Rising Stars: Meet Miriam Fanous

Today we’d like to introduce you to Miriam Fanous.

Hi Miriam, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started my career as a pharmacist (and still practice!) but soon realized that I needed a creative outlet as a hobby. I’ve always loved the arts as a child but wasn’t introduced to calligraphy until my late 20s. I clearly fell in love with the art of pointed pen and never intended to turn it into a business until I began sharing my work on Instagram. Shortly after, I began to receive requests for custom work and with the help of my husband, started Agape Calligraphy as an official business in 2018 (without him, Agape Calligraphy would not be where it is today, as cliche as that may sound). During the pandemic, I added a CO2 laser cutter/engraver to the Agape workshop (aka my garage), which has allowed for limitless product options that I’m able to offer, as well as being able to personalize *almost* anything for anyone.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I feel like I can confidently say that nothing in life is a completely smooth road. There will always be hiccups and obstacles, but it’s those things that allow me to learn and grow. It seemed at first that I was getting a lot of custom requests and then when I created my website, it seemed that everything came to a halt. I learned that I needed to put more effort into marketing myself and my business, and when I began to do so, there was some sort of steady workflow that fruited from that. Although I know that marketing is still something I struggle with, and finding the energy to put myself out there every day on social media is something I still loathe, without sowing, there is no reaping.

One of the biggest struggles I faced was learning how take on every role a small business owner needs to be: designer, marketer, content creator, web designer, bookkeeper, etc. I’ve learned to be patient with myself and to take the time to learn to do things correctly and to also ask experts of their field for help.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I studied the art of pointed pen calligraphy, both traditional and modern calligraphy, under many well-known instructors of the industry. Utilizing the instruction I received, I am able to specialize in wedding calligraphy (envelope addressing, reception calligraphy, wedding signage, etc.), custom home pieces and lettered goods including calligraphy prints, wooden signs, custom letters/vows, and since adding the laser cutter/engraver, I’ve been able to add engraved cutting/charcuterie boards, personalized engraved tumblers, cake toppers and so many other wood and acrylic products.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I would have to say the two apps I utilize heavily with my business are Instagram for social media presence and Lightroom for photo editing.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.agapecalligraphy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agape.calligraphy/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/agapecalligraphy
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/agape-calligraphy-rancho-santa-margarita?osq=agape+calligraphy

Image Credits:
Jen Perez Photography Sara Keefe Photography TNK Photo