Today we’d like to introduce you to Kat Rodriguez.
Hi Kat, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2003, I attended my first scrapbooking workshop in which I became hooked on paper crafting and making greeting cards. As I hosted workshops of my own, I was approached by a family member asking if I could make some invitations for their daughters Quinceañera. Little did I know that marked the beginning of a hobby, I became very passionate about. I found it very therapeutic and even involved my two children, who thoroughly enjoyed “craft time” – when really they were my little Minions in an assembly of invitation making. LOL!! Word of mouth was the way to go back in those days. Then came social media and I was in for the ride of my life. I stayed busy. I had repeat clients and even planned and coordinated a few weddings and Quinceañeras in between. What started as just a hobby became an almost full-time job and Paper Majik was born in 2010.
Today, I have made thousands of invitations from birthdays, baptisms, Quinceañeras and of course, Weddings. Lots and lots of weddings. The wedding and party industry came to a halt due to the pandemic. But that didnt stop me from using the downtime to participate and makeover 50 invitation suites for styled shoots. It was the best thing I could have ever done. I made new connections and, best of all, NEW FRIENDS!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Challenges? Oh yes! Plenty. I was raising two kids, had a full-time job and trying to fulfill all the orders. There were plenty of late nights trying to get the project completed. And when I mean late, I mean working until 2 or 3 in the morning – only to have to wake up at 6 am to get two kids ready for school. I believe that was my biggest challenge. Juggling a career, a family, and my small hobby/business.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in hand made stationery for any event. I provide one on one consultations to design an invitation my prospective clients would like. Because I do all my own printing and assembling, my turn around time is rather quick once my client approves the proof. It is something I have done since day one and continue to provide. I am most proud of myself for not giving up on my passion – loving what I do and sharing what I love, Invitations.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Oh boy! I have so many. I grew up as a migrant. So we traveled all along the East coast picking the produce of the season. As the daughter of a crew leader, I loved traveling from state to state. We didn’t fly. We drove as far north as Pennsylvania and Michigan to as West as Alabama. The road trips were always a blast. I have three younger siblings, so we found ways to keep ourselves entertained for up to 12 hours. Lol! And today, we are just as close, if not closer. 🙂
Pricing:
- Starts at $2.50 depending on details
Contact Info:
- Email: designsbykatandliz@gmail.com
- Instagram: Www.Instagram.com/papermajik.designevents
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Paper-Majik-Designs-Events-183989751678513/
Image Credits
Gonzalez Lugo Photography Distinguished Reflections Photography Gracie Jicha Photography Lolu La’more Photograpghy
