Studio Stories: Sofia Daskalaki

Approaching Challenges Creatively, an Interview with Sofia Daskalaki

Not many people have the courage to start their own business, and even fewer would try without formal training, but Sofia Daskalaki is proof that anyone can create a successful brand with enough passion and perseverance.

This Greek artist taught herself how to use different mediums so she could pour her playful imagination into art pieces. Even though her journey hasn’t been the easiest, her joy and gratitude uplift everyone who encounters her work.

This is why Greetings Island is delighted to present our invitation collaboration with Sofia. Read our interview with her that commemorates this occasion and celebrates her journey as an artist.

Lots of your designs for Greetings Island have Greek flair, such as blue and white colors and even delicious Mediterranean foods. Would you say that your art is inspired by your own experiences as a Greek woman? What other things inspire you?

Yes, absolutely! My Greek heritage is a big inspiration for my art. The bright blue and white colors of the Aegean Sea, along with the vivid reds and pinks of the island flowers, greatly influence my style. I also often incorporate rich Mediterranean fruits like oranges, lemons, figs, and tangerines into my designs, adding a touch of local flavor and vibrancy.

But my inspiration goes beyond just Greece. I also get ideas from my trips. Each trip gives me new perspectives and cultural experiences that make my art better. Family life is also a significant source of inspiration for my creativity.

On your website, you share that you’re a self-taught illustrator who started a business in 2020. You also wrote that becoming a mother and the isolation of the pandemic helped push you toward your new career path. What were the greatest learning experiences in those early days?

The early days taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance and continuous self-improvement. I learned that success doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s crucial to keep working toward your goals, even when they seem out of reach. I faced many challenges and doubts, but I kept going. Reading, learning, and practicing were the keys to improving my skills, and I realized that personal and professional growth is an ongoing process that lasts a lifetime.

Your first collaboration was creating tea towels. Now, your art is on greeting cards, bathing suits, phone cases, and more. What other items would you love to see your artwork on in the future?

Oh, sneakers! I’d love to see my designs dancing across the toes and sides of sneakers. It would be like carrying a little piece of my joy with every step!

Many people from around the world dream of visiting Greece and even hosting beautiful events there, such as weddings. Can you share your favorite things about Greece?

Greece is a multifaceted destination, and that’s why I love it so much. You can relax on the beach, hike through a gorge, or even go skiing—you can do whatever you want. But my top three passions about my country are the food, the sun, and the sea.

You’ve expressed feeling nervous and doubtful as a new business owner. What advice has helped you maintain your confidence that could also help others?

Doubts and nervousness are natural parts of running a business—and they can actually be beneficial. These feelings push us to improve our skills and try harder. Instead of letting doubts hold us back, we should use them as motivation to approach challenges creatively. It’s crucial to remember that confidence doesn’t mean the absence of doubt; in fact, overconfidence can sometimes be distracting. By taking small steps and persevering, we can eventually see our wins and celebrate them.

On your Instagram, you’ve shared images of your office. It’s bright, organized, and full of warmth and color. Can you explain what a normal workday in your studio is like?

I love that place. I recently moved to my new studio, and it was the best decision I’ve made for my business and myself. I was lucky enough to create my space exactly how I wanted—filled with energy, happy vibes, and many small creative corners to work in when I’m not feeling inspired.

My days tend to run smoothly. I enter my studio around 10 am and leave at 4 pm. I always arrive with a coffee in hand and usually carry my iPad. I like to start with my to-do list for the day and then dive straight into my projects. And before I leave the studio, I make sure I answer my emails and take care of all the “must-do” tasks. Then I lock my door and leave it to shine until the next day!

You state that you’re a chocolate enthusiast in your Instagram bio. Can a party or event ever be complete without at least one chocolate dessert? What are your favorite chocolatey treats?

Oh, chocolate! It’s like a party in my mouth. Would it surprise you if I told you that I’m a traditional chocolate fan? I love milk chocolate with almonds—imagine biting into a creamy, nutty heaven. But I’m not picky! I also love the rich taste of dark chocolate and the surprise of fruit-filled ones.

Now, when it comes to desserts, I’m a bit of a rebel. I actually prefer white desserts! It’s like I’m living a double life—chocolate lover by day; white dessert fan by night.

You started your art journey on an iPad, and now you work with all kinds of tools. What’s your favorite medium and why?

I love drawing digitally, but I’ve always loved painting as well. If I had my way, I would have started this journey with traditional media, but unfortunately, I didn’t have the time to dedicate as I was a mom to a newborn.

Today, I find it irresistibly beautiful to create art with paint for many reasons: more quality time, more focus on my work (there’s no undo button), and no screens or blue light. But we need to face reality. If I need to work on multiple projects in a month, the digital world is my companion.

If I had to choose one medium, I’d pick my favorite acrylic gouache for its vibrancy, durability, smoothness, and matte finish. It’s the undisputed winner in my list of media.

Do you feel like you’ve finally found the perfect balance in life as an individual, entrepreneur, mother, and wife? What steps have been most helpful in creating a peaceful and fulfilling lifestyle?

Balance is an ongoing journey for me. Although it feels like I’ve been working on this for ages, I’m still in the early stages. As I mentioned earlier, moving my workspace out of my home was a game-changer. It allowed me to have some free time, relax, and simply enjoy moments of doing nothing.

This summer was the first time I managed to take some time off. I spent it in my studio, simply drawing, and it was an incredible experience that I plan to repeat annually. However, I recognize that I still have a long journey ahead.

Do you have a favorite holiday or life event? What would your dream gathering look like?

I absolutely adore the Christmas holidays, especially New Year’s Day, when our entire family comes together. It’s a cherished tradition where we enjoy a Greek feast surrounded by my favorite people: parents, uncles, cousins, and all those who have shaped my fondest memories. This special gathering happens only once a year, and if I’m not there, it feels like a vital piece of my life is missing.

As for my dream gathering, I envision a day where I’m sitting together with all my beloved e-friends from around the world. While the illustration world is vibrant and colorful, it can also be quite solitary. I’ve been fortunate enough to connect with many creative peers online, chatting with them and sharing ideas, thoughts, and insecurities on a weekly basis. My ultimate dream is to meet these talented friends in person. And I hope to make this a reality one day!

With so much talent and passion, your business has many incredible years ahead. What are your long-term goals for your brand?

My long-term goal is to stay present and continue creating art. Though the future is uncertain, I’m committed to growing my brand while remaining true to my passion for designing pieces that positively impact the world. I aim to keep learning, honing my skills, and evolving my style, all while creating designs that bring smiles to people’s faces.

Greetings Island loves working with the brightest artists who can bottle up a bunch of love and happiness to pour into each piece. Thanks to Sofia Daskalaki (full collection link)  and all of our other amazing collaborators, we can keep helping others plan the most magical events possible.

Do you have any special plans coming up? If so, don’t wait to dive into our party invitations collection. With gorgeous designs and user-friendly tools that make customization a breeze, you’ll be able to send out perfect invites for every occasion.

Would you love to keep up with Sofia’s journey? Make sure you follow her Instagram @happyhemera.

^{Photo by: Vesela Vaclavik on UnSplash}