33. Lessons We Wish We Knew About Managing Clients as Creative Business Owners
Navigating client relationships is one of the most important — and often most challenging — parts of running a creative business. Whether you’re a calligrapher, stationer, live event artist, or another service-based creative, you’ve likely faced situations that tested your boundaries, communication skills, or patience.In this episode of Calligraphy Biz Corner, we share how we set boundaries, manage expectations, and handle tricky client situations while still delivering a premium experience. We’ll cover:Using contracts to protect both sidesDefining your scope to stop scope creepSetting communication boundaries clients respectHandling challenges with professionalismSpotting red flags earlyKnowing when to walk awayManaging unhappy clients with integrityYou’ll hear stories from our own businesses and the lessons they taught us about safeguarding time, energy, and creative vision.If you’ve ever felt drained by a project, second-guessed your boundaries, or wondered how to respond when a client pushes back, this episode will give you the strategies and mindset shifts to manage client relationships with confidence.🔗 Links to resources mentioned in this episode:Listen to Episode 18 about contracts with Paige Hulse & get 10% off your Creative Law Shop purchase with code BIZCORNERRead Shaochen's blog on live event pricingTry Calendly for call scheduling!Give Open Phone a try for free!Enroll in Shaochen's best-selling business course for calligraphers, Pro Wedding CalligrapherSign up for Shaochen's signage course, Seating Chart SuccessText us a question to answer on a future episode!🎉 Ready to unlock your client experience superpower? Take Alane’s FREE Client Experience Archetype Quiz and discover the style that makes your service unforgettable—and wildly marketable. It’s fast, fun, and freakishly accurate 🤩 TAKE THE QUIZ HERE and meet the version of you your business has been waiting for!Support the show👩💻 Learn From Us: Start Your Profitable Calligraphy Business - Join Shaochen's Free Masterclass Ready to find your business superpower? Take Alane's Client Experience Archetype Quiz to discover your signature style for serving clients — and how to make more money doing it 💸 → Start the Quiz! Download our free tech guide for the programs you need to run your business 👯♀️ Follow Us: Follow Calligraphy Biz Corner on Instagram Follow Alane on Instagram Follow Shaochen on Instagram Visit our website
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32. Creating Video Content that Connects and Converts: Reels, YouTube, and Showing Up with Confidence (with Shine With Natasha)
Ever freeze up when you think about recording a Reel? Or feel like you “should” be on video but don’t even know where to start? You are so not alone — and this episode is here to help.We brought on the incredible Natasha from Shine with Natasha, a video marketing strategist who makes content creation feel approachable, sustainable, and actually effective for creative entrepreneurs. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned calligrapher looking to level up your visibility, this one’s packed with strategy, mindset shifts, and simple systems to get you out of your head and into action.If you’ve been thinking about starting a YouTube channel, creating better Reels, or finally showing your face on camera without the imposter spiral, don't miss our episode with Natasha!🎧 Tune in to hear:Why video matters more than ever for calligraphers, stationers, and creativesThe mindset shift that’ll help you actually show up on camera (even if you’re terrified)How to get “reps” in with short-form video and build a sustainable content habitWhat’s working right now on Instagram Reels and TikTok (and what to skip)Why a signature video series might be your secret weaponHow to plan, film, and actually finish your content without getting overwhelmedThe truth about going viral vs. going consistentWhy YouTube is a massive untapped opportunity for creatives (yes, even you!)Plus, Natasha shares her favorite tools, gear recs, and permission to start messy. You’ll walk away ready to take that next step — whether it’s filming your first story or launching your YouTube channel.🔗 Links to resources mentioned in this episode:Follow Natasha on InstagramNatasha’s YouTube ChannelSign up for Natasha's DIY Video Series WorkshopNatasha's YouTube videos mentioned:ThText us a question to answer on a future episode!🎉 Ready to unlock your client experience superpower? Take Alane’s FREE Client Experience Archetype Quiz and discover the style that makes your service unforgettable—and wildly marketable. It’s fast, fun, and freakishly accurate 🤩 TAKE THE QUIZ HERE and meet the version of you your business has been waiting for!Support the show👩💻 Learn From Us: Start Your Profitable Calligraphy Business - Join Shaochen's Free Masterclass Ready to find your business superpower? Take Alane's Client Experience Archetype Quiz to discover your signature style for serving clients — and how to make more money doing it 💸 → Start the Quiz! Download our free tech guide for the programs you need to run your business 👯♀️ Follow Us: Follow Calligraphy Biz Corner on Instagram Follow Alane on Instagram Follow Shaochen on Instagram Visit our website
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31. How This Creative Mom Built a Thriving Calligraphy Business with Relationship Marketing with Jen Bowen of She Made It Like That
What does it really look like to grow a thriving creative business while raising a family, managing a full client roster, and staying true to yourself?In this episode, we’re joined by Jen Bowen of She Made It Like That—calligrapher, engraver, and live event artist. Since starting her calligraphy business in 2020, Jen has gone from taking on her first wedding project to becoming a sought-after artist known for her genuine client relationships, polished brand, and community-first approach.Whether you're a new calligrapher wondering how to get clients or a seasoned creative balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, Jen shares real-life insights on building a calligraphy business that’s both profitable and sustainable.We’re diving into:How Jen used relationship marketing to book her first clients and grow her brandThe power of networking, vendor connections, and in-person events for live artistsInvesting in yourself vs. DIYing your businessHow to balance motherhood and entrepreneurship without burning outEncouragement for creative business owners at every stage of the journey 🔗 Links to resources mentioned in this episode:Connect with Jen on Instagram, LinkedIn, or her websiteEducational investments that Jen recommends include:Pro Wedding Calligrapher Course - start learning with the Free MasterclassThe Craft AcademyLuxury Lettering 101Sam Jacobson's Sway Mastermind Listen to other Calligraphy Biz Corner episodes mentioned:Text us a question to answer on a future episode!🎉 Ready to unlock your client experience superpower? Take Alane’s FREE Client Experience Archetype Quiz and discover the style that makes your service unforgettable—and wildly marketable. It’s fast, fun, and freakishly accurate 🤩 TAKE THE QUIZ HERE and meet the version of you your business has been waiting for!Support the show👩💻 Learn From Us: Start Your Profitable Calligraphy Business - Join Shaochen's Free Masterclass Ready to find your business superpower? Take Alane's Client Experience Archetype Quiz to discover your signature style for serving clients — and how to make more money doing it 💸 → Start the Quiz! Download our free tech guide for the programs you need to run your business 👯♀️ Follow Us: Follow Calligraphy Biz Corner on Instagram Follow Alane on Instagram Follow Shaochen on Instagram Visit our website
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30. Pricing Common Scenarios for Calligraphers & Stationers: A Live Coaching Call
Let’s talk pricing. If you’ve ever stared at an inquiry thinking, “What the heck do I charge for this?”, you’re not alone. We were invited to share our expertise for a live coaching call hosted by Elisabeth Stuckey, stationery designer and creative business coach, for the students of her course, Dream to Design.From how to factor your experience into your rates to whether you should be charging for design time (spoiler alert: YES), we’re spilling the ink on all things pricing—especially for calligraphers and stationers. And because this conversation was so juicy, Elisabeth graciously let us share this exclusive replay right here on the pod!We’re walking you through the nitty gritty: how to set your hourly rate, when to raise your prices, and why you’re doing yourself (and your clients!) a disservice if you’re copying someone else’s pricing. This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about confidence, sustainability, and building a business that supports the life you want.What you’ll learn in this episode:Key factors to consider when pricing calligraphy services (it’s more than just materials!)When it’s time to start charging for your work—even if you’re newHow to price spot calligraphy for stationery projects with confidenceWhat to keep in mind when quoting large custom or wedding projectsCreative, scalable ways to grow your calligraphy business without burning outHow your calligraphy style influences your pricingReal talk on what to charge for envelope addressing (and why undercharging hurts you)Pricing tools, templates, and mindset shifts that actually work for creative entrepreneursIf you’ve ever Googled “how to price calligraphy work” or “how to raise rates without scaring off clients,” this episode is your go-to guide. Grab your favorite pen, a fresh notebook, and let’s get you pricing with confidence and clarity!🔗 Links to resources mentioned in this episode:Download our free Tech Programs GuidePurchase thText us a question to answer on a future episode!🎉 Ready to unlock your client experience superpower? Take Alane’s FREE Client Experience Archetype Quiz and discover the style that makes your service unforgettable—and wildly marketable. It’s fast, fun, and freakishly accurate 🤩 TAKE THE QUIZ HERE and meet the version of you your business has been waiting for!Support the show👩💻 Learn From Us: Start Your Profitable Calligraphy Business - Join Shaochen's Free Masterclass Ready to find your business superpower? Take Alane's Client Experience Archetype Quiz to discover your signature style for serving clients — and how to make more money doing it 💸 → Start the Quiz! Download our free tech guide for the programs you need to run your business 👯♀️ Follow Us: Follow Calligraphy Biz Corner on Instagram Follow Alane on Instagram Follow Shaochen on Instagram Visit our website
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29. How to Use Financial Data to Grow Your Creative Business with Samantha Eck of Firestorm Finance
You probably didn’t become a calligrapher because you love spreadsheets. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your numbers, this episode is about to change the game! We're joined by Samantha Eck of Firestorm Finance, a bookkeeper for creatives who helps transform financial chaos into clarity and strategy.In this value-packed conversation, Samantha breaks down how to actually understand your numbers, track key financial metrics, and make smarter decisions for your business. Whether you're wondering what numbers to track, how to prepare for slow seasons, or how to start financial planning as a creative entrepreneur, Samantha’s insights will leave you feeling empowered (and maybe even excited) to look at your books!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Financial Tips for Calligraphy Business Owners: How to shift your mindset around money and feel empowered by your numbers.Key Metrics to Track: The top financial data points that matter most for your business, and how they guide smarter decisions.How to Plan for Slow Seasons in Your Calligraphy Business: Analyze seasonal trends and build a financial buffer to protect your income.How to Start Tracking Your Business Finances: Simple, non-intimidating ways to get started—even if you’re brand new to bookkeeping.Using Business Data to Grow Your Calligraphy Business: How your past performance can help you build a more profitable future.Creative Business Growth Strategies: Stay proactive with your finances and make strategic decisions as your business evolves.Budgeting Without Burnout: Use tools and simple spreadsheets to plan intentionally, not restrictively. If you’ve ever Googled “how to grow a creative business” or “how to manage seasonal income dips,” this episode is exactly what you need! Grab a notebook, and let’s talk creative business growth and financial clarity!🔗 Links to resources mentioned in this episode:Tune in to Samantha's Podcast, Creative Mind, Smart MoneyConnect with Samantha on Text us a question to answer on a future episode!🎉 Ready to unlock your client experience superpower? Take Alane’s FREE Client Experience Archetype Quiz and discover the style that makes your service unforgettable—and wildly marketable. It’s fast, fun, and freakishly accurate 🤩 TAKE THE QUIZ HERE and meet the version of you your business has been waiting for!Support the show👩💻 Learn From Us: Start Your Profitable Calligraphy Business - Join Shaochen's Free Masterclass Ready to find your business superpower? Take Alane's Client Experience Archetype Quiz to discover your signature style for serving clients — and how to make more money doing it 💸 → Start the Quiz! Download our free tech guide for the programs you need to run your business 👯♀️ Follow Us: Follow Calligraphy Biz Corner on Instagram Follow Alane on Instagram Follow Shaochen on Instagram Visit our website
Have you been itching to turn your creative passion into a business? You're in the right place! We're Shaochen and Alane, calligraphy biz besties who built our dream businesses from scratch, and we're spilling the ink on how you can too! Join us on Calligraphy Biz Corner for biweekly biz chats, where we guide you through the maze of running a creative business, complete with real-life strategy and mindset magic. As two full time wedding calligraphers and business educators, we have over a decade of business experience working with hundreds of wedding, luxury and corporate clients, and we've mentored hundreds of calligraphers just like you. Together, let's uncover the business that supports the life YOU want and leave the overwhelm and imposter syndrome behind. Get ready to hear our successes, stumbles, and insider insights -- we're here to give it to you straight and make your solopreneur journey less lonely by being in your corner! So come join the inner circle of two business-savvy calligraphers who've been there, inked that ✍️
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