Pretty Prints and Paper
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do:
Jessica: Pretty Prints and Paper
Jessica is a Minneapolis handlettering artist, leadership educator, alcohol ink artist, and bullet journal content creator. She is passionate about working with people to uncover their personal power and potential through connection, creative planning, and calligraphy.
Let us know more about your business name - how did you come up with it?
In 2015 I was reconnecting with my creativity and the activities that brought me joy. I started an Instagram account to document and share my journey. Knowing myself, I didn't want to be too specific so I could explore many mediums and maths, so I landed on Pretty Prints and Paper to be general.
What is your signature style / item? How did it become so?
Truly, my signature is my teaching. I am a highly interactive and empowering teacher with calligraphy, stenciling, bullet journaling, and so much more. Being a dynamic teacher with undergraduate students in my day job, I love being able to connect with the people in the room and unlock whatever their style, preference, or potential is. My focus is using our art or expression as a metaphor for our own personal development. I've been able to teach individual lessons to small groups of women to conference classes of 250, and it's exhilarating each time.
What makes your business unique to the industry?
I think what makes my work and experiences compelling is that it's not always just about the planner, the calligraphy, the paint - but what it means about us. I create an experience that helps us find joy in the mess, the difficulty of experimentation and letting go of perfectionism and impatience. There's a story and experience with it.
What's been your biggest roadblock when it comes to business and how have you been able to overcome?
Photo courtesy: Jessica Chung, Pretty Prints and Paper
I work full time and I am pretty authentic when it comes to my expression and energy for this side business of mine. I don't believe in hustling and forcing myself into a consistent schedule of production, which has its joys and shadows. I wouldn't say it's something I've overcome, but something I try to acknowledge and dance with instead of fight so hard against.
How has your business had to adapt amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic? What are you doing to navigate the situation?
My presence online has stayed pretty similar, although I would say I’ve been more prominent in sharing anti-racism resources and calls to action. One of the sad things is that my classes have been canceled and working on bringing those online in a time where people are “zoomed out.”
What is your favorite part of what you do?
I love when people relax their shoulders in a class, or smile because they realize the ways they've done something is absolutely valid and can be a strength, not something they fight. The light in people's eyes as they get excited and inspire themselves to action.
What is your *must do* local activity?
I LOVE exploring local boba, stationery, or ice cream shops. Ice cream is my favorite summer activity. Right now, Sweet Science at Keg and Case is my favorite treat.
Where to find Pretty Prints and Paper:
Website: www.prettyprintsandpaper.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/prettyprintsandpaper
Facebook: www.facebook.com/prettyprintsandpaper