We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Holly Feldt a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Holly , so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
From the beginning of my career, I grappled with the pervasive shadow of imposter syndrome, a feeling that was there even before I knew there was a name for it. The questions ‘Am I truly an expert?’ and ‘Should clients trust me with such important aspects of their lives?’ often echoed in my mind, casting doubt on my abilities. This was particularly pronounced in areas outside my primary expertise, like marketing for example.
However, when it comes to the core of my profession – creating beautiful wedding suites and serving as a knowledgeable guide for my clients – I have reached a point of genuine confidence. This transformation didn’t happen overnight; it was a gradual realization that my clients’ satisfaction is the ultimate testament to my skills.
What really turned the tide for me was recognizing that the majority of my clientele came through word-of-mouth referrals. This indicated that not only were clients satisfied with my work, but they were also enthusiastic enough to recommend my services to others. In a world where online metrics and algorithms can dominate our perception of success, I’ve learned that these are not the true barometers of my craft’s value. Instead, it’s the tangible, human reactions – the joy on my clients’ faces, the excited late-night messages filled with exclamation points, expressing their love for the work I’ve done – that truly affirm my expertise and skill.
Overcoming imposter syndrome, for me, has been about shifting focus from internal doubts to external affirmations, seeing the real-world impact of my work, and embracing the genuine, heartfelt connections I create with each client. This journey hasn’t just improved my confidence as a designer; it’s enriched my understanding of what true validation looks like in a creative profession
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?
As a wedding stationer, I specialize in crafting custom invitations that uniquely capture the essence of each couple’s special day. My work is not just about designing invitations; it’s about crafting the first chapter of a couple’s wedding story. With a style that blends timeless tradition and a modern touch, my designs reach clients all over the country, and I’m excited about the prospect of going global.
My journey into wedding stationery began with planning my own wedding. It was a revelation – designing every little detail, from invitations to place cards, I discovered my love for merging the beauty of weddings with the art of graphic design.
What really makes my brand stand out is the combination of high-quality craftsmanship and a deeply personal approach to each project. Working closely with clients, I ensure their vision and style are reflected in every design, turning their dreams into beautiful wedding invitations.
In a digital era, where paper can seem like a relic of the past, I find joy in connecting with couples who appreciate the tactile beauty and symbolic significance of a physical wedding invitation. It’s more than just paper; it’s a prelude to one of life’s most cherished moments, setting the tone for the entire day. Moreover, it’s one of the few tangible items, alongside your wedding photography, that lasts beyond the wedding day itself. It becomes a cherished keepsake, a physical reminder of a beautiful beginning that you can hold onto and treasure for years to come.
This year marks an exciting development for my brand. After four years of focusing on fully custom suites, I launched a semi-custom line in January. This collection merges classic elegance with a modern aesthetic, offering a sophisticated yet quicker option for couples. It’s designed for those who want a touch of personalization without the wait of a fully custom creation.
I invite everyone to explore this new semi-custom line on my website and Etsy shop. Whether you’re drawn to the semi-custom options or dreaming of a fully custom creation, I’m here to help craft that perfect first impression for your wedding day.
Discover your suite at hollyfeldtdesignstudio.com or etsy.com/shop/HFDesignStudio and let’s embark on this beautiful journey together
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?
Reflecting on my journey as a wedding stationer, I believe three core areas have been instrumental to my success:
In-Depth Industry Knowledge: Realizing early on that expertise in wedding stationery also meant understanding the broader wedding industry, I immersed myself in learning about different timelines, religious ceremonies, and wedding customs. I actively sought connections with wedding planners to deepen my understanding, ensuring that my stationery not only looked beautiful but also fitted seamlessly into the varied nuances of wedding events.
Hands-On Craftsmanship: Initially, I hesitated to assemble invitations myself, lacking confidence in my practical skills. However, over time, through relentless practice and experimentation, I mastered the art of perfect knot tying, envelope sealing, and other intricate details. Now, not only is this a standard part of my service package, but it has also become one of the most enjoyable aspects of my work. This hands-on approach has added a unique touch to my creations.
Continuous Creative Growth: Maintaining and evolving my design skills has been crucial. It’s a delicate balance between staying current with trends and preserving my unique design aesthetic. I’ve found that keeping my creative edge sharp requires constant learning and an openness to new ideas while staying true to my artistic vision.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace continuous learning and seek wisdom from experts in the field. Trust in their guidance, but also don’t shy away from hands-on experiences. These practices not only refine your skills but also deepen your understanding and appreciation of your craft. Remember, the journey to expertise is never complete; it’s an ongoing process of growth, adaptation, and discovery
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client cherishes the unique beauty and artistry of custom wedding stationery. They are individuals who appreciate a blend of timeless tradition and contemporary design. These clients are looking for a personalized experience, wanting their unique love story and wedding details to be beautifully reflected in their stationery. They value special touches like custom illustrations and monograms, and are open to exploring both bespoke and semi-custom options. Essentially, they are couples who understand the significance of a well-crafted invitation in setting the tone for their special day
Contact Info:
- Website: hollyfeldtdesignstudio.com
- Instagram: @hollyfeldtdesignstudio
- Facebook: /hollyfeldtdesignstudio
Image Credits
danielleambryphotography.com kristenhendricksphoto.com jaimienicolekrause.com tammicamp.com
