Baby Steps Do Add Up

Posted on January 11, 2022 by MichelleChiang.design

Halfway through the semester in my typography class, the professor started a voluntary challenge for posting a typography art each day. There were no points or credits attached. To me, there was no risk. I pushed myself to publish one work a day. I soon found joy in practicing different techniques. I also learned more about my style and behavior. In the end, I did the challenge for a full seven weeks, up till the final week.

These daily art pieces were like short musical etudes. They don’t seem much, but deliver quick results. Over time, the effort adds up.

Happy Holidays!

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Design Horror Stories: Poor Finance Management

Posted on November 16, 2021 by MichelleChiang.design

A designer I had known for many years contracted with me for drafting for a few projects. I believed her when she wasn’t able to pay a couple of invoices and continued providing my services. One day we had a falling out and terminated our working relationship. At the end, there were 5 unpaid invoices added up to over US$3,000. I have been sending her reminders regularly for many years and not receiving any money.

I do not understand why a reputable seasoned designer cannot prioritize taking care of team members. I guess it was my fault to trust her since this was not the first time she owed me money. I learned my lesson that when it comes to business, it is important to stay on top of money. Fortunately, this is the only person I have had money issues with in over 20 years.

2021 Holiday Gift Guide

Posted on November 2, 2021 by MichelleChiang.design

This list is being updated frequently. Please check back often for new additions. Feel free to share your suggestions in the comment section!

It’s that time again! At the end of the year, we love to express our gratitude and good wishes with gifts to people around us. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, our living styles and purchasing habits have shifted. With the current situation of the supply chain, we may want to find gifting options that support small businesses and artisans, are environmentally friendly, are digital, or create an experience.

Send Cards

It is so joyful to receive a handwritten note. For those of us who can’t quite make our own cards, there are wonderful artisans who help us to say what we want to say.

Playa Paper

Handcrafted paper goods. All cards include postage.

Pretty by Post

Curated greeting cards for snail mail lovers available as single collections or subscription.

Handmade Goods

There is something charming about handmade goods. Artisans make jewelry, soaps, candles, pottery, and food.

J&S MakeScents

Lower Level at 555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Hand poured soy wax candles with intoxicating fragrances that only come in one color – white. No worry about choosing the right colors to match the decor. The brand just recently opened a store space at The Shops at Mission Viejo.

My Creative Outlet

21758 Devonshire St. Chatsworth, CA 91311

This creative space has an Artisan Boutique featuring local makers.

Art for Sale

There is something charming about handmade goods. Artisans make jewelry, soaps, candles, pottery, and food.

Andres Palos

Andres Palos is a Los Angeles based digital and film photographer. Prints are available in different sizes and frame options on this website.

Matt Spangler

Matt Spangler is an artist who draws robots. His website has prints, original arts, and merchandise available.

Studio Channel Islands

2222 E Ventura Blvd. Camarillo, CA 93010

This art organization has a gift shop within its gallery. Beautiful and one-of-a-kind art objects fit all budget levels.

Creating an Experience

With some imagination and planning, this gift can be memorable without necessarily costing a lot of money. It could be a trip to a museum, self-guided architectural walking tour, a spring picnic at the park, etc. The options are limitless. You can create a ‘gift certificate’ to be redeemed after the hectic holiday season.

Other Ideas

Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Guide by Elemental Green

Elemental Green has gathered some of our favorite eco-friendly products to help infuse your home with healthier, more-sustainable gift-giving ideas. Whether you are looking for something for loved ones or dropping hints about a special treat for yourself, we are continually curating this list with fresh products that members of our team have vetted, tried, and recommend enthusiastically.