Meet Gayle Talabay

We were lucky to catch up with Gayle Talabay recently and have shared our conversation below.

Gayle, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

I wouldn’t say I “found” my purpose all at once—it has been revealed step by step. For me, it started with something small: picking up a beginner calligraphy kit on a whim. At the time, I never imagined it would grow into a business or a way to serve others. But the more I practiced, the more I realized that my purpose was less about the pen itself and more about using my gifts to bless people.

Over time, God has shown me that my purpose is to create beauty that encourages others, whether that’s through a custom piece that becomes a family keepsake, or through an on-site event where I can connect with people face-to-face. My art is simply the medium—my true purpose is to glorify Him and serve others in the process. “Letters in Love” is not just the name of my business, it’s also my mission.

I think purpose is often discovered that way: not in a single dramatic moment, but in being faithful with what’s in front of you and allowing it to grow into something bigger.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I discovered calligraphy by chance in 2019 while I had some down time to fill. I had no idea at the time how big and beautiful the world of calligraphy really is! I started with a simple beginner’s kit and a $25 online class, and quickly found myself immersed in endless possibilities—different scripts, inks, styles, history, and most of all, a wonderful community of people who share a love for the art. My turning point came when an acquaintance asked me to write a letter for her to give her husband on their wedding day. That was my first paid project, and I had so much fun with it that I knew I wanted to keep going and create more opportunities to share my work.

Today, I focus on both live on-site events—where I do calligraphy and engraving in real time—and custom projects such as wedding pieces and personal keepsakes. While I’m based in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, I also work with clients in other states, and I am available to travel for special events.

What excites me most is how personal this work is. On-site events give me the chance to connect with people face-to-face, and I love the energy of those moments. But there’s something truly special about custom work. More than once I’ve been moved to tears while finishing a piece, knowing it will become a meaningful keepsake in someone’s home or family. That’s an incredible honor. I think what makes my work unique is the blend of traditional calligraphy foundations with my own style—I bring a consistent thread into each piece, whether it’s through my lettering or the watercolor accents I love to include.

Looking ahead, I’ll be at the State Fair of Texas this year for two days, and I’m preparing for the holiday season, which is always full of joyful projects. From ‘Letters from Santa’ to live calligraphy events to ornaments to handwritten cards, it’s one of my favorite times of the year.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, three things stand out as the most impactful in my journey.

First, a genuine love of learning. When I started calligraphy, I didn’t realize how much there was to explore—different styles, tools, and even the history behind it all. I think my natural curiosity and love of learning made me eager to dig deeper and try new things. That mindset kept me from feeling “stuck” at the beginning and reminded me that every mistake is really just part of the learning process.

Second, organization and discipline. Before I ever picked up a calligraphy pen, I worked in a field that required project management, analysis, and a lot of detail-oriented focus. Those skills transferred beautifully into building a creative business. Whether it’s keeping track of client deadlines, budgeting for supplies, or managing the flow of a live event, that structure gives me the freedom to create without chaos.

And third, courage. I’ve said yes to so many projects before I felt “ready.” My motto is “do it scared,” and it’s carried me through. The first time someone trusted me with a paid project, I was nervous—but I said yes, and it opened the door to so many more opportunities. If I had waited until I felt perfectly confident, I would still be waiting. This is as true now as it was when I started out 5 years ago.

For anyone just starting, I’d encourage you to master the basics and give yourself time to grow without comparison. Use others as inspiration, not as a measuring stick. Surround yourself with a supportive community—those connections will be invaluable. And when opportunities come, say yes, even if your knees are shaking. That’s how you grow!

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I feel overwhelmed, I remind myself that even professional stress is still personal—because we carry it in our minds and hearts. A few things help me when I reach that point.

First, my faith grounds me. I take time to pray and remember that I don’t have to carry everything on my own strength. Trusting that God is in control helps me step back and gain perspective.

Second, I get practical. If a project feels too big, I break it down into smaller chunks and set realistic goals for myself. Sometimes I even step away from my desk, make a list, or give myself a clear stopping point. That way, the work feels manageable instead of endless.

Third, I find renewal in the art itself. Calligraphy is naturally a slower, more mindful practice, and when I lean into that rhythm it helps me breathe and reset. That said, there are times when I need to take a break from calligraphy, especially on bigger projects, so that I can come back with fresh eyes and energy.

And fourth, I turn to the things that personally help me recenter—like taking a walk, lifting weights, using my sauna blanket, or listening to an audiobook. Sometimes those small rhythms of rest and refreshment are exactly what I need to get back on track.

My advice for anyone struggling with overwhelm would be: give yourself grace, turn to God for strength, and take one step at a time. You don’t have to finish everything at once—you just have to keep going.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lettersinloveco.com
• Instagram: @letters.in.love

Image Credits

Gayle Talabay