We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Meghan Gallagher. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Meghan below.

Meghan, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

Working in support taught me a valuable lesson I bring to my embroidery business: create a product and experience people love while staying true to my creative vision.

In my previous role at Whereby, we often had customers requesting features that didn’t align with our brand or benefit our target market. Our job in support was to uncover the “why” behind their requests and find the right solution. By diving deeper, I could offer more fitting alternatives—even if that meant recommending another platform.

In my bespoke embroidery work, I apply the same approach. I love collaborating with clients to uncover the story behind their special place, creating a piece that commemorates it in a meaningful, personal way.

Meghan, 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?

My business Bridging Canvas specializes in bespoke architectural and streetscape hand embroidery. My journey into this craft is everything but traditional. With a background in Finance, I never saw myself as creative until I realized creativity extends beyond art—it’s about problem-solving and connection.

My fascination with architecture began during my travels. Living and studying in countries like Thailand and backpacking through Europe, I was captivated by the stories buildings tell. I discovered architectural embroidery after my father, a renowned architect, passed away. This medium became a way to honor his legacy and connect with my passion for capturing meaningful places.

I started posting pictures of final pieces on Instagram and was surprised to see so many of my friends wanted a piece of their own. This is what planted the seed for my own embroidery business, Bridging Canvas.

Today, I create custom pieces that transform clients’ cherished memories—whether a childhood home or favorite travel spot—into detailed, hand-stitched art. My signature black-thread style emphasizes intricate architectural details, turning each piece into a timeless keepsake.

I collaborate closely with individuals and businesses, ensuring every creation tells a personal story. It brings me so much joy when someone comes to me with a place in mind and I can translate that using thread.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I started my business, I thought I had to follow the path most embroidery artists were taking: creating patterns and kits to sell on Etsy. I designed beginner-friendly versions of iconic Chicago buildings, like the Hancock Tower, the Board of Trade, and the Wrigley Building. But in the process of making these designs accessible, I found myself compromising my creativity and losing inspiration.

The project dragged on, deadlines slipped, and I struggled to even enjoy my personal embroidery work. It became clear that I was trying to fit into a mold that didn’t align with my passion. I realized that my true calling was creating one-of-a-kind, bespoke art that tells personal stories.

Pivoting away from patterns and focusing solely on commissions was the best decision I made. It re-ignited my creativity and allowed me to focus on what I truly love: honoring people’s memories through detailed, hand-stitched art. Now, every piece I create is not just embroidery; it’s a meaningful collaboration that brings someone’s cherished place to life.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the moment a client approves the initial sketch I send in a proposal. It’s more than just a nod of approval—it’s a powerful signal that I’ve captured their vision and connected with the story they want to tell. This first sketch is where their memories start to take shape, and seeing their excitement and trust in my interpretation is incredibly fulfilling!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bridgingcanvas.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bridgingcanvas/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-gallagher-2a626284/
• Other: Join Commission Waitlist: https://bridging-canvas.kit.com/dfab4b1ae8
  Portfolio: https://www.bridgingcanvas.com/blog?tag=Commission
  Threads:

Image Credits

Matias Baez, Katie McConnell, Bridging Canvas LLC