Today we’d like to introduce you to Casie Diaz.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
When I was in high school, my dad told me it was time for me to find a job, so I looked in the local newspaper (I’m dating myself!) and found a cute little stationery store in Corona del Mar, called Francis-Orr. I worked there as I went on to college and even after, as I fell in love with paper and being an intimate part of people’s special moments. I was there for 16 years until they closed in 2015 and soon after my last day, Custom by Casie was born. I continue to work with several of my beloved Francis-Orr clients for holiday orders and word-of-mouth brings new lovely brides for wedding invitations and paper goods.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
There have definitely been a few hurdles along the way. As I started my own business, I got married and found out I was pregnant all in the same year. I was overwhelmed with new business practices, my own wedding planning and crazy pregnancy hormones all at once, so 2015 was a wild ride. The balance of business and baby was difficult at first, but with support all around me from family, friends, and clients, it was a year I wouldn’t take back or change for anything!
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Custom by Casie – what should we know?
I would say my specialty is paper, which I know, sounds so broad! I love all paper goods and occasions that I can’t say I specialize in one over the other. I design wedding invitations and day-of goods, bridal and baby showers, baby announcements, business stationery, birthday invitations, bar and bat mitzvah invitations, kids party invitations, and party/wedding accessories like napkins, signage, place cards, menus, koozies, stir sticks, coasters, etc. I believe I can give my clients an exclusive one-on-one experience with the attention to detail that many stores can’t provide. I try to really capture the vision of their event in an invitation. I love to incorporate personal details to really make it memorable for everyone. I pride myself on great customer service. I was taught fabulous customer service skills early on and continue to believe that is one of the most important things in a business.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My biggest supporters and teammates are my family. My husband and parents have been my rocks. They provide so much support, guidance, and inspiration. Their belief in me is what allowed me to have the confidence to take the plunge. I wouldn’t have a business if it weren’t for them. My kiddos also deserve a mention for sharing their lives and “mom-time” with Custom by Casie. I am a one-woman-show with one woman behind-the-scenes. My sidekick, my friend, designer Katherine Foley. We’ve been friends and co-workers for almost six years and she speaks my language. My clients are the best! They are loyal, caring and motivating. Actually, without THEM I wouldn’t have a business to speak of. I have built some fabulous relationships and found some true friends in them.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2522 Chambers Road, Suite 100
Tustin, California 92780 - Website: custombycasie.com
- Phone: 949.275.2040
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @custombycasie
Image Credit:
Michelle Ramirez Photography, Lauren Newman Photography, Braedon Fylnn Photography
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