Surviving (and Thriving) During Event Season: A Calligrapher’s Guide to Beating Burnout

Event season is here, and as calligraphers, we know what that means—long hours, constant travel, and the expectation to be “on” all the time. But let’s be honest, we love what we do. The energy of live events is exhilarating, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching a client light up when they see a personalized piece come to life. That said, the physical and mental demands can sneak up on you. So, let’s chat about how to keep your energy up, stay inspired, and avoid burnout when the busy season hits full force.

1. Take Care of Your Body

Our job is surprisingly physical—holding a pen or engraving tool for hours, staying hunched over a table, or standing at events for long stretches. It’s easy to forget how much strain that puts on our bodies. Make stretching a habit, especially for your hands, neck, and shoulders. If possible, get a massage regularly (trust me, it helps). Standing on your feet for hours while keeping a steady hand and perfecting every stroke is no joke, so take care of the body that makes it all happen.

2. Manage the “Always On” Feeling

Being “on” at events takes a different kind of energy—constantly engaging with guests, answering questions, and staying focused while performing detailed work. It’s like juggling a performance with creativity and precision. To help with this, make time to mentally unplug after events. Whether it’s a nap, taking a walk, or a quick nap, give yourself space to reset between gigs. It’s important to recharge mentally, especially when you’re expected to bring your A-game to every event.

3. Set Boundaries on Your Time

It’s tempting to take on every project that comes your way, but without boundaries, burnout is inevitable. Whether it’s limiting the number of events you do in a week or blocking out rest days on your calendar, don’t be afraid to protect your time. It’s better to give 100% to a few key projects than spread yourself too thin and risk burning out.

4. Stay Organized to Avoid Last-Minute Stress

We all know that scramble before an event—packing supplies, traveling, making sure every detail is ready. Staying organized can save you from unnecessary stress. Use checklists or apps to manage your schedule and event prep. When you’ve got a system in place, it’s easier to handle the rush and keep things flowing smoothly.

5. Celebrate the Little Wins

In the middle of all the chaos, don’t forget to appreciate the small moments—each perfect letter, each piece of positive feedback from clients, or even a flawless set-up at an event. These little wins matter and can keep you motivated when things get hectic. Take a moment to pat yourself on the back—you deserve it!

6. Lean on Fellow Creatives

We all know the grind, and having a supportive community makes a huge difference. Whether it’s bouncing ideas off another calligrapher or simply venting about the challenges, connecting with others who understand the unique demands of our job can help. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your network for advice or just to share stories.

7. Keep Growing and Evolving

The event industry is always changing, and as calligraphers, it’s essential to keep things fresh. Experiment with new techniques, try different tools, or even collaborate on projects outside your usual scope. Keeping your creativity alive helps prevent burnout and keeps you excited about the work you’re doing. More than anything it reminds us why we started this in the first place.

8. Take Breaks—Even the Small Ones Count

Finding time for breaks can feel impossible during event season, but even small ones can make a difference. Between events, or even during a lull at an event, take a few minutes to stretch, sip water, or just breathe. These little moments of rest add up and help prevent exhaustion from sneaking up on you.

Final Thought

Burnout is a real risk, especially when we’re pouring ourselves into every event. But by taking care of your body, protecting your time, and giving yourself mental breaks, you can keep the creativity alive and thrive during the busiest season. Remember, you’re the artist and the engine behind the magic—take care of both.

Here’s to surviving the season, staying sharp, and continuing to create beautiful work!