Rising Stars: Meet Bernadette Baker

Today we’d like to introduce you to Bernadette Baker.  

Hi Bernadette, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Bernadette, and I’m the brains behind of Notelette Press. I’m a wife, mother of two teenage boys, and a one-year-old puppy. 

I served 12 years in the Navy before I decided to pursue my passion for art and what I longed for as an office administrator… practical, fun, office stationery. I wanted to create a company that reflects my love for both. 

I’ve always loved art; some of my earliest memories include me drawing pictures in the front covers of my books and making my own “From the Desk of” letterhead with notebook paper. 

As an administrator in the Navy, I wanted to express myself with fun, bright office stationery when it was acceptable. It was so easy to get lost in the green/brown drab that seemed to surround me, I needed something that represented me, and I often had to create it myself. 

In March of 2021, we lost my stepdad to COVID, and I kept hearing people say the same thing. “He was so close to retirement; he’ll never get to do all the things that he wanted.” It broke my heart. I kept thinking of all the things that I wanted to do, but I was putting off until all the conditions were right. It consumed me; I started to tell my husband my ideas of starting a business centered around my art and designs. He was on board, he believed in me so much that I thought he was crazy! 

It wasn’t until I was shopping in San Diego with my mom that I could see myself being an artist. We were browsing around in Liberty Station and looking at a stand that had postcards, stickers, notebooks, and all sorts of stationery. My mom looked over at me and said, “Bernadette, you could do this. You could have something like this.” Oh, it was an unreal moment. The gears in my head started turning, you know? Like can I really do this? I went home and told my husband, and that was it! 

I decided that I needed to pursue my dreams of being an artist, and I had to be intentional with my future. Shortly after, I left the Navy. As much as I loved my Sailors and the Navy itself, I had to leave to grow into the person I wanted to be. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Oh gosh no! I’ve hit many roadblocks I had little success in the beginning, but it’s been a journey figuring out the financial side of things and the markets aspects. I just have to give myself grace and be open to learning. I want to grow at my own pace, I trust that God will lead me along the way, and I have to learn certain things in order to be wise enough to keep my success in the future. 

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?
My designs are far from ordinary; they’re fun, bright, and full of original art. From my colorful notepads to the few apparel items I have, I’m dedicated to bringing functional items that represent the best and brightest parts of my community. I really love my stickers, you know; some of them are uplifting, some are unassuming, some are just cute doodles that I wanted to share. 

I think I’m most proud of my recent Valentine’s Day Collection, it was the first time that I’ve really tried to put together a cohesive group of products and everyone loved them! 

I believe that the things you carry should be more than just a tool to get through the day. They should be a reflection of you and your unique personality and creativity. That’s why I love to creating products that are one-of-a-kind, and that just make sense. 

You know, I love color! Teals, pinks, and purples. Color elicits emotion, and I take that into consideration when I’m designing my products. I know that when I’m making a notepad, I’m not going to change someone’s life. But if I can give them a little serotonin boost from the bright, beautiful to-do list they have in front of them. Man! It’s totally worth it! I love thinking it from that aspect. It’s the little things! 

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Support the artist in your community. There are so many amazing people out here trying to add more beauty to our world, give them a like on social media, snap a picture, and share it with your followers. These things go a long way! Everyone loves being appreciated, and it doesn’t cost a thing. Spread the love! 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.notelettepress.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/notelette_press
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/notelettepress
• Other: www.pinterest.com/Notelette_Press