Fifteen Years Later, Still Creating and Now Coaching

It’s hard to believe, but this November marks 15 years since I officially started Wyndetryst Graphic Design Studio. Fifteen years! When I think back to how it all began, it’s a mix of excitement, disbelief, and deep gratitude for everyone who’s been part of this ride. As I celebrate this milestone, I’m also excited to share something new: I’m taking what I’ve learned building Wyndetryst and offering 1:1 coaching for graphic designers and creative professionals who want to start—or grow—their own studios with confidence. Consider this both a look back and an open invitation to take your own leap. But first, more on how I got here.

The Call that Changed Everything

Back in 2010, I was working full-time as the Design Manager at Arcadia University in their Marketing Department. I loved the work and my colleagues, but I’d always had the dream of one day starting my own studio. Like many creative professionals, I did freelance projects on the side and imagined what it might be like to go all in someday. I just didn’t know when that “someday” would happen.

Then one fall afternoon, I got a call that changed everything.

A longtime freelance client told me they’d received a two-year grant for design work and wanted to bring me on for the contract. It was half my salary at the time. And then, just a few weeks later, a friend and colleague reached out with a big opportunity: she had to turn down a large website project for one of her clients and asked if I could take it on.

I said yes.

A Nudge from the Universe

At that moment, I realized the universe was giving me a nudge. I could keep playing it safe…or I could take the leap. So, on November 1, 2010, I did just that—I left a stable job and started freelancing full-time under the name Wyndetryst.

Those early days were equal parts thrilling and terrifying. I worked from a desk in my bedroom, said yes to just about any project that came my way, and hustled to build relationships with new clients while reconnecting with old colleagues, friends, and family. Slowly but surely, the work started to flow, and Wyndetryst began to take shape.

Eventually, I got tired of talking to my cat more than humans, and made the move to a real office—sharing the space with a close friend and fellow studio owner. We were both navigating the challenges of running creative businesses and helping each other figure it out as we went. Together, we hired our first shared employee (a big step at the time!) and continued growing from there.

None of this Happens Alone

Over the years, our teams expanded, our client list grew, and in 2020—like so many others—we made the move to go fully remote. What started as a single desk in a bedroom has evolved into a nimble, collaborative team working with clients all over the country.

In 15 years, we’ve partnered with more than 120 clients and completed over 4,000 projects—from small nonprofits to major life sciences companies and universities. While we’ve worked with a wide range of organizations, we’ve found a true home in the Life Sciences and Higher Education sectors, where our expertise and problem solving skills really shine.

But none of this happened in a vacuum.

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’ve played a part in this story.

Maybe you’re a current or past client who’s trusted us with your brand (thank you!).

Maybe you’re a friend or colleague who’s shared advice or encouragement when I needed it most.

Or maybe you’re a family member who’s believed in me since day one.

To every single one of you: thank you. Wyndetryst wouldn’t exist without your support, referrals, and belief in what we do.

Let’s Talk About Your Leap

As I celebrate this milestone, I can’t help but think about all the people I’ve met over the years who’ve said, “I’d love to start my own business someday.” If that’s you, consider this your sign! The truth is, it’s never going to feel 100% perfect or fully “the right time.” Sometimes, you just have to take the leap and trust that you’ll figure it out along the way. That’s exactly how Wyndetryst began and now, I’m helping other designers and creative professionals do the same through 1:1 business coaching that focuses on building confidence, and creating systems to run your business efficently and profitably.

Over the past 15 years, I’ve learned a lot about what it takes to build a creative business from the ground up from pricing and proposals, to finding clients, managing projects, and creating balance along the way. And now, I’m excited to share that experience with others through 1:1 design business coaching.

If you’re dreaming about starting your own studio or taking your freelance practice to the next level, let’s talk. I’m offering a complimentary 30-minute coaching session to help you get clear on your next steps and walk away with a personalized action plan to move forward with confidence.

👉 Schedule your session here: https://calendly.com/wyndetryst/30-minute-free-coaching

Here’s to taking leaps, building something meaningful, and helping others do the same.