Posted by the incredible ladies over at PapersYouLove.com... If you haven't been to the site, please visit. It's SO worth your while. Here is the interview in its entirety:
Self described as a little bit Southern and a little bit Yankee, Sophie Askew and her stationery company, Askew Design, artfully collides a posh and contemporary style with all of the charm of Southern hospitality. Sophisticated without being stuffy, Sophie is a stand out in the stationery world. We spotted Askew Design at the National Stationery Show and were immediately hooked. Sophie’s hand-drawn illustrations and skilled typography provide a chique and fresh alternative to traditional invitations. Check out Askew Designs and you’ll undeniably agree that the invitations alone are reason enough to throw a smashing celebration.
PYL: How did you get into the business of designing stationery and invitations?
AD: Through a series of career missteps! I actually started out wanting to be an attorney, and worked in a law firm after college before attending law school. Thankfully I did– it opened my eyes to what the job really entailed. It was nothing near as glamorous as the actors on Ally McBeal made it seem to be. So I left that and started working at *gulp* a singles’ club. Don’t even get me started! It was almost like being a professional matchmaker. Very freaky experience overall, and so after a few months, I found myself wanting a new career. My roommate (and best friend) told me about a design school in Atlanta that was geared for design and advertising. I signed up, and 6 months later, moved to Atlanta to attend Portfolio Center. Best decision I ever made. Interestingly enough, while there, I was recruited by Hallmark. And while I turned down the job, I definitely started to really develop and grow a small card business on the side. And here we are today!
PYL: Where do you draw inspiration for your designs?
AD: I’m an avid reader of the internet… it is such a wealth of information and inspiration. I read a TON of design blogs…. designspongeonline.com is on my daily list. I also love to take pictures when I’m traveling of architecture and fashion.
PYL: What are the distinguishing characteristics of your line?
AD: I’m an illustrator… So I find that my illustrative graphics combined with patterns and typography really help to create a unique look.
PYL: Which is your favorite design from your collection?
AD: That’s a toughie! Depends on the day, really. I fall in and out of love with my designs quickly– I can truly be my own worst critic at times. Today, right now, I would have to say Shin Dig.
PYL: Which trends should we be watching for in the future?
AD: I think the biggest trend will come from a new printing process. As much as I love letterpress, it’s feeling a little overdone now– and the market is saturated with it. I think graphics created out of typography will be pretty hot in the next 6 months. In fact, I found this amazing scarf made out of type!!
PYL: What advice do you have for aspiring paper designers?
AD: Push the envelope! (intentional pun)
Our thanks to Sophie of Askew Design. We couldn’t be bigger fans…
This interview made my year. Thank you!
