In early 2008 I designed an invitation to a friend’s baby shower that I was hosting. A longtime friend of mine saw the invitation and suggested I design custom invitations and announcements for people – new moms, brides, hostesses, etc. There are so many possibilities, she told me. And we know how much women like custom designs! That little conversation got my brain going. I was already working full time as a senior graphic designer for a local marketing company, but I longed to do something on my own, something creative. So Notably Krystal was born. There have been some bumps along the way. And over time, I realized the market for “custom” invitations is pretty competitive, with sites like Tiny Prints and designers on Etsy selling printables dirt-cheap. I created a line of gift items, everything from magnets to t-shirts (blinged out with Swarovsky crystals of course!) and set up my booth at a few junior league markets. Everyone was super complimentary, but nothing really took off. In December of 2009, my employer downsized my position, and I was let go. The freedom I felt after leaving that job was incredible. I thought, what the heck, I can try to freelance. Just weeks later, a former co-worker, Liane Caruso contacted me to see if I would freelance for her new startup company, Limelight Marketing Consultants. Liane’s brilliant networking and excellent public relations skills quickly gained us clients, and we were off! Since that time, I’ve done work primarily for Liane, but have gained other freelance opportunities as well. It’s a fun job – and working from home isn’t too awful either. Notably Krystal now provides graphic services including – but not limited to – invitations, announcements, brochures, logos, business cards, ad campaigns, t-shirts, web, and even vehicle wraps! The possibilities are truly endless.