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What does it take to design stationery for celebrities, professional athletes, and Hollywood's biggest events?
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, Frances welcomes Marie Wagar of August and White Designs to share her journey from corporate law to creating custom stationery for high-profile clients.
With nearly two decades in the stationery industry, Marie shares how she built her business, discovered her signature style, and found herself designing for celebrities, athletes, and exclusive Hollywood events.
From protecting client privacy and creating a seamless design experience to participating in celebrity swag bags and award shows, Marie takes us behind the scenes of some incredible opportunities. She also shares why building relationships, trusting your creativity, and having the confidence to say yes can open unexpected doors.
Whether you're dreaming of working with high-profile clients or looking for encouragement to grow your creative business, this conversation is one you won't want to miss!
IN THIS EPISODE, WE TALK ABOUT:00:00 | Meet Marie Wagar of August and White
04:27 | Finding Her Niche in Illustrated Wedding Stationery
07:47 | How the Stationery Industry Has Changed
14:15 | Designing for Celebrities and Protecting Privacy
22:27 | Working with Professional Athletes
23:30 | Building Meaningful Client Relationships
25:33 | Creating a Seamless Client Experience
27:09 | Streamlining the Design and Proofing Process
34:21 | Production Timelines and Mailing Logistics
36:52 | Breaking Into Hollywood Award Shows
42:26 | Behind the Scenes of Celebrity Swag Bags
47:30 | Finding Confidence to Pursue Big Opportunities
52:46 | Encouragement for Creative Entrepreneurs
LINKS AND RESOURCESAugust and White: https://www.augustandwhite.com
August and White Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/augustandwhitedesigns/
Proof to Product: https://www.prooftoproduct.com
The Pretty Paper Podcast: https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
The Pretty Paper Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery: https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
STAY CONNECTEDLoved this episode? Subscribe to The Pretty Paper Podcast and share it with a fellow creative who needs a little encouragement to pursue their next big opportunity!
Where beautiful paper meets meaningful purpose.
What happens when you love your business, but you're just plain tired?
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, Frances is talking about something so many creative business owners experience but don't always share: burnout, exhaustion, and the pressure to keep showing up when you're running on empty.
Between running Ledgewood Fine Stationery, managing a team, raising three kiddos, school activities, homework, sports, and everything else life throws our way, sometimes it all feels like a LOT!
Frances shares a recent moment at her daughter's school book parade that reminded her just how quickly the little things pass us by. Her daughter's face lit up when she saw her, and it was one of those moments that put everything into perspective.
We're talking about the pressure to always be productive, setting boundaries, stepping away from social media, and why taking time off can actually make you a better business owner.
Because you can absolutely love what you do and still need a break from it!
IN THIS EPISODEYour business will always have another email, project, or deadline. But your children won't always be little, and those everyday moments are worth being present for.
Taking a break doesn't mean you're falling behind. Sometimes stepping away is exactly what you need to come back refreshed and ready.
After all, can a car run without gas in the tank?
EPISODE CHAPTERS00:00 | The Importance of Taking a Break
00:29 | Feeling Overwhelmed
01:11 | Balancing Business and Family
02:26 | The Little Moments With Our Children
03:21 | Learning to Be Present
05:16 | Finding Joy in Simple Moments
07:25 | Recognizing Exhaustion
08:44 | Taking Time Off
10:56 | The Cost of Never Stepping Away
12:49 | Why It's Hard to Rest
13:37 | Filling Your Tank
15:05 | Disconnecting From Social Media
16:30 | Setting Realistic Expectations
18:24 | Practical Ways to Take a Break
20:19 | Appreciating the Season You're In
21:36 | Prioritizing Rest
22:49 | Closing Thoughts
The Pretty Paper Podcast
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
The Ledgewood Fine Stationery Collective
https://ledgewoodfinestationery.com/mentorship
Follow @theprettypaperpodcast on Instagram for honest conversations about running a creative business, behind-the-scenes moments, and plenty of pretty paper!
Enjoyed this episode? Follow The Pretty Paper Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen, and share it with a fellow creative entrepreneur who needs a reminder that it's okay to rest.
Your business matters, but so does the life you're building outside of it.
Where beautiful paper meets meaningful purpose.
Episode 08 | Your Business Is Your Own, Let’s Talk Business Advice
Your business is YOURS, and you don't have to run it like everyone else!
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, Frances Ledgewood is talking about something every creative entrepreneur needs to hear: there is no one-size-fits-all approach to building a successful business.
Whether you're a wedding stationer, designer, or creative business owner, it's easy to look at what others are doing and wonder if you should be doing the same.
From pricing and profitability to business systems, team structure, and the endless advice we see on social media, there are so many different ways to run a business. But what works for one business might not make sense for yours, and that's perfectly okay!
We're talking about building a business around your own gifts, passions, and goals, learning how to filter advice, and understanding that success looks different for everyone.
Because your business should work for YOU, not the other way around.
IN THIS EPISODE
THE COLLECTIVE | A NEW CHAPTER
Frances is sharing about the next chapter of The Ledgewood Fine Stationery Collective!
This six-month mentorship experience is designed for wedding stationers ready to strengthen the business behind the pretty paper.
From pricing and processes to systems, client experience, and navigating entrepreneurship, The Collective offers personalized guidance, honest conversations, and meaningful support.
Join the waitlist: https://ledgewoodfinestationery.com/mentorship
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 | Building a Business That's True to You
02:18 | Your Gifts and Passions Shape Your Business
05:11 | Why Profitability Looks Different
07:28 | Social Media Advice: What to Take and Leave
10:12 | Whose Advice Should You Follow?
13:10 | Introducing The Collective Mentorship
14:36 | Personalized Guidance and Success
16:19 | Keep Learning and Trusting Your Path
17:42 | Build Your Business With Intention
LINKS AND RESOURCES
The Pretty Paper Podcast
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
Podcast Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
The Collective Mentorship
https://ledgewoodfinestationery.com/mentorship
STAY CONNECTED
Follow @theprettypaperpodcast on Instagram for creative business encouragement, practical tips, and behind-the-scenes conversations.
If you enjoyed this episode, follow The Pretty Paper Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Leave a five-star review and share this episode with another creative entrepreneur!
Remember, you can admire someone else's business without needing to recreate it. Take the advice that makes sense, leave what doesn't, and build a business that reflects your own gifts and purpose.
Where beautiful paper meets meaningful purpose.
A beautiful creative business deserves an organized space behind the scenes!
In part two of our organization series on The Pretty Paper Podcast, we're stepping away from our computer screens and into the studio!
This week, Frances is sharing the practical systems, favorite tools, and everyday habits that keep Ledgewood Fine Stationery running smoothly.
From overflowing supply drawers and stationery samples to labeled project totes and packing stations, we're talking about creating an organized workspace that supports your creative business.
Because studio organization isn't just about making everything look pretty. It's about creating a space that makes everyday tasks easier, supports your workflow, and gives you more time to do what you love.
In This Episode, We're Talking About:"Organization isn't about perfection, it's about support."
Whether you're working from a dedicated studio, home office, or dining room table, this episode is full of practical ideas to help you create a workspace that works for you.
Grab your coffee, take a look around your creative space, and let's get organized!
Because organized looks good on you!
Episode Chapters00:00 | Why Studio Organization Matters
01:21 | From Digital to Physical Organization
02:09 | Studio Clutter and Creating Systems
03:17 | Giving Everything a Home
04:09 | Organizing Tools and Supplies
06:21 | Project Totes and Labels
08:07 | Managing Samples and Previous Work
10:09 | Creating Dedicated Work Zones
12:07 | Packing and Shipping Essentials
14:47 | Photographing and Documenting Projects
16:14 | Catch-All Boxes and Miscellaneous Supplies
17:25 | Organization Systems for Your Team
18:24 | Building Systems Around Your Workflow
19:24 | Evolving Your Studio as You Grow
20:45 | A Little Encouragement to Get Started
The Pretty Paper Podcast Website:
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
The Pretty Paper Podcast Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery:
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
The conversation doesn't have to end when the episode does!
Join us on Instagram at @theprettypaperpodcast for behind-the-scenes moments, creative business encouragement, practical tips, and plenty of pretty paper.
If you enjoyed this episode, follow The Pretty Paper Podcast, leave a five-star review, and share it with a fellow wedding stationer or creative entrepreneur.
Tell us, what's one area of your studio you're ready to organize?
Until next time, keep creating beautiful things and building a business with intention!
Episode 06: Less Clicking, More Creating | Let's Talk Digital Organization
Are you spending more time searching for files, scrolling through emails, and hunting down saved content than actually creating?
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, Frances Ledgewood, founder and creative director of Ledgewood Fine Stationery, shares practical digital organization tips for wedding stationers, designers, and creative entrepreneurs.
From organizing client projects in Dropbox to managing Gmail labels, photography, and saved Instagram Reels, Frances takes you behind the scenes of the systems that keep her creative business running smoothly.
You'll hear how a spring baseball tournament inspired a digital cleanout, why fewer clicks matter, and how simple organizational habits can save time as your business grows.
IN THIS EPISODE
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Digital Organization
02:00 The Digital Cleanout That Inspired This Episode
04:05 Organizing Your Business Files
06:04 Dropbox and Finder
08:07 Current vs. Past Projects
09:53 Consistent File Naming
11:58 Shared Files and Team Collaboration
14:08 Organizing Photos and Content
16:02 Managing Phone Photos
17:47 Gmail Labels and Email Organization
20:05 Subscriptions and Newsletters
21:59 Saved Reels and TikToks
24:12 Building Systems for Growth
25:53 Digital Tools and Software
28:11 Your Organization Homework
29:57 The Benefits of Organization
32:11 Final Encouragement
YOUR HOMEWORK
Before reorganizing everything, pay attention to how you actually work. What folders do you use most? Where are you wasting time searching? How many clicks does it take to find something you need?
Start there! Organization isn't about perfection. It's about making your everyday work easier.
LINKS AND RESOURCES
The Pretty Paper Podcast
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
Ledgewood Fine Stationery
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
Dropbox | Digital Organization for Creatives
Dropbox is one of the tools we use at Ledgewood Fine Stationery to organize files, manage client projects, and keep our team connected.
Explore Dropbox through my referral link:
https://www.dropbox.com/referrals/AABQm2XXtl2gB7eacRogrCT_zY5pYcWTBVw?src=global9
Disclosure: This is a referral link. I may receive a benefit if you sign up.
STAY CONNECTED
Enjoyed this episode? Follow The Pretty Paper Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen!
Share this episode with a fellow creative entrepreneur, and leave a rating and review to help others discover the show.
Less clicking, more creating. Because your business should leave room for the life you're building.
The Art of Handwriting | Let's Talk Calligraphy with Suzanne Cunningham
From beautifully addressed wedding envelopes to custom monograms, calligraphy is an art form that makes wedding stationery truly personal!
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, Frances Ledgewood welcomes renowned calligrapher Suzanne Cunningham, who brings over 33 years of experience in beautiful handwriting.
Frances and Suzanne share a special connection, dating back to Suzanne addressing the envelopes for Frances' own wedding in 2014!
Together, they discuss wedding calligraphy, envelope addressing etiquette, preparing guest lists, spot calligraphy, custom monograms, and digitizing handwritten artwork for stationery production.
Suzanne also shares how she grew her business through word of mouth, why showing the work you want to attract matters, and advice for aspiring calligraphers and creative entrepreneurs.
Whether you're a wedding stationer, calligrapher, designer, or simply love beautiful lettering, this episode is filled with practical tips and inspiration!
IN THIS EPISODE
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 Meet Suzanne Cunningham
01:00 Suzanne's Calligraphy Journey
05:02 Getting Started in Calligraphy
08:03 Word-of-Mouth Marketing
11:09 Wedding Envelope Addressing
14:11 Etiquette and Guest Lists
16:53 Preparing Guest Lists
20:50 The Art of Spot Calligraphy
23:57 Custom Wedding Monograms
28:09 Sketching and Digitizing Monograms
32:07 From Concept to Finished Artwork
35:09 Advice for Aspiring Calligraphers
39:47 Social Media and Business Growth
42:53 Closing Thoughts
LINKS AND RESOURCES
Learn Calligraphy with Suzanne Cunningham
Explore calligraphy education and resources:
https://learncalligraphy.com
The Pretty Paper Podcast
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
Follow Along on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
STAY CONNECTED
Enjoyed this conversation? Follow The Pretty Paper Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen!
Share this episode with a fellow calligrapher, wedding stationer, designer, or creative entrepreneur who would love to learn more about the art of handwriting.
And don't forget to leave a rating and review! Your support helps more creative business owners discover The Pretty Paper Podcast.
Keep creating beautiful things and building a business with intention!
Keep Your Eyes on Your Own Paper | Let's Talk Comparison
Have you ever scrolled through social media and suddenly felt like everyone else was more successful, more talented, or further along in their business than you?
You're not alone, friend!
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, Frances Ledgewood, founder and creative director of Ledgewood Fine Stationery, gets personal about something nearly every creative entrepreneur experiences: comparison.
From imposter syndrome and self-doubt to the pressures of social media, Frances shares why comparison can steal the joy from the business you've worked so hard to build.
She opens up about navigating insecurities in the wedding industry, the difference between inspiration and comparison, and a meaningful conversation with her son, Wesley, that reminds us how important it is to speak kindly about ourselves.
Most importantly, she reminds us that God created each of us with unique gifts, talents, and a purpose.
Whether you're a wedding stationer, calligrapher, designer, or creative small business owner, this episode is your encouragement to celebrate your own journey instead of measuring it against someone else's.
IN THIS EPISODE
A FEW REMINDERS FROM FRANCES
"You can be incredibly successful and still be insecure."
"You are comparing your entire life and your business to a tiny curated piece of someone else's."
"God does not make trash. And we are not going to talk about ourselves that way."
YOUR ENCOURAGEMENT THIS WEEK
Pay attention to what you're allowing to influence your thoughts. If an account leaves you feeling discouraged instead of inspired, give yourself permission to mute it.
And take a moment to encourage someone else this week. Send a kind message, celebrate another creative's success, or remind a friend of the gifts you see in them.
There's room to celebrate others while still being proud of the work God has called you to do.
LINKS AND RESOURCES
The Pretty Paper Podcast
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
Follow Along on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
STAY CONNECTED
Enjoyed this episode? Follow The Pretty Paper Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen!
Share this conversation with a fellow wedding stationer, designer, calligrapher, or creative entrepreneur who needs a little encouragement today.
And don't forget to leave a rating and review! Your support helps other creative business owners discover The Pretty Paper Podcast.
Keep your eyes on your own paper, friend. Your gifts, your purpose, and your journey are worth celebrating!
The Ideal Day vs. The Real Day | Let's Talk Routines
What does your ideal day look like? Now, what does your REAL day look like?
If you're a creative entrepreneur, business owner, or working mom, chances are those two things look a little different!
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, Frances Ledgewood, founder and creative director of Ledgewood Fine Stationery, shares an honest look at her daily routines as a wife, mom of three, and creative business owner.
From morning devotionals and getting the kids ready to managing emails, scheduling meetings, and handling unexpected challenges, Frances shares how she balances faith, family, and business.
You'll hear practical tips for time management, setting boundaries, creating a weekly rhythm, and building routines that allow room for life's unpredictable moments.
Because a productive day doesn't have to be a perfect day!
IN THIS EPISODE
EPISODE CHAPTERS
00:00 The Reality of Our Daily Lives
02:12 Balancing Self-Care and Business
03:11 Morning Routines with Kids
04:04 Making Time for Devotionals
06:44 Starting the Day with Prayer
07:13 Email Management and Productivity
08:10 Delegating and Business Support
09:05 Setting Boundaries with Email
10:24 Creating a Weekly Rhythm
11:22 Scheduling Meetings and Managing Energy
12:27 When Life Interrupts Your Plans
13:26 Navigating Business Challenges
14:22 Prayer and Releasing Control
15:40 Faith in Life and Business
17:00 Growing Through Challenges
17:53 Your Ideal Day vs. Your Real Day
18:41 Small Habits That Make a Difference
19:09 Giving Yourself Grace
20:12 Share Your Daily Goals
20:41 Closing Thoughts
YOUR ENCOURAGEMENT THIS WEEK
Take a few minutes to think about your ideal day. What would you love to make more time for? What's working in your current routine, and what could use a little attention?
Choose one small habit to focus on this week. Maybe it's starting your morning with prayer, setting boundaries around your inbox, or making more intentional time for your family.
Remember, the goal isn't perfection. It's creating a rhythm that supports the life and business you're building.
LINKS AND RESOURCES
The Pretty Paper Podcast
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
Follow Along on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
STAY CONNECTED
Enjoyed this episode? Follow The Pretty Paper Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen!
Share this episode with a fellow creative entrepreneur or working mom who could use a little encouragement.
And don't forget to leave a rating and review to help others discover The Pretty Paper Podcast!
Keep creating beautiful things, living with intention, and giving yourself grace along the way!
Just because you CAN do something doesn't mean you SHOULD!
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, Frances Ledgewood, founder and creative director of Ledgewood Fine Stationery, shares how niching down transformed her wedding stationery business and helped her attract the clients she truly wanted to serve.
From saying yes to every project to finding clarity in her brand, Frances opens up about the challenges of narrowing her services, defining her ideal client, and learning that being busy isn't always the same as building the right business.
Whether you're a wedding stationer, calligrapher, graphic designer, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is filled with practical advice for growing a business that reflects your passions, strengths, and long-term goals.
You'll learn why saying no to projects that aren't aligned with your vision can actually create more opportunities for the right clients to find you.
Because your dream client has a name, not just a category!
IN THIS EPISODE
A FEW REMINDERS FROM FRANCES
"Just because you can do something doesn't mean you should."
"Every time you say no, you're creating room to say yes."
"Your dream client has a name, not just a category."
YOUR HOMEWORK
Take a few minutes to think about the clients and projects that bring you the most joy.
Who do you love working with? What services do you want to be known for? What type of work would you love to book more of?
Now, get specific about your ideal client. Give them a name, think about their priorities, and consider how your business can serve them.
Remember, narrowing your focus doesn't mean limiting your potential. It means creating clarity around the work you truly want to do.
LINKS AND RESOURCES
The Pretty Paper Podcast
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
Follow Along on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
STAY CONNECTED
Enjoyed this episode? Follow The Pretty Paper Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen!
Share this conversation with a fellow wedding stationer, designer, calligrapher, or creative entrepreneur who could use a little clarity in their business.
And don't forget to leave a rating and review! Your support helps more creative business owners discover The Pretty Paper Podcast.
Stop trying to be everything to everyone. Build a business that attracts the right people and makes room for the work you love!
From handwritten letters and decorated envelopes to building a wedding stationery business, Frances Ledgewood has always believed there's something special about putting pen to paper!
In this episode of The Pretty Paper Podcast, get to know Frances, founder and creative director of Ledgewood Fine Stationery, as she shares her journey from an art-loving little girl to launching her own wedding stationery business in 2015.
With over 20 years of experience in the wedding industry, Frances reflects on the relationships, challenges, and lessons that have shaped her career. She shares why wedding invitations are more than just paper and how meaningful stationery becomes part of a family's story.
Frances also opens up about the realities of creative entrepreneurship, the mistakes she's made, and why being a talented designer and running a successful business require two very different skill sets.
You'll hear why she started The Pretty Paper Podcast and what to expect from future conversations about wedding stationery, business systems, marketing, creativity, and building a business with intention.
Whether you're a wedding stationer, calligrapher, designer, wedding professional, or creative entrepreneur, this podcast is for YOU!
IN THIS EPISODE
A LITTLE ENCOURAGEMENT
You don't have to have everything figured out to start building something meaningful.
Every creative business begins somewhere, and every challenge is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine the way you serve others.
LINKS AND RESOURCES
The Pretty Paper Podcast
https://www.theprettypaperpodcast.com
Follow Along on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/theprettypaperpodcast/
Ledgewood Fine Stationery
https://www.ledgewoodfinestationery.com
STAY CONNECTED
Enjoyed this episode? Follow The Pretty Paper Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen!
Share this conversation with a fellow wedding stationer, calligrapher, designer, or creative entrepreneur.
And don't forget to leave a rating and review! Your support helps other creatives discover The Pretty Paper Podcast.
Here's to creating beautiful things, building meaningful businesses, and living with purpose!
From the publisher's feed
The Pretty Paper Podcast is where beautiful paper meets the business behind it. Hosted by Frances Ledgewood, founder of Ledgewood Fine Stationery, each episode pulls back the curtain on wedding…
Through honest conversations, practical education, and stories from talented creatives and industry professionals, The Pretty Paper Podcast is a place to learn, feel inspired, and grow a business rooted in thoughtful work and meaningful connection.
Whether you’re a stationer, designer, wedding professional, or simply someone who loves the details that make celebrations unforgettable, there’s a seat for you here.