Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianne Kakihara.
Hi Brianne, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I picked up my first calligraphy pen during my freshman year at Azusa Pacific University. In that season of transition, I found myself lettering and watercoloring scripture as a therapeutic outlet. From that point on, I was hooked! I made prints, cards, bookmarks, notebooks–give me any canvas, I’d letter and paint on it. Though I had no idea the technicalities of what I was doing, it allowed me to connect with God in a new way. It brought me life.
A few months later, a hallmate saw my work and commissioned me to create a few pieces for her. I was honestly shocked anyone would want to pay me, but was up for the challenge. In November 2016, I participated in my first craft fair at San Gabriel Christian School. Nervous, excited, hopeful, unsure–I felt all the emotions as it was the first time selling my prints. God was gracious during that time as I learned a little more of the business side of things.
Over the past five years, I’ve been able to teach workshops, host ministry events, participate in more craft fairs, and create custom pieces such as life verse prints and graduation cap toppers. Probably one of the highlights has been meeting new friends and connecting with other creatives along the way. My parents have been a constant source of encouragement as I pursue my passions, even when my art stuff takes over the house. I am incredibly grateful for this journey and in some ways, feel like it’s only beginning!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The path to where Beloved is today has come with many joys, struggles, and growing pains. At times, it is a love/hate relationship because I love the freedom that lettering and painting allows, but hate when my fears and perfectionist tendencies inhibit me from stepping into that freedom. Two of the biggest challenges I’ve had to overcome are comparison and fear of man. In fact, I was confiding in a close friend about that recently because it’s something I still struggle with.
Comparison truly is the thief of joy. The lettering world is saturated with beautiful and talented artists (and the community on Instagram is especially incredible!) but, it is easy for me to get stuck feeling inadequate or not “good enough”. I have to constantly remind myself WHO I do this for. Some things that have helped me get out of that rut are: seeking the Lord, preaching his truths over me and the business, and probably the best, most practical thing, taking breaks from social media to realign my heart. People say to remember your, “WHY”, and I think there is so much truth to that.
The other challenge is the fear of man, especially when it comes to the business aspect. I recently took the plunge and opened my own Etsy shop aside from doing custom commissions. Opening a shop had been a lingering dream, but also fear of mine. I was fearful of expanding the business. I feared putting a price tag on my work for the world to see. I feared the judgement of others. “What are people going to think of this? Will people buy this product? Am I pricing too much? Too little?” These questions overwhelm me at times. While I believe it is healthy to be self-aware and cognizant of others’ feelings, I’ve learned I can’t let that solely dictate how I run my business or value my work. Releasing those thoughts is a work in progress, but through the tears and frustrations, I have gained more confidence in valuing my time and craft, despite what others may think. A verse I’ve always held on to is Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” When I keep that at the forefront, I am able to experience freedom again.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In this current season, I feel called to pursue Beloved of the Heavens more intentionally and wholeheartedly. I’m currently on Etsy selling stickers, digital and original prints, and other stationary goods, but am hoping to transition to my own e-commerce site soon. It’s been a learning curve and I’ve gained an insane amount of respect and appreciation for small business owners. Running a small biz takes sacrifice and countless hours of behind the scenes work, especially for those who do it on their own! That being said, I’m thankful for the platform I’ve been given to use my voice, even if it’s small. I’m not sure how long I’ll be doing this, but I know calligraphy and watercolor will always be a part of my life in some way.
The only thing I can say that sets me apart is my relationship with Jesus. My faith fuels me to create and steward well the gifts God has given me. I value having a heart of empathy and compassion, seeking to understand before making judgement, and choosing to find joy no matter the situation. I’m always learning and am excited for the ways God will continue to stretch me. Growth, even if it’s slow, is still growth. Above all, I’m thankful for a God who draws nearer and embraces me in each and every season.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Ahh, there are so many! Sleepovers at my grandparents’ houses were some of the most fun memories. Both sets of grandparents lived nearby so my younger sister and I spent the night at their houses often. Time with my dad’s parents usually consisted of Baskin Robbins ice cream runs, hula practices, and Gram’s kalua pig and cabbage and yakisoba. My mom’s parents would take us to Disneyland, drive us to and from countless basketball practices, and Grandma always had a pot of miso soup ready when we arrived at her house. I miss those days, but am thankful for the time I still have with the four of them. Simply put, grandparents are the BEST!
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.belovedoftheheavens.com
- Etsy Shop: Beloved of the Heavens
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belovedoftheheavens/
Image Credits
Corina Elpidia Photography
