Devoting yourself to learning a new skill takes serious motivation. It's not easy, and at times, all you want to do is give up.
Many people feel their resolve waver but not our design enthusiast Lisa Sylvester, mother to a two-year-old and owner of a brand design studio and template shop. In 2021, she first learned about Canva templates and decided to turn them into a source of passive income. It took an entire year of learning and tons of trials and errors, but she was able to open her shop by February 2022.
Now she enjoys a diverse customer base in her shop and spends her free time hiking, trying out various coffee shops, and visiting the many lakes of New York City.
Recently, Lisa answered a few questions for Social Media Calendar so our customers could get to know her better!
How did you become a Graphic Designer?
My first introduction to designing was actually back in 2012-2013 through picture editing. But only a year later, I switched gears toward video editing.
It wasn’t until 2020 that I learned about brand design. I then started my brand design studio, but it wasn’t enough.
I wanted a source of passive income and a way to support my daughter properly. Finally, I ran into Canva and decided to give it a go. It took a year of hard work, but I was able to open my shop by 2022.
Now, it has been two years of designing and a year of selling Canva templates. What once felt like an ordeal is now second nature to me. I am now an expert at creating minimal templates using Canva, and I have my flourishing shop, too!
Is Graphic Design your passion? Do you know why?
Yes, it is absolutely my passion. I know it’s my passion because of how serious I am about it.
Sure, it is a source of income for me, but I don't sell sub-standard products to make a few dollars. I don't look for shortcuts to make some quick income. I do my best to perfect my work and make it as useful as possible for the small businesses out there.
My continuous devotion to putting out quality products pushes me to believe that it's my passion.
60 Modern Instagram Templates
$35.10
This template pack consists of 60 modern Instagram templates. Made in CANVA, you're able to customize anything to fit your aesthetic and needs. These come in the size of an Instagram feed post & Instagram story but you can resize them… read more
What inspires your art?
I feel that there is art all around us. So, I find myself getting inspired by nature and museums. The art in my surroundings helps my creativity to flow. This way, I can create easy-to-use and minimalistic templates for my shop.
What entails your daily design process?
I usually perform my skin-care routine right after waking up in the morning. Then I brush my teeth, grab my water and sit at my desk to begin my day.
I like to check my email and scroll through my social media accounts and my shops so I know what has happened during the night. Once I'm all caught up, I begin working and spend the rest of the day designing and being a mom to my daughter.
Who buys your art from Social Media Calendar?
I am proud to tell you that my customers are from almost every background and culture. But I’ve noticed that a majority of them are online coaches.
I feel extremely happy to know that I'm helping other business owners make their social media visually appealing and attractive to their target audience.
Do you have any other jobs besides this one?
No, designing is my full-time job. I am too invested in perfecting my designs and selling top-notch products to do anything else.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself with a successful design studio and template shop. I also see myself teaching others how to make a living off of digital products. I think spreading your knowledge and allowing others to learn from your experience is important.
A Message for her Fans
Lisa is ever so enthusiastic about taking her current ventures further. But it was only possible because she was bold enough to take the first leap. She feels that" if you live in fear, you'll always be held back."
According to her, the first step taken to make your life better is the hardest because you don't know if you will succeed. However, if you step out of your comfort zone, you will flourish. Her final message to her fans is courage and persistence. She asks them never to give up!
Supporting Creatives on Social Media Calendar
Many graphic designers like Lisa are selling their designs, illustrations, planners, customizable Canva templates, and calendars on Social Media Calendar's new marketplace. You can visit their shops and buy their products to support their ventures and dreams.
Getting Featured on Social Media Calendar
Do you want us to talk about your work? Join the seller program at Social Media Calendar for a chance to sell to a vast audience and have your shop featured on this blog.
All you need to do is sign up here and upload your products. We will handle the rest!
Do you want to learn to create and sell Canva templates?
Check Jerry's super popular 6-Figure Canva Course and get started.
Take a look at Lisa's products
From here, you will find Lisas's shop Alana Designed.
