Meet Caitlin Daunis | Calligrapher & Engraver

We had the good fortune of connecting with Caitlin Daunis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Caitlin, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?

The funny thing is, I never seriously considered a creative career until I was at a cross-road in my life. I had left a traditional 9-5 job to be a stay-at-home-mom, and as my kids grew older I was feeling that itch to return to work. I knew I wanted to try my best to find something I was really excited about, something that was fulfilling, I just didn’t know what that would be. What I did know was that I sensed this creativity inside of me that was waiting to be let out. It was during this time that I started to use hand lettering and calligraphy to unwind, decompress, and flex my creative muscles. It really was soothing for me in a time where I needed that. The more I practiced, the more I fell in love and realized this might be the answer I was looking for.

It started as simple calligraphy for place cards and invitation addressing for weddings (which I love!) but over time it has grown and transformed in amazing ways. I began offering engraving on a variety of materials, and realized all my services can be taken on-site for a live-event. As an extrovert, engaging with guests while creating a personalized keepsake for them is so fueling for me and something I have really been enjoying.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When you picture calligraphy you are probably imagining a completely different time period where a note is being penned with black ink and a feather quill. While I love the timeless elegance of dip-pen calligraphy on paper, what I love even more is that I can use the art of lettering to make just about anything a personal and bespoke memento. I can transform an aged bottle of whiskey into a memorable 60th birthday gift. I can turn a simple mirror into a beautiful wedding welcome sign to greet guests as they arrive to celebrate those dear to them. I can hand letter on an oyster shell that will serve as a unique place card at a seaside soirée.

I really take a lot of pride in getting to know my clients and working closely with them during the whole process, no matter the size of the project. That rapport and trust they have in me is something I don’t take for granted. Of course, I have faced challenges along the way, but there’s no use in crying over spilled ink! I have worked hard to maintain the mentality that I just have to keep taking that next step. I feel proud when I think about what I am doing by starting a creative business and I hope to be setting a good example for my kids. I want them to feel that anything is possible if you work hard, try your best, and use your natural strengths. You were born with a gift – find it and use it!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Being a native San Diegan, I feel like I know this city pretty well but even I need to do more exploring. Going to the beach would be our first stop, Moonlight Beach is my favorite. If you are feeling really adventurous, try to snag a spot at San Elijo State Beach for a day or two of camping! Walk across the train tracks for some famous VG Donuts and take a walk through Cardiff and Encinitas. Not too far from there is Annie’s Canyon Trail. It is a great hike with varying levels of difficulty and the the slot canyons are great for photo-ops. Before kids I worked in La Jolla for over 10 years and Piatti down in the shores is just so good. I still go back every chance I get. The World Famous San Diego Zoo is a no-brainer but in addition to the animals, the self-guided botanical tour is really amazing! So many plants to learn about and you can explore the zoo with a totally different set of eyes. In north county, The Safari Park (sister property to the San Diego Zoo) has so much to offer with beautiful walking paths and the Africa Tram. Plus they have platypuses; the only place to have them outside of Australia! I Love Pappalecco in Kensington for a delicious bite before a walk down Adams Avenue. Eastbound Bar & Grill in Lakeside is our local spot for delicious food, fun atmosphere and they have a great back patio which is perfect for families. For a real good time – grab a lane at Parkway Bowl, have a beer, and blast to the past.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
From the get-go, I have felt so encouraged and supported by countless friends and family. Though, without question, my husband, Shane has been my biggest supporter. He is firefighter/paramedic and I have seen his passion for his career and serving his community for over 15 years. And as I have taken the leap to pursue a passion of mine, he as been nothing but my biggest champion.

Professionally, connecting with other calligraphers has been such a neat experience. In 2022 I joined a program called The Craft Academy, where I have learned so much as a creative entrepreneur and it really has helped me take my business to the next level. Through this group I have connected with calligraphers from all over the world and I love seeing the individuality in each artist.

I also have to shoutout my clients! Whether the project is a personalized commission, or a large wedding production where I work with awesome event planners, I love the variety that my work presents me with! There are so many incredibly talented calligraphers and I feel so grateful when a client chooses to work with me.

Website: https://loopandswoopcalligraphy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loopandswoopcalligraphy/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loopandswoopcalligraphy

Image Credits
Lauren Lucile Creative Nikki Hildebrand Photography Paige Hill Photography LaLoba Photography, Dayley Photography