Recently, I shared a post on social media with a carousel of some very old (and many cringe-worthy) photos of the early years of business. I was surprised at the many comments and so I thought I’d share it here, in a more permanent spot too…

It wasn’t until I was working on the content for my first surface design workshop last summer that it occurred to me that by the time I was 31, my design work was sustaining my whole family. It surprised me, once I realized how old - or how young - I was. I started Kate & Birdie in 2004. I was 25. I had no idea of what I was doing, no framework growing up of women starting their own businesses (in manufacturing and international trade no less). Just a lot of gumption and determination, and perhaps some youthful energy (and maybe a little - or a lot - of naivety). I got to experience my biggest and wildest dreams. Dreams I had as a kid of immigrants who had middle school educations, sand since I was as young as I can remember. I feel like I’ve lived a six lifetimes since then, and have shifted my work and business over the years (autoimmune diseases and all). Pivoting here and there and getting to try new things and take on new work projects.

Now as part of it, I get to encourage and champion others through consulting and workshops while they take on creative endeavours and pursue dreams too. All these years later, entering a new season and feeling that shift again… in an exciting way, and I get to see what kind of creative inspiration comes next.

Join me in my studio for a Surface Design Workshop:

Thursday, July 17th, 2025

1:00-4:00pm

in the lovely Elm Park neighbourhood of Winnipeg, Manitoba

Join me in my backyard studio when the hydrangeas are blooming and we’ll chat about all things illustration and surface design. We’ll enjoy some light bites and sip tea or sparkling water while we learn about creating print and pattern collections, how to build a beautiful collection, pattern repeats, and designing eye-catching portfolios. I’ll share about my experiences in my 21 years in the surface design industry, including working with brands through licensing, freelance projects, trade shows and working with independent retail shops and large accounts worldwide through wholesale. I’ll share some of the things I’ve learned over the years, whether that’s hard lessons, challenges or successes. I love Q&A, so bring any questions you may have. You are also welcome to bring your portfolio or sketchbook.

This afternoon is for anyone in a creative business in surface design, or desiring to pursue one. Solo creative work and running a small business can be challenging, and it can feel quiet or lonely from time to time as you’re growing and learning. It’s my hope to create a welcoming space for connection and real conversation, to share from my experience in the industry and I hope, to leave you feeling inspired and encouraged.

Details: Limited amount of tickets are available (based on the size of my table). Shortly after signing up, you’ll receive an email with my address and any additional important details. Tickets are non-refundable. In the event of the requirement to cancel (for example, if a minimum number of participants isn’t reached), the workshop may be postponed until an optimal date or your ticket will be refunded in full. *Registration closes July 11th.

I so look forward to hosting you here this summer! Reserve your spot here.