Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kestrel Montes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kestrel, appreciate you joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.
Going full-time as an independent business owner was, without a doubt, the scariest thing I’ve ever done. I used to say, “I’d never own a business! I want someone else to worry about where my paycheck comes from.” Well, the universe has a funny way of proving us wrong.
At first, my calligraphy and engraving business was just a side gig—something to bring in a little extra “fun money” for things like a new couch or a weekend getaway without guilt-tripping my budget. I had no grand vision, no long-term plan. But apparently, I had an unexpected knack for SEO and photography, because within a few months, demand surged. What started as a hobby quickly turned into late nights, jam-packed weekends, and a growing bank account—but no time to enjoy it. Something had to give.
One day at my day job, I found myself chatting with a community member who had owned multiple businesses. Hoping for some practical advice, I shared my dilemma. He chuckled and said, “First of all, I’m not sure I’m the best person to give advice—I’ve taken a lot of risks, and they haven’t always panned out. But the one thing I know for sure? You can’t get to second base with one foot on first.”
That line stuck with me. I kept repeating to myself, “I can always get another job if I need to.” Eventually, those words gave me the courage to take the leap.
That was 13 years ago. I’ve never looked back.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am the creative force behind INKMETHIS, a boutique offering calligraphy services and innovative products for calligraphers. I founded LearnCalligraphy.com, an online school providing global access to top calligraphy and art instructors, and Nibtique, a network connecting clients with professional calligraphers and engravers.
While I am recognized for my own artistic skills—including work for brands like Google, Gucci, Dior, and Tiffany & Co.—I am perhaps best known for developing tools and resources that support the calligraphy community. My success as a professional artist, combined with a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, gives me a unique ability to create high-quality educational opportunities and foster professional connections.
As a dedicated educator and leader, I serve as both an instructor and Board Member for IAMPETH (International Association of Master Penmen, Engrossers, and Teachers of Handwriting) and am a Calligraphy Masters Crew Member. Passionate about elevating the art of calligraphy, I deeply value the relationships I have built within this incredible community.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
When I started sharing my work on social media, I didn’t set out with a marketing strategy or even understand how to create one. Instead, I leaned into what came naturally to me: teaching. Drawing from my background in education, I approached my content the same way I would instruction—breaking things down, making concepts approachable, and sharing information openly.
As an artist, I didn’t just post finished pieces. I shared the supplies I used, the techniques I had discovered, the shortcuts that made a difference, and the step-by-step process behind my work. People appreciated the transparency, and over time, I became known as someone who was not only passionate about calligraphy but also generous in sharing knowledge. More than just watching my journey, my followers could benefit from it.
One key factor in my approach was keeping posts bite-sized and digestible. Rather than overwhelming people with too much information at once, I focused on small, actionable insights—things they could try immediately or at least see as attainable with practice. This created a sense of encouragement and accessibility, which in turn built trust and engagement. (Not to mention that it makes creating content easier too!)
For those just starting out, my biggest advice is simple: offer value. Whether that’s through education, inspiration, entertainment, or behind-the-scenes glimpses, think about what your audience will gain from following you. Be authentic, be consistent, and most importantly, be generous in sharing what you know. Social media isn’t really about showcasing your work—it’s about building relationships.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
If there’s one thing I’ve learned as a business owner, it’s that success isn’t about a single big pivot—it’s about constant, intentional adjustment. I don’t have a dramatic turning point or a neatly packaged “aha” moment. Instead, I’ve built my business by following what I call the “spaghetti trail”—letting opportunities unfold naturally rather than forcing a rigid plan.
Looking back five years, my business looks nothing like it does today—and five years before that, it looked completely different, too. A decade ago, I never could have predicted where I’d be now, and if you’d asked me five years ago what my business would look like today, I wouldn’t have even been close. At this point, I’ve stopped trying to predict the future.
That’s not to say I don’t have guiding principles. I firmly believe in setting strong foundational values, but I’ve let go of the idea of a strict five-year plan. If I had stuck to one, I probably would have led my business in the wrong direction—one based on assumptions rather than real opportunities. Instead, I’ve learned to let my customers be the guides, staying open to change and embracing evolution as the only true constant.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://inkmethis.com
- Instagram: inkmethis
- Other: https://learncalligraphy.com
