Conversations with Reese Firmacion

Today we’d like to introduce you to Reese Firmacion.

Hi Reese, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I believe I was born an artist, and I never gave up on my childhood dream because I’m stubborn in the best way. I can’t imagine myself in a different field and I’m incredibly fortunate to have Asian immigrant parents who supported my vision for myself even though it wasn’t the most traditional path.

I grew up in the Philippines and moved to San Francisco in 2018 after earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Advertising from the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. I found opportunities that allowed me to step into the creative industry. My journey has been filled with curiosity and experimentation. I’m drawn to learning new ways of creating which has led me to explore different disciplines over the past 8 years from graphic designer, social media planner, product photographer and stylist to artisan homeware designer, textile pattern designer, and leather bag designer.

It sounds like a lot of roles, but I realized all these are connected. I wasn’t jumping careers. I was building a unique creative toolkit so I can execute whatever project I think of. That’s the beauty of being in this field! At the core of everything I do is my love for creating tactile experiences. I enjoy the process of painting with watercolor, designing thoughtful objects, and creating pieces that invite people to engage with them in a personal way. I love bringing whimsy and playfulness into my work while maintaining a meticulous attention to detail. Imaginative, intentional, and story-driven.

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?
For many artists, the journey can feel isolating because you have to carve your own path while developing your style and voice. As an introvert navigating a new culture, I faced my own challenges in finding my place and confidence, but I learned to embrace my quirks, trust my perspective, and let my work speak for itself.

At one point in my life, I felt like I was at the bottom of the food chain with no experience and connections. My advice is simple: keep going and trust the process. The journey can be an excruciating process filled with self-doubt, but I’ve always believed that the dreams planted within us are worth pursuing. One day, you’ll look back and realize you’re living the dream you once prayed for.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
One of the ways I’ve been able to bring all my experiences together is through Weddings by Reesey Studio where I create bespoke hand-painted wedding invitations that combine my love for illustration, storytelling, and thoughtful design. While I run my studio (weddingsbyreeseystudio.com), I work full-time as a textile pattern designer for a leading children’s home and lifestyle brand, and design leather bags for Sinta Yohané. I never want to limit myself to one creative field. Every pursuit broadens my perspective, allowing me to evolve creatively. I believe that’s what makes me and my work unique.

I embarked on my wedding design journey in 2023 when my sister got engaged. I wanted to craft the perfect wedding invite, website, and day-of stationery. Through that experience, I noticed a gap in the market: couples often have to choose between settling for generic templates that lack personalization and don’t fully reflect their wedding vision, or luxury designers that are out of their budget.

My business sits in the middle space. I aim to offer the same level of customization and thoughtful design that luxury designers provide, while making it more accessible for couples.

I noticed a similar need when it came to wedding websites. Many couples, especially those planning multi-day celebrations or weddings with 100+ guests, need a more personalized and seamless way to share information, manage RSVPs, and guide their guests through the event. That’s why I also offer custom website design with password protection and RSVP management tools that both couples and planners can access.

With my background in watercolor painting, graphic design, and print production, I’m able to create something that feel elevated and intentional. I want to bring this experience to couples throughout the Bay Area and beyond. I’m passionate about helping them bring their unique vision to life.

For wedding invitations, my design fee starts at around $500. Couples can view my rates and details at www.weddingsbyreeseystudio.com/pricing. I offer different packages depending on their needs, so I always recommend them to browse through my work to see what best aligns with their vision.

I encourage everyone to reach out in advance, as my availability is limited and spots can fill up quickly. I intentionally take on only a few projects each month so I can give it the attention it deserves since it’s for a very special day.

I also do custom watercolor art commissions. You can view my work on Instagram at @reeseystudio.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Beyond my work as an artist, I help design and develop bags and leather goods for Sinta Yohané, a San Francisco–based Filipino luxury brand founded by fashion content creator Johanna Dy (@izyohanna) and her husband, Jeric Dy.

The brand debuted in May 2026, with Johanna’s vision and Filipino heritage at the core of each piece. From the beginning, we approached the collection with a clear intention: to create products that embody quiet confidence. She believed that you don’t have to be loud to be remembered, and I resonated with that philosophy.

Sinta Yohané is an extension of her story, her softness, and her strength. It represents a different perspective on luxury: one that is intentional, refined, emotional, and deeply personal.

When designing something minimal, every detail matters. The focus naturally shifts to form and function, stripping away unnecessary noise. It’s about creating pieces that are timeless and made to last, using materials that age beautifully over time, like premium full-grain leather.

Explore the first collection at www.sintayohane.com.

Contact Info:

• Website: Wedding Invitation Website: www.weddingsbyreeseystudio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reeseystudio
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reesefirmacion
• Other: Portfolio: www.reeseystudio.com