Tell us about your company…
I am a freelance artist who specializes in hand lettering. I love meeting creative people who want to bring their artistic ideas to life, but may not have the skills to do it themselves. I work on custom projects that range from calligraphy-addressing wedding invitation envelopes to wedding chalkboards to menu boards at coffee shops and I am constantly looking for new ways to be creative. My website has some examples of my recent work: autumnmatney.com
How did you get started in the wedding business?
After being hired privately for several small wedding-related art projects, I realized that the wedding business is one that I am drawn to naturally. The pretty details, the unique style of the couple, the chance to make an event so personalized; all of these things add to what makes such a significant day, your wedding day, so very special. I love that what I do can help bring beauty to a day that will be remembered forever. I have been making signs for several years now, and within the last six months have really began to focus on wedding signs. What can I say, I’m just a romantic! I love weddings so much that I even started a design studio with a partner that specializes in custom designed and hand-lettered wedding stationery, The Letter House (theletterhouseaz.com). I suppose it was meant to be!
What makes your different from other businesses in the field?
I am so proud to be working alongside some of the amazing vendors and businesses that operate out of Phoenix, Arizona. I strive first and foremost to provide my clients with the most exceptional customer service, making sure their signs contribute to their beautiful day. As a freelance artist, I am free to meet with my clients and discuss their vision and make sure they’re getting exactly what they want. I work hard to provide a variety of styles and materials to choose from, so instead of walking into a storefront and seeing only a few options, my clients have the freedom to dream big and get exactly what they want.
Why do you like working with weddings?
My answer is simple: because weddings are the best! They are such a beautiful symbol and proclamation of the vows that two people take, to love each other forever. I want to honor that amazing vow by presenting my clients with exceptional art and lettering that they can cherish and be proud of.
What was the most difficult situation you have faced with a client and how did you resolve it?
Fortunately I haven’t run into too many difficult situations yet, so we will see!
From a vendor’s perspective, what’s the best piece of advice you can give to engaged couples?
Engagement is such a beautiful season of life; enjoy it and make it fun! Your wedding is about the two of you, so make sure to focus on the things that are important: family, friends, memories, and each other. At the end of the day, if you both say “I do”, that’s a successful wedding!
What or who motivates you?
I believe that working hard and being the best artist I can be brings glory to God who gave me my skills and abilities. I am motivated to reflect the creative aspects of our creator by sharpening my skills and treating every client of mine with respect and love.
What do you do when you are not working?
Mostly singing show tunes with my amazing husband (!!) or running around playing soccer with friends. I love being active and growing in friendships through things like running, rock climbing, and hiking.
What would we be surprised to learn about you?
Although my recent artwork consists largely of lettering and a more graphic style, I actually went to college for oil painting! I still break out the oils and canvas every once in a while… there is just something about the buttery texture and luster of oils that I can’t stay away from 🙂
