Life & Work with Maryann Joseph

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maryann Joseph

Hi Maryann, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
At just 14 years old, I embarked on my professional journey by starting work at a law firm, an early introduction to the complexities of the legal world that shaped my ambitions. As I grew older, life took on new dimensions with marriage and the joy of raising a family. Balancing these responsibilities has been both fulfilling and challenging. Driven by a desire to ensure a bright future for my children, I decided to supplement our household income by launching my own business. This entrepreneurial venture is not just about financial stability, but about providing the best possible education for my kids, specifically enrolling them in a Catholic school where they can receive a values-based education that aligns with our family’s beliefs.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It depends on what you consider smooth! I can say for the most part that this job has been very rewarding in many ways. My bridal clients love their pieces and are so happy to see the completed projects. My memorial clients, although grieving the death of a loved one, do appreciate the beauty in the keepsakes I make for them. So, I would say that as far as making clients happy, yes, it has been a smooth road. Of course, you have the client who is impatient and contacts you incessantly to check the status of their projects, even though I’ve provided a timeline. Honestly, that is what causes the most anxiety or bumps in the road for me. I do not like to work under pressure, and will not compromise the quality of my work just because you are in a hurry to have it back. Art takes time, at least good art, and patience is a must.

Because I work full time in addition to my business, and I have two young boys who are very active in year-round sports, my biggest struggle has been time. I am grateful that I am able to ask for help from fellow Moms/Dads when it comes to carpooling to and from school/sports, but that doesn’t apply when making it to a game. My children are my priority, so sometimes projects get behind because of this.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Something a lot of people are surprised about is that I work full time as a Legal Assistant, and that I have been at the same firm for nearly 31 years now. Considering I am 44 years old, that is almost unheard of. I started at the Firm when I was 14 years old entering client data into the computer, which was a new thing at that time. I slowly worked my way up and I now manage the Family Law Department in our Firm.

Because of my experience with the Firm at such a young age, I have learned that professionalism is key. As a consumer, I have dealt with small business owners who will address me as “Honey”, “Sweatheart”, “Babe”, “Love”, etc. I can honestly say that I cringe everytime this happens. Call me old-fashioned, but I believe that keeping it business and professional is the best way to do business. I will never address a client unprofessionally.

I also think my experience at the Firm has taught me how to deal with conflict or uncomfortable situations. Have I had clients who are not happy with the end result? I would be lying if I said I didn’t. As a business owner, especially an artist, you are guaranteed to have someone unhappy with the final result of their piece. Sometimes, it’s a lack of communication, or a differing of opinions, but any time I have had a situation like this occur, I have learned a lesson that I try not to repeat. Either way, I always make it clear that my goal is to make my client happy. I will do whatever is in my power to do that, if possible.

What does success mean to you?
Success to me is happiness. If I am happy with how something turned out, I have succeeded. As an artist, or business owner, you are always the most critical of your own work. Sometimes, I will look at something I have completed and find the smallest flaw and will be so hard on myself. But, I have learned over the years not to sweat the small stuff. Almost every single time this has happened, my client has loved the piece. Happy client means happy MJ.

I also believe that making a positive impact on clients and the community can be a significant source of satisfaction. Knowing that your work contributes to the happiness of others adds meaning to your efforts.

Success is continuous learning, overcoming challenges, and personal development.

In essence, happiness for a business owner often involves a blend of achieving professional goals, maintaining personal well-being, and creating a positive impact in their sphere of influence.

Pricing:

• For Options and Pricing, please visit my website.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.timelessmemoriesbymj.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timelessmemoriesbymj/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/timelessmemoriesbymj