Meet Kelly Medanich: Graphic Designer & Business Owner

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

Hi Kelly, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
After graduating with my bachelor’s degree in marketing, I had originally planned to go into sales. However with the 2008 market crash, the sales positions I coveted were few and far between. I had the idea to go to law school, but being the cautious person I am, I wanted to first work at a law firm to get a feel of the environment before I invested time and money into law school. And I’m glad I did. I ended up not having as big of an interest in law as I originally thought, so instead I worked my way up to be marketing director for the firm. As marketing director, I was able to start designing print ads and business programs. After that I knew I found what I loved to do. Print ads and business programs weren’t exactly creatively stimulating, so I started creating more enjoyable designs on my own like invitations and logos. Once I designed my first project for my own client, I realized this is was my passion. I wanted to be my own boss with my own clients doing what I love. After a transition as marketing director to another small business and just a few years later, I was able to dedicate full time to Pink Champagne Designs. Working for two small businesses before starting my own company, I was able to have first hand experience working with entrepreneurs and small business owners, and I had a greater appreciation for small businesses in general. I learned a great deal about what to do and what not to do as an entrepreneur, but I knew I wanted to do it. Again, being the cautious entrepreneur I am, I did not use any loans or capital when I first started my business. I grew the business organically and had almost zero overhead when I started. And since it grew slowly and organically, I did not start with a business plan or branding guide as many start ups do. Looking back, I didn’t realize how much hard work and dedication it takes to start, survive, and thrive as a small business. But I love every minute of it!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Pink Champagne Designs is a professional boutique graphic design company, focusing on creating fresh yet timeless designs with a personable, stress-free approach at the highest level of client care. We specialize in wedding invitations and day-of stationery, branding and logos, corporate events, and small business graphic design support. Conveniently based in Dallas/ Fort Worth and Austin, Texas, we are able to ship and deliver to all over the country and have a client base worldwide. With over 10 years of design experience, we’re proud to be featured in numerous magazines, countless blogs and receive top reviews from our clients.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love a good brunch at Breadwinner’s Cafe- a great spot to meet clients as well and pretty central to downtown and uptown. I’ve always loved staying at The Magnolia Hotel for the weekend. A historic hotel with some character to Dallas. Shopping at North Park is a must of course! Hitting up breweries and local shops in Deep Ellum and if the weather is nice, visiting Klyde Warren Park.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First, my parents. My dad never hesitated to jump right in to run to my paper supplier when I needed last minute envelopes or paper for envelope liners. I was working full time so I wasn’t able to leave work for last minute orders or projects. He even help me hand cut envelope liners individually- wow. And my mom really inspired me to create. She is a former calligrapher and has always been creative. She even has her own successful Etsy shop, which inspired me to think about how I could monetize my designs. Second, the book Profit First by Mike Michalowicz. It really changed the way I view my business. It teaches you how to manage your expenses, sales, and therefor creating a profitable and successful company. Cash is king and so many businesses fail due to lack of cash flow. I’ve been using his method for years and doing better than ever, even through 2020.

Website: https://www.pinkchampagnedesigns.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinkchampagnedesigns/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/15228336
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pinkc_designs
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PinkCDesigns/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvRVnVYZa1LW_ht0ot99SaQ

Image Credits
Anastasia Strate Photography Jennifer Yarbro Photography Kate Pease Photography