incredibly grateful to have found an outlet that allows me to do what I love while bringing joy to others.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.filteredbygrace.com
• Instagram: @filteredbygrace
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/filteredbygrace
• Other: Published by Wedluxe: https://wedluxe.com/2023/07/21/were-celebrating-the-premiere-of-the-barbie-movie-in-theatres-with-the-ultimate-pretty-in-pink-styled-shoot/ Published by Wedluxe: https://wedluxe.com/2023/06/20/this-bride-planned-her-own-elegant-wedding-in-toronto-canada

Image Credits
Mango Studios @mangostudios Alexandra Christine @alexandrachristinephoto Chris Samuel @photography.ch5am Kate Destiny @KateDestinyPhotography Shotlife Studio @shotlifestudio