Happy May everyone! This month’s business feature is on Monica Nelson who runs a custom calligraphy business called Pineapple + Paper in Midtown Sacramento. We did a personal branding shoot and Q&A at Monica’s beautiful home where she creates most of her artwork for her clients. It’s everything you can ask for in a home office; an airy ambiance furnished with wood accents and live plants and custom artwork decorating the walls.

What do you love most about your job?

“I have always been a busy body – constantly working on projects around the house and trying new artforms. Pineapple + Paper helps me channel this energy into a business where I get to bring not only my vision but my client’s vision to life! It is SO fun to pull from various inspirations and create something completely custom. Most of my lettering + projects happen at home with Gilmore Girls in the background and my pup Jet on the couch next to me – talk about the perfect way to spend a day! “

“Most of my lettering + projects happen at home with Gilmore Girls in the background and my pup Jet on the couch next to me – talk about the perfect way to spend a day!”

How did you get started? 

“For as long as I can remember, I have loved art and learning how to make things I see myself. I would be in a store and see something I liked and my mom encouraged me to try to make it myself – and that’s just what I did! Whether it be crocheting a scarf, sewing bedding or clothing, making wood furniture, jewelry, dishware, painting, drawing, or my favorite – making home decor! In middle school I started taking orders from my friends for custom paintings {that mostly consisted of Disney and movie quotes}. In High school I created an Etsy store, Drey Avri, focusing on boho + gypsy-inspired wood-burned signs and paintings {lotuses, mandalas, and fun phrases like ‘Namaste in Bed’ and much more!}. It wasn’t until my senior year of college when I interned with Events By Rebecca that I realized I wanted to focus on Custom Signage {Namely for Weddings, and home decor}. Now, here I am 2 years after launching Pineapple + Paper, and loving every second of it!”

“For as long as I can remember, I have loved art and learning how to make things I see myself.”

What are some big projects you’re working on now?

“I have a few things cooking right now. Currently, I am working on bringing more home decor to my portfolio. I have had so much fun creating custom pieces for my home and a few clients homes and I can’t wait to do more! I am also experimenting with Bridal Party Gifts + Giftboxes and personalized gifts for every occasion! These projects allow me to expand past signage and offer more items to be your one-stop calligraphy shop.”

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

“In 5 years I hope to develop my Sacramento network with more local business owners + event planners. Meeting other creatives in Sacramento is so powerful!”

Do you have any recommendation for others that want to get started in business or calligraphy?

“My main recommendation is to jump right into a project or craft you want to try, whether it be a custom sign for your home, baking, blogging, woodworking, ANYTHING! Work through it and see what areas felt the most natural, and what areas you were a challenge. From that point on, it is all about setting intentional time to practice and setting goals that can turn your passion into a business.”

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Make sure to check out all of Monica’s social and show her some love!

Website: www.pineappleandpaper.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/pineappleandpaper

Here is what you’ll find on her beautiful IG!