HI THERE, I'M ELYSE
The owner and calligrapher at Letter & Lyse! I discovered calligraphy through a friend in 2018, and I was immediately drawn to the artistry involved in creating every letter.
I specialize in modern calligraphy and hand-designed event signs and stationary, all of which are bespoke and created to suit your style. My work typically incorporates calligraphy alongside more modern + minimal text and design. I also offer custom signs and prints for the home, and am always happy to write pretty on any object of your hearts desire! I really believe calligraphy and hand lettered signs help convey a desired mood and enhance the overall feel of an event by creating a cohesive and custom look. These details are what make an event truly memorable and elevate your guests' experience.
Prior to owning Letter & Lyse, I spent 9 years in client success and account management roles. Calligraphy started as a hobby, and then quickly turned into a side business that I ran while working full time and raising my son with my husband. At the start of 2024, I decided to grab the pens full time.
What's in a name
Inspired by my childhood nickname, Lyse, and the Stevie Nicks song titled 'Leather & Lace' - a song my mom and I adore - Letter & Lyse is homage to my love for music, and my inspiration to create both lovely and badass things. It's also a nod to lovers, who I do much of my work for.
A BIT MORE
Based in a western suburb of Chicago, I work from my modest home studio where I reside with my husband, 2 sons Luke (two) and Liam (5 months), and 2 cats. I love a little chaos!
Other things that I’m big on: watching my sons grow, quality time with my people, reading, mental & physical wellness, music, a good glass of wine or bourbon cocktail, laughter, peanut butter in all of its forms, & travel.
I was married in the fall of 2020, and in the midst of postponing and re-planning my wedding not once but twice due to COVID-19, I found myself kind of in love with putting together the fine details of the day (again, I love chaos). Despite our wedding looking very different from what we had originally planned, after scrapping our plans entirely and DIY'ing an intimate outdoor event with our nearest and dearest, it ended up being absolutely perfect and so authentically us. I love working with others to help create the finer details of their most special days, and hope to help my clients create space and moments so authentically them.