Meet Megan of Camellia Memories
Hello & Welcome!
I’m Megan, owner and designer of Camellia Memories. Much like a wedding invitation, I’m a creative thing in a small package–really, I only measure up to 4’11”!
My love affair with art began in middle school, a time when sketches of horses were strewn all over my bedroom. Through high school, it grew into a passion for creating personal, handcrafted projects for Christmas gifts.
But my love for wedding stationery bloomed when I designed my own invitations. As a bride, I couldn’t find unique wedding invitations that spoke to me, so I used my graphic design training from Loyola University New Orleans to make ones that did. Now, I enjoy helping couples create wedding stationery that doubles as an artistic and deeply personal keepsake.
The Art of Pastels
Every drawing I create is infused with a sense of heritage and artistry. My grandmother, Joy Bates, was a talented portrait artist, and she passed her soft pastel collection down to me when she retired. Pastels are a chalky medium that create romantic illustrations with bold colors. I still use her pastels today, blending fine art with modern design to give my stationery and illustrations a unique look.
When my grandmother passed away two months after I decided to start my business, I named it for her favorite flower, one that had been important to her family. And so Camellia Memories was born.
Should you work with me?
We’ll get along great if:
• You’re a fan of New Orleans and southern hospitality.
• You love a classic invitation style combined with colorful, fine art illustrations.
• You enjoy details, timeframes, and knowing what’s coming next.
• You need a partner in crime to transform you big ideas into beautiful wedding art!
Things that Have my heart–Besides Stationery!
• NOLA, of course! I’m a native and plan to live here forever. Where else can you find food and fun like ours?
• My resident blacksmith! I love supporting my husband Jared at craft shows and living history events as he teaches kids and adults alike about the art of metalworking.
• Beignet, my black lab rescue pup! She promises to lay beside me as I work on your stationery. She takes her role as “Office Support Pup” seriously!
• Gardening! My favorite plant is a carnivorous pitcher plant named Judy. She eats the bugs. That makes me happy.