Today, we’re delighted to introduce Karen Preston, the inspiring entrepreneur behind Letter Seals. Founded in 1997, Karen's company has evolved from a home-based business into a global family of wax and seal creators. Let's dive into her story and the world of wax seals!
Meet Karen
How has running a business from home allowed you to balance your professional and personal life?
"Running a home-based business has allowed me to be present for my sons as they grew up, balancing my work with family life by managing tasks during off-hours. While it's challenging to make a living outside the corporate workplace and manage expenses like health insurance, the ability to live on our own terms and engage directly with my customers makes it all worthwhile."
Traditional Techniques
Why is it important to you to preserve traditional wax sealing methods?
"Preserving traditional wax sealing methods is important to me because they add a personal touch that digital communication simply can't replicate. A wax-sealed letter conveys the creator’s intent and importance, making the recipient feel valued. In today’s digital world, receiving a handwritten letter with a wax seal is a rare and treasured experience. It demonstrates the significance of relationships, expresses appreciation, and brings joy to both the sender and recipient. This tangible connection is more meaningful than ever."
A Day in Karen's Life
How do you juggle the various aspects of your business, from production to customer service?
"The joke about the small business owner is that they never stop never stopping. The hustle is real! Running a small business means wearing many hats, and each day has its own focus. As the sole person in the business, I engrave seals to order every other day, pack and ship orders each morning, and handle customer inquiries as they come in. To stay on top of everything, I set specific goals for each day and make time in the evenings to develop new product designs and social engagement. The excitement of creating fresh and innovative products keeps me motivated to balance all these aspects."
Embracing Innovation
How do you incorporate new methods and materials into your product line?
"Incorporating new methods and materials is essential to keeping the art of wax sealing fresh and relevant. At LetterSeals.com, we were pioneers in introducing glue gun sealing waxes, now a popular method for using sealing wax. While imitation in the market is flattering, it also drives me to constantly innovate. I’m always brainstorming unique ways to use traditional tools and techniques, ensuring that our products stand out in a competitive global marketplace. By maintaining high manufacturing standards and pushing the boundaries of creativity, we continue to lead in our field."
Conclusion
Thank you, Karen, for sharing your journey and the heart behind Letter Seals. Your dedication to preserving tradition while embracing innovation is truly inspiring. We look forward to seeing what the future holds for you and your family of creators!
Website: www.letterseals.com