We had the good fortune of connecting with Katie Morone and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katie, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
I have two, kindness & connection. Coincidentally both of these are through lines for Line & Kind Paper Co. (and in the name!) Kindness is thoughtful, heartfelt, and true; being ‘nice’ isn’t the same. Acts of kindness come from a person’s true self, their values & personality, whereas acts of niceness are commonplace, they happen every day as a part of how we move through the world. Connection is the second. Being able to have a moment with someone else, whether that’s through art, conversation, a nonverbal interaction, or whatever it may be, being able to connect with someone else is so important. Equally important in those connections is being exposed to different opinions, looking at the other side, and learning something new. Exposing yourself to those things expands your world view and can impact the smallest things in our daily life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My story begins with ballet & graphic design. I was simultaneously a professional ballet dancer with a regional company in San Diego, CA & a freelance graphic designer for about 10 years. In both professions, I was bringing other people’s visions to life – through dance and through design. I needed a personal creative outlet, so I started illustrating various themes in my free time. Somehow those illustrations turned into greeting cards. People seemed to love them, and I loved the sense of connection greeting cards brought; sharing sentiments through a physical, chosen design and bringing people together in the process. With the nudge of a mentor, I took the leap into small business officially in 2019 and since have grown a line of over 150+ greeting cards, 30+ stickers, art prints, tote bags, and most recently t-shirts. No small business journey is smooth, but I am lucky that through various mentors, a strong small-business community to turn to, and experience working for other small businesses I have a strong foundation. As a 1-woman business and still working full-time, time is the biggest struggle but with some sacrifices we make it work!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m still relatively new to Dallas but I’ve definitely come to love parts of the city. The week would include trips to the arboretum, the Kennedy museum, the restaurants & shops of Lower Greenville and, my favorite, Bishop Arts. We’d venture through the Design District for the best antique & fabric shops. All the while making stops at all the best coffee shops throughout town.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
No small business is possible without a community to help you so a big shoutout to the Proof to Product community and a select group of friends & family (you know who you are!). Without all of those people, this business wouldn’t be here – thank you!

Website: https://www.lineandkind.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lineandkind/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/lineandkind/posts/?ref=page_internal

Other: https://www.pinterest.com/lineandkind/boards/

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