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

Hi Michele, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have always loved arts and crafts- drawing, coloring, and creating. One of my favorite gifts was always a brand spanking new coloring book and a fresh box of crayons. I would be entertained for hours. As a kid, my family traveled the globe. We lived overseas during my elementary years and as such, I kept in touch with my friends like any girl in the 1990’s would- via pen and paper. I did a happy dance every time I’d get a letter from halfway around the world. I’d immediately start a response- on colorful stationery, of course! I was, and still am, a huge fan girl of Lisa Frank. Her bright and colorful style, cute animals, and coordinating sets were always on wish lists. I had oodles of paper sets- everything from postcards and envelopes, to matching pencils, erasers and washi tape. I’d place stickers around the envelope, write the addressee in big bubble letters, and place it in the mailbox for my friend, anxiously awaiting a reply. Looking back, I guess you could say this is when my love of pretty paper started. I actually started my adult life as a zookeeper, not an artist! I took care of, trained, and educated people about different wildlife. When I left the zoo world to be a stay at home mama, it wasn’t long before I decided to refine my style and sell my work… and in our spare bedroom of an office, a business was born. I strive to inspire people to connect with the world around them, by creating beautiful cards that allow others to be close to each other even when on the other side of the world… or when social distancing!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Anyone can send a text message inviting someone to a party. Or call their friend to wish them happy birthday. In this technological age, it’s so easy to disconnect from loved ones (especially during this crazy year called 2020!). Sending a handwritten note, an heirloom invitation with custom artwork, or even a simple birthday card is almost an unheard of practice these days. But it’s such an easy way to show love, friendship, appreciation, and to overall connect again with friends and family. I create the majority of my designs with paper and paintbrush, then digitize my work for printing. You can certainly buy a 10 pack of thank you cards in the dollar section at the department store, but when you order from me you will have something truly unique and beautiful to share.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I usually take friends and family to The Stockyards here in Fort Worth. It’s always a good time. Of course, the Fort Worth Zoo is an amazing option, especially when kids are visiting. They have excellent exhibits and great educational presentations through out the day.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve had the pleasure of working with several wedding and event specialists- from florists to venues to planners and more. The amount of hours that go into creating the perfect event is incredible. Everyone in the event industry are rock stars.

Website: www.madpaperie.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/madpaperie
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-dietrich-ba2a6917/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/madpaperie

Image Credits
Flamingle- Malia Maureen Photography Moon- Chettera Hunter Photography Pineapple- Whimsically Wed Blog

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