| working, working, working.... |
| Tips for New Professional Calligraphers |
| Tips for Calligraphers, in general |
| These are in no particular order 1. Always, always, always, call a potential client back. I have received many jobs by being the only return call a client had. This is not particularly how I'd like to get my jobs, but I'll take 'em. 2. Have readily available samples of your work. The delight I hear in the voices of many clients when I give them a website to go to lets me know that the internet is a great place to put your work. A hard copy ready to be faxed is also good to have as well as a portfolio book for in person meetings. These portfolios are a great tool when the client is away from their computer or forgot to bring their faxed samples with them 3. There will always be extra envelopes to address. Always! There is no getting around it so have it set in your mind that until the date of the big event, there will always be more to do. Don't punish the client for this either, it's the nature of working for yourself as a calligrapher. Accept it, deal with it, and all will be peaceful and harmonious. |
| These are in no particular order 1. Seriously consider and then go ahead and buy a timer with an alarm. If you have a cell phone that you can set or a watch, use that. Allow yourself only an hour, maybe two, sitting at your table. When the alarm goes off...GET UP and STRETCH or walk. Staying in the sitting position too long can cause all kinds of serious medical problems later. Prevention is the best medicine. 2. Light boxes will become your most treasured equipment. Professionals already know this. I got mine from an ex-boyfriend and I think it's the best gift I have gotten from any boyfriend. Thanks Mr. DeBruhl. |
| These are in no particular order 1. Always look at several samples of calligraphy from one potential calligrapher. Just because one sample is particularly good, doesn't mean they are good. Calligraphers have off days, just like everyone else. Consistencey is the keyword here 2. If you get enough return calls, compare more than one calligrapher before choosing. Compare personality, work, and honor. You will have a decently long enough relationship with your calligrapher that you want to make sure you'll get along with them and that they will at least do what they say they will. 3. The advent of e-mail and the internet make running around getting things done so much easier, but it is always best to have a sit down with your calligrapher and go through your list of addresses before the calligrapher starts. It helps the calligrapher understand exactly what it is you are looking to achieve, besides just inviting family and friends to your special day. |
| Tips for the Clients of Calligraphers |
| Erma's Calligraphy Tips &Hints |