Paper Talk Sara Kim of Handmade by Sara Kim, Quynh Nguyen of Pink and Posey and Jessie Chui of Crafted to Bloom

We know that the journey of pursuing our artistic passions and building our small businesses is both exhilarating and demanding. In the midst of chasing deadlines, perfecting our art, and managing the daily intricacies of our creative ventures, happiness might sometimes take a backseat. But what if we told you that finding happiness and fulfillment can actually enhance our creative process and elevate our businesses? 

That's why we're excited to share some invaluable insights with you from Episode 137 that touched upon a topic near and dear to our hearts: achieving lasting happiness as creative entrepreneurs. We've dived deep into the conversation with Dr. Ellen Wong, an expert on happiness. Quynh met Ellen at a mastermind conference and was impressed by her insights on happiness, prompting her to invite Ellen to the show. Ellen shares her personal journey of overcoming anxiety and depression and her quest to understand true happiness and its cultural aspects.

Here’s what you’ll learn when you listen:


The significance of redefining success on your own terms and avoiding pursuing goals solely for external validation.
How to cultivate contentment through the "nine pillars of happiness" by nurturing relationships, purpose, and self-awareness.
Insights into navigating major life transitions, like retirement, while maintaining a sense of purpose and communication in relationships.
Questioning the pursuit of traditional markers of success in the entrepreneurial world and aligning business goals with personal desires.
The value of making intentional decisions by reflecting on motivations, identifying limiting beliefs, and ensuring actions align with authentic selves for a happier and purposeful life journey.

Now, we won't give away all the details here—we want to encourage you to listen to the full episode to truly grasp the depth of these insights. But below you’ll find three key takeaways that can reshape how we approach our creative paths and entrepreneurial endeavors. Are you ready to discover the secrets to lasting happiness? Let's dive in!

Redefining Success on Your Own Terms
In the fast-paced world of creative entrepreneurship, it's easy to get caught up in the external markers of success—revenue numbers, social media metrics, and industry recognition. Ellen encourages us to pause and reconsider what success really means. She challenges us to redefine success on our own terms, aligning it with our unique values and passions.

When you listen, you’ll hear an example of a certain paper flower artist who initially measured success solely by the number of orders she received. As her business grew, so did the pressure to meet higher demands. However, she realized that this path was leading her away from the joy of creating intricate paper art, which was her true passion. This realization prompted her to redefine her success by focusing on the quality of her artistry and the personal connections she forged with her clients. This shift not only brought her more fulfillment but also allowed her to create art that resonated deeply with her audience.

You’ll have to listen to the episode to find out who shared that story, but it’s a perfect reminder that success is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It's not just about achieving predefined milestones; it's about creating a journey that aligns with our individual desires and aspirations. This means acknowledging that our version of success might differ from traditional norms, and that's perfectly okay. It's about embracing the freedom to define success in ways that resonate with our creative spirits.

The Power of Prioritizing Authentic Contentment
In the midst of our entrepreneurial hustle, we often find ourselves caught in a cycle of chasing after goals without pausing to ask, "Is this truly making us happy?" The episode introduces us to the notion of contentment—finding genuine satisfaction in our present moments while still pursuing our aspirations. It's a p

Episode 136: Mastering Mass Production and Scaling Your Creative Business

Join us on Paper Talk as we explore the world of mass production, sharing essential tips for creative small business owners and paper artists like you.

As your business grows, you might find yourself in need of help. In this episode you can discover the significance of bulk orders in scaling your craft and boosting your business. From planning and logistics to packaging and shipping, we'll guide you through the process, ensuring quality and efficiency.

What you’ll learn when you listen to Episode 136:


The significance of mass production for creative entrepreneurs and its potential in scaling a business.
Insights into navigating the planning and logistics of mass production, setting clear expectations, and accurate pricing.
Tips on packaging and shipping flowers for safe delivery and client satisfaction.
The art of counting and organizing creations during mass production to maintain consistent quality.
Understanding weatherproofing for secure shipments and the importance of charging shipping and handling costs, plus the benefits of FedEx and UPS accounts for corporate clients.

Join us on this exciting journey of mastering mass production. Tune in to Episode 136 of Paper Talk Podcast, or take a peek below to get a taste of what you’ll learn.

Understanding the Importance of Mass Production

Mass production isn't just about making a large quantity of your exquisite paper creations; it's a strategic approach that can elevate your business to new heights. One of the most significant advantages of mass production is scalability. By streamlining your production process, you can efficiently produce a higher volume of products, allowing you to meet the demands of larger projects and corporate clients.

Imagine the potential when you can confidently say, "Yes, we can handle your grand event decoration" or "We can provide the paper flowers for your corporate convention." Mass production empowers you to take on such opportunities without feeling overwhelmed.

But like any endeavor, mass production comes with its initial challenges and common misconceptions. We have been there, and in the episode we share our insights about navigating this new frontier. From finding the right balance between quality and quantity to managing timelines and customer expectations, we’ve got you covered. 

Navigating the Planning and Logistics of Mass Production

We know that when it comes to mass production, meticulous planning and efficient logistics are the keys to success. In the episode, we dove into expert methods of mentally mapping out timelines and designing due dates, which can be a game-changer for your paper art business.

Some advice from Quynh is to mentally map out the timeline you need and then backdate it to establish a design due date. This proactive approach allows you to set clear expectations with your clients from the start. In the episode, she shares how she communicates this effectively to her clients, ensuring that they understand the importance of timely decision-making to keep the project on track.

Setting clear expectations with clients is crucial in mass production to avoid last-minute decisions and delays that could throw off your entire schedule. On the podcast we discuss the power of communicating early on with clients about the importance of making timely decisions. This not only helps in avoiding project delays but also allows you to confidently plan your resources and team accordingly.

We chatted about much more, including pricing mass production projects, how to package and ship to avoid damage, who to ship with, and whether or not you should send a test model to clients for approval. You’ll want to tune in to the episode so that you can confidently take on larger projects, attract corporate clients, and provide exceptional paper artistry while efficiently meeting deadlines.

Ensuring Quality and Success in Mass Production

When it c

Welcome to the latest episode of Paper Talk Podcast! Today, we're excited to host the talented paper artist and creative entrepreneur, Poy T. Granoti of Summer Space Studio. Poy shared her valuable insights on navigating the ever-changing landscape of social media, the importance of branding for creative businesses, and harnessing the power of Pinterest to drive success.

What You’ll Learn in Episode 135:

Changes in social media algorithms and how they impact artists.
Strategies for maintaining a healthy relationship with social media.
The importance of branding and how it can help creative businesses stand out.
Insights into utilizing Pinterest for reaching target audiences and driving revenue.
Tips for researching keywords and understanding the user journey on Pinterest.
An overview of Idea Pins on Pinterest and recent changes to the feature.
Balancing personal and promotional content on social media and finding a unique voice.
Poy's personal experience with sponsorship opportunities and promoting products.
Sneak peeks into Poy's upcoming projects and her approach to creating holiday-themed paper art

Below you’ll find a sneak peek into our stimulating discussion. While we'll be sharing some helpful tips, we encourage you to listen to the full podcast episode for the complete conversation and to truly immerse yourself in Poy's expertise.

So, without further ado, let's explore the fascinating world of social media, branding, and Pinterest!

Staying Sane in the Ever-Changing Social Media Landscape
In today's digital age, social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have become integral to the success of creative entrepreneurs. However, navigating the ever-changing landscape of these platforms can often feel like a rollercoaster ride. We had the pleasure of discussing these challenges with the talented Poy.

Algorithm changes are one of the major hurdles that creators and artists face on social media. Poy shared her insights on the impact of these changes and how they can affect visibility and engagement. But fear not! Poy also offered valuable tips on how to maintain your sanity amidst these fluctuations.

One of the key takeaways from the episode was the importance of setting boundaries. It's easy to get caught up in the never-ending cycle of posting, commenting, and chasing algorithms. Poy reminded us of the significance of being present and taking breaks to avoid burnout. By creating a healthy balance between work and personal life, we can approach social media with a refreshed mindset and better focus on our creative endeavors.

Listen to the episode to hear more about the importance of adapting to new technologies like AI in marketing and how to stay ahead of the curve.

Branding and the Power of Personality
Branding plays a crucial role in the success of any creative business. On the podcast, we explored how showcasing personality alongside products can create a strong connection with your audience and set you apart in a crowded social media landscape.

When it comes to branding, it's not just about having a logo or a catchy tagline. It's about creating a consistent and authentic brand voice that resonates with your target audience. Poy shared her experiences and emphasized the power of injecting your personality into your brand. By letting your true self shine through, you can forge a deeper connection with your followers and create a loyal community.

During the podcast, Poy's genuine enthusiasm and personal touch stood out. Her presence on social media extends beyond showcasing her paper flowers. This approach has allowed her audience to feel like they knew her, creating a sense of familiarity and trust. By infusing her own unique personality into her brand, Poy effectively differentiated herself from competitors and built a devoted following.

We encourage you to reflect on your own brand voice and consider how you can infuse your personality into your business. What sets you apart? What makes your creat

We are thrilled to introduce our new co-host, Sara Kim of Handmade by Sara Kim. With her expertise in cardstock paper flowers and her passion for building successful small businesses, Sara brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussions on supporting creative entrepreneurs in the world of paper art and paper floristry.

In Episode 134, we invite you to join us in getting to know Sara and learn all about our exciting plans for the upcoming season. You'll also get a sneak peek into the upcoming projects from hosts Quynh Nguyen and Jessie Chui, including the changes in Jessie's role within the podcast.

What You’ll Learn from Episode 134:

What the shift in hosts means for Paper Talk moving forward.
The difference between a coach and a mastermind group.
How to navigate outsourcing parts of your small business.
Important topics we’ll cover in Season 6 and how to suggest ideas.
Where we’re all headed in the near future on our paper flower journeys.

If you're unable to listen to the episode right away, take a peek with these three important lessons that you can glean from Episode 134. These lessons are applicable whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, providing valuable insights to help you thrive in the world of paper artistry. Be sure to listen to the podcast for all of the important details.

Lesson 1: The Power of Internet Friendships and Community Growth
In the vibrant world of paper floristry, connecting with like-minded individuals is essential for growth and inspiration. In Episode 134, we are excited to share our own experiences of forming strong bonds and building our creative community through the power of internet friendships.

We first met and connected on Instagram, where we recognized our shared passion for creativity and running successful businesses. It's incredible to witness the potential of online platforms in bringing together artists, paper florists, and entrepreneurs from all corners of the globe. Through this virtual connection, we found not only friendship but also a source of motivation, support, and collaboration.

We can't emphasize enough the importance of internet friendships in the creative community. It offers a platform for artists from around the world to share their work, exchange ideas, and learn from one another. By connecting with fellow enthusiasts online, we can tap into a vast network of knowledge and experience, breaking through geographical barriers and finding a sense of belonging.

Moreover, the joy of seeing our community grow is immeasurable. As more individuals join this vibrant network, opportunities for collaboration and support multiply. We are thrilled to witness the growth of our community and the countless possibilities it brings. By actively engaging in online communities, paper artists and florists open themselves up to a world of connections.

Lesson 2: Seeking Guidance and Support during Transition
As fellow creative entrepreneurs, we understand the importance of seeking guidance and support during periods of transition. In the episode, we open up about our personal experiences of seeking help, joining mastermind groups, and redefining our business identities.

Transition periods can be challenging and overwhelming, but they also present valuable opportunities for growth. By seeking guidance from mentors, coaches, and successful peers, we have been able to gain clarity and merge our artistic passions with effective business practices. Learning from the experiences of others and implementing new strategies has proven to be invaluable in navigating these transitions with confidence and purpose.

Joining mastermind groups has been a game-changer for us. These supportive communities of like-minded individuals provide a platform for brainstorming, accountability, and learning from each other's successes and challenges. Through mastermind groups, we have gained insights and perspectives that have propelled our businesses forward. The power of collective wi

Title: Episode 133: An Exclusive Interview with German Crepe Paper Manufacturer Werola

Welcome back to Paper Talk Podcast, Season 6! We’re so excited to be back with more of the best in the world of paper flowers and creative small businesses.

In this highly anticipated episode, we dove into the vibrant world of crepe paper with an exclusive interview featuring Bernd Firmbach, the Vice President of the German crepe paper division Werola at Seaman Paper. This was such an incredibly rare opportunity, and you won’t want to miss a moment of our conversation. Join us as we explore the production process, sustainability initiatives, and the future of German crepe paper. This episode is a must-listen for paper florists and enthusiasts seeking to discover new insights to unleash their creative potential.

Here’s a peek at what you’ll hear when you listen.

Why Is Each Sheet of German Crepe So Unique?

Bernd took us behind the scenes at Werola, where the art of transforming jumbo rolls of paper into exquisite crepe paper comes to life. Dyeing, dipping, cutting, and rolling are just a few of the intricate techniques employed by their skilled artisans. Bernd emphasized the importance of quality control and revealed how the manual nature of their production leads to the fascinating variations in color and texture that make each sheet of Werola's crepe paper unique. 

If you’ve used German crepe paper before, you know firsthand how beautiful and unique it can be! You won’t want to miss the details of what goes on behind the scenes to create this favorite paper. 

How Sustainable and Safe Is German Crepe Paper?

At Werola, environmental sustainability is a core value, making German crepe paper a wonderful choice for paper florists who want their art to have a positive impact on the world. In the episode, Bernd discussed Werola’s conscientious efforts to conserve water, recycle dyes, and prioritize the use of recycled paper whenever feasible. Listen to hear how these efforts are part of the reason why German crepe paper has those variations in color discussed above.

Bernd also addressed common concerns regarding the safety of crepe paper. You can get the full rundown by listening, but know that Werola conducts rigorous tests to ensure their crepe paper meets strict safety standards. Their products are free from harmful substances, further exemplifying Werola's commitment to consumer well-being.

Any Exciting Product Developments on the Horizon? 

Bernd shared about exciting collaborations and emphasized the growing demand for certain colors from our paper flower community. With a keen eye for artistic styles and cultural preferences, Werola's team continuously explores new color options. Listeners will be thrilled to learn about the potential for expanded color ranges and even larger folds of crepe paper, allowing for endless possibilities in our creative endeavors. Be sure to listen for details about which colors and products they are planning to add.

Bernd also acknowledged that Werola is keen to improve market accessibility, responding to feedback from the artistic community. Listeners who yearn to find Werola's exceptional crepe paper in local stores will be delighted to learn that the company is actively working to expand sales distribution and forge new connections to better serve artists and crafters worldwide.

What You’ll Learn When You Listen to Episode 133


The intricate production process behind Werola's crepe paper
Werola's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility
The safety of Werola's crepe paper for contact and ingestion
Exciting collaborations and expanding color options
Werola's plans for enhanced market accessibility

We collaborated with Werola to bring two lucky winners a packet of German crepe paper featuring ten beautiful colors. All you have to do is answer our poll questions by August 3 to enter.

To enter into the giveaway, click here to fill out the poll questions.

T

We discuss all of the research and decisions it took for Jessie to create fine art prints of her paper flowers. Learn what it takes to sell digital art.
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Branching out your paper flower business can bring more financial stability and keep you excited creatively. The world of fine art prints can open an entirely new world of possibilities.

In our latest episode of Paper Talk, we chatted about how Jessie has expanded her business from paper flower commissions, to writing a book, and now offering fine art prints. The amount of work that went into digitally creating the art, choosing a printer, and figuring out how to ship to customers is quite staggering. But that’s why we’re sharing what Jessie learned along the way so that you can more easily explore how to offer prints of your work.

 

Here’s what you’ll learn when you listen to our conversation:

► All about Jessie’s new limited edition print collection. 

► How to work with and select printing and shipping companies for fine art.

► What to think about when expanding your product line.

► How Jessie created her digital artwork from photos of her paper flowers.

► Tips for the best frames for Jessie’s art if you purchase prints.

 

If you can’t listen right away, here are some tips that apply to expanding your paper flower business in any direction.

 

Research the Unknowns 
As Jessie shared on the podcast, she did a lot of research for her new venture. Which size should she choose? Which paper? There are a million options and they all make the art look a little different. Which company meets the right quality standards for printing fine art? Do they ship directly to the customer? 

If you’re looking into creating your own prints, this episode is the perfect place to start your own research! Jessie shared so much useful information about these questions. 

We’ve also covered many other topics on this podcast about areas that many paper florists explore. Learn about building a YouTube channel in Episode 112, what it takes to run a brick and mortar shop in Episode 110, or creating digital magazines and writing books in Episode 102. Search our archives for a plethora of topics that can get you started.

Whatever new direction you’re contemplating, start researching now!

 

Learn New Skills
Paper flowers are a fairly new industry. That means you’re probably really good at experimenting and learning new skills as you grow as an artist and business owner. We wear many different hats, and as you expand your horizons, you’ll wear even more. 

 

“That’s where your creativity grows, when you push yourself to those limits, when you challenge yourself with doing something more.” -Jessie Chui
 

Jessie shared in the episode about how she had to learn new things in Photoshop as she created her digital art. It took time. That’s okay! What’s fantastic about this new skill is that Jessie can definitely use that knowledge again. 

This could be an important consideration when deciding which direction to push yourself. Which skills would you need to be successful? Will those skills be useful for other projects? If you’re not sure, it can still be worth it to pursue your idea. If your new knowledge will help you in other areas of your business, that’s even more incentive to put in the time and effort to learn.

 

Share Your Work 
Putting yourself out there can be scary, especially if it’s art you’ve put your heart and soul into. Will anyone buy it? Will anyone even like it? Is it worth the time, energy, and money? 

You should weigh the pros and cons of any decision. You should make sure that you’re not pouring so much into a new venture that it will make it impossible to recover if things fail. 

All that said, go for it! If fear is holding you back, take a leap of faith. Maybe no one buys your work, but you’ve learned something new and put your art out into the world. As Jessie shared, even if no one