Big Magic

Original painting and hand-lettering by me, quote by Elizabeth Gilbert.

Reading her book Big Magic and feeling extra inspired to push myself out of my comfort zone creatively. So I'm playing around with new styles, editing apps, and just letting my creativity flow. 

Be brave, friends. Embrace who God has created you to be, and be confident in that identity!

Cheers to my fellow creatives,

Happiness & Good Reads

Considering September is already halfway done (2016 is FLYING by!), I thought this quote was so applicable. And I wanted to share a great author I've recently discovered. 

I first heard about Gretchen Rubin through a friend who recommended the Happier podcast. I am SO glad she did, because I have since learned so many interesting things about happiness, good habits, relationships, and productivity hacks. Naturally, I caught up on all 80+ episodes quickly and also read her books The Happiness Project and Happier at Home, took the 4 Tendencies quiz for free online (do it!), and have her latest book Better than Before on my nightstand, ready to be read. 

Since I appreciate recommendations from others, I thought I would share her work with you all. Also, I'm all about free stuff, and the podcasts, quiz, and books were all free sources of entertainment for me. I am probably one of the only 20 somethings who still checks out books at the library, but I love being able to read all the books on my list without paying for it.

Thoughts on Gretchen's quote? What books are you loving right now? Comment and let me know!

Much love,

Creative Spotlight: Courtney Paige Photography

So this post is way overdue, but better late than never!

A few months ago, at the Open House event that I was part of, I met some lovely new photographer friends. One of those ladies was Courtney. When she asked if Chris and I would model for a few photog's in Joshua Tree, I was STOKED. We had so much fun (it was my first time in J Tree!), and Courtney is such a kind-hearted, genuine person that I am grateful to have met. We've had a coffee date recently, and she is such a joy to be around. I just had to share her amazing work because the Lord has gifted her with wonderful talents, and I am always encouraged and inspired by other creative, passionate girl bosses and artists!

You can find more of her beautiful photography work here: 

Courtney Paige Photography

Thank you Court for these gorgeous images! I know we will treasure them for years to come.

And if you're looking for a photographer to capture your important life occasions, I highly recommend this amazing lady. She definitely made us feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera, and was a joy to work with. Check her out!

XO,

Custom Etsy Listings & Shop Updates

Hi friends!

Just wanted to update you guys on some things that have been happening this month!

Have you checked out my Etsy shop yet? I have listings for custom orders, so choose a size for your sign, print, or painting, tell me what you'd like it to say, and I will create the perfect piece just for you! If you don't see exactly what you're looking for, message me and we can dream up some beautiful things together. Feel free to ask me any questions you have, as always!

I shipped out a bunch of orders yesterday, so I hope you lovelies like your signs and paintings! I'm so grateful for all of you wonderful clients. If you order from my shop, I would love it if you could leave me a quick review on Etsy!

I know the Instagram stories have mixed reviews, but I think it's so cool to be able to give you guys a behind-the-scenes look at real life behind the carefully arranged and edited photos. If you want to see little bits of my life as an artist and twenty-something grad student, follow me and my Insta-snaps at @amandaleelettering.

And lastly, I will be adding new items to the shop this month, so click the little heart to favorite the shop and keep an eye out! 

Hope you all are enjoying the last bits of summer, or the beginning of a new school year (like me). I'm in my final year of grad school and SO excited that the end is near!! 

"Just when my hallelujah was tired,

You gave me a new song."

- Bethel Music -

XO,

Back to School

Custom canvas painting for a client's classroom

Today I begin my third and final year of grad school, and I am SO EXCITED to be closer to becoming an OT every day. It is my last first day of school ever!!

I was reflecting on how grateful I am for the people in my life, especially those who have supported me every step of the way through my Master's program - my parents, my man, my best friends. I am so blessed beyond measure to be in this career field, surrounded by amazing community, and it's all for God's glory. He has been so good and faithful to me. He is the One who satisfies and sustains me, day after day, and who has given me this full, beautiful life.

Thank you Lord for relationship with You, for all that you are and all that you do.

"This is the day the Lord has made;

I will rejoice and be glad in it."

Psalm 118:24

Embrace today, a fresh start, new month, and the new mercies Christ brings.

Love & blessings,

Captain America Cross Tech2 Pen

Cross Tech2 Marvel Collection Pen

I was so excited when Cross reached out for me to try their new Tech2 Marvel Collection pen, and even more excited when it arrived because my boyfriend is a major Captain America fan. It's both a classy ballpoint pen + stylus on the other end.

The fun part about hand-lettering to me is that I can use basically any writing tool and create calligraphy-style letters using a simple technique. I love that even a basic ballpoint pen can be used to create art in the right hands! And handwritten notes will always have a place in my life, no matter how much technology continues to grow. Everyone needs to have a good pen on hand for those moments!

Thank you Cross for sending me this pen that is a great blend of quality and tech functionality, especially for superhero fans.

Hope you are having a wonderful day! I'm looking forward to showing you guys some recent lettering orders that I have been working on. Wherever you are, whatever you're doing - remember to be present, grateful, and aware of God's presence in it all.

XO,

Lauren + Seth Wedding 2016

This wedding season has been filled with so many amazing couples and wedding projects. Here are a few photos from the custom wedding package I created for Lauren + Seth! They were a joy to work with and I am so glad I got to be part of their special day.

(Thank you to Lauren for sending me these photos from the wedding! All photos by Kaysen Photography)

And here are a few more snapshots of the calligraphy envelopes and table numbers:

I seriously am so blessed by the kindness of clients like Lauren and Seth. Wishing you both a sweet marriage and life together!

With love,