We were lucky to catch up with Elyse Stokes recently and have shared our conversation below.
Elyse, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Gosh, I’d say this one is still such a work in progress. It’s so easy to get on that comparison game until it completely obliterates my confidence. However, I have worked really hard to see my craft (and myself) as one-of-a-kind. There is only one “me” that I get to be, along with all of my quirks, fears, talents, and experiences. I would say that I have learned a lot though by becoming a mom. My son is only a few months old and has completely turned my life upside down and my heart inside out in all the best ways. I have learned to look at myself with more loving eyes and am more quick to be patient and kind toward myself. I’ve learned to be proud of my accomplishments (and mistakes) while continuing to press ahead toward the future I want to create for me and my family. My husband has also been such a massive cheerleader in my world from day one, helping me further recognize that it doesn’t matter what noise exists on social media or in a saturated market, but instead that my unique perspective is exactly what someone out there needs. I’ve been so fortunate to also have served so many incredible clients that feel like I’m the fizz in their mimosa, which have also helped me recognize that me and my work are great!
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m Elyse Stokes, the creative force behind E Stokes Creations, where I specialize in crafting custom wedding invitations and live wedding paintings.
My journey into the world of art began in childhood, with crayons and a sense of creativity that couldn’t be contained. In June 2018, I approached my own wedding day and had a vision of crafting unique, custom wedding stationery that would not only narrate the story of my love but also reflect my personality.
Today, I’m deeply passionate about creating personalized wedding stationery and meaningful keepsakes that will be cherished for a lifetime. I firmly believe in celebrating life’s moments and empowering every engaged couple to indulge themselves. I absolutely love the opportunity to infuse each piece that I create with artistry, ensuring that every detail reflects the unique love story of the couples I serve.
In order to assist my clients with luxury wedding invitations and live wedding paintings, I work tirelessly to understand their vision, story, and turn that into a tangible work of art to be cherished for a lifetime. I consider myself the “professional bestie” to my clients, cheering for them throughout their engagement while also providing invaluable guidance to ensure that each couple benefits from a luxurious, exciting experience with me.
In terms of what’s new, I’m constantly innovating to provide the best possible experience for my clients. I’ve recently expanded my live wedding painting services, allowing couples to capture their special day in a truly unique and artistic way. It’s an exciting addition to my offerings and has been met with tremendous enthusiasm!
Overall, my passion lies in making weddings into timeless works of art, and I’m dedicated to helping couples create an unforgettable start to their lifelong journey together.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey to starting my business, three qualities that I have clung to in order to get by are:
1. Creativity: Having the ability to think creatively and bring unique ideas to life has been essential. Yes, it allowed me to craft distinctive wedding stationery and artwork that resonate with clients, but also to think creatively and dream big about where I wanted my business to grow. To develop creativity, I encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to engage in activities that spark their imagination, whether it’s art, literature, or nature. Inspiration often comes from unexpected places, so keep an open mind and let your creativity flow freely!
2. Tenacity: The determination to persevere and choose to not give up, even when faced with challenges, has been a driving force in my journey. When I was a little girl, my mom would read “The Little Engine That Could” countless times. (If you haven’t read it, or haven’t read it in a while, head to Barnes & Noble and grab a copy!) It’s so crucial to remind yourself that mantra: “I think I can, I think I can, I think I can,” and keep pressing forward— especially if this is the dream you want! Starting a business can be tough, but tenacity will help you overcome obstacles. My advice to those starting their journey is to stay resilient, believe in yourself, and don’t be afraid to seek guidance or pivot when necessary. Keep pushing forward, and you’ll achieve your goals.
3. Self-Love and Care: Recognizing the importance of self-love and self-care has been crucial for maintaining both my personal well-being and the success of my business. It’s essential to know when to take a break, pivot, or seek support from loved ones or professionals. Entrepreneurship can be demanding, but taking care of your mental and emotional health is non-negotiable. Surround yourself with a supportive community, invest in self-care practices, and consider therapy or counseling to help navigate the challenges. Remember that taking care of yourself ultimately benefits your business.
To those early in their journey of starting a business, I offer this advice: Embrace your creativity and use it as a driving force for innovation. Be tenacious in pursuing your dreams, and don’t let setbacks deter you. Remember that self-love and self-care are not signs of weakness but sources of strength. Prioritize your well-being, seek support when needed, and remember that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. Trust in your abilities and the unique path you’re forging.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
My ideal client is someone who shares my deep passion for infusing artistry and creativity into life’s most cherished moments, particularly in the realm of crafting exquisite and personalized wedding stationery. They are discerning individuals with a refined taste for luxury and exclusivity, valuing the significance of bespoke wedding invitations as more than mere paper but rather as a profound reflection of their unique love story. These clients appreciate the seamless blend of artistic mastery and genuine connection that sets my services apart. They possess qualities such as an appreciation for fine craftsmanship, an unwavering attention to detail, a commitment to quality, and a collaborative spirit. They understand that their wedding stationery is an opportunity to celebrate their love in a way that is not only meaningful but also artistically stunning. Essentially, my ideal client is one who seeks the epitome of luxury and personalization, ready to embark on a creative journey to transform their vision into a magnificent reality.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.estokescreations.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/estokescreations
- Facebook: facebook.com/estokescreations
Image Credits
Monica Ebbing (Monica Ann Photography) Gloriana Chan (Glorious Moments) Shauna Veasey (Shauna Veasey Photography)
