There's always been something special about handmade greeting cards - I've always loved making them, and getting actual cards in your mailbox is a rare treat. Unfortunately, it was hard to find cards that possessed a bit of wit that my nerdy friends and I could appreciate. Usually, those were Stars Wars cards, and there's only so many "Use the Force" jokes you can make.

And so, armed with a bit of gumption, stacks of card stock, and hundreds of markers, I started The Gilded Oak in earnest. I wanted there to be cards that were very openly for people who refer to themselves as "nerds" or "geeks" (a title to which I happily subscribe), but I also wanted ones that were a bit more subtle. Geeky but classy. And although The Gilded Oak is comprised primarily of greeting cards, I also use it as a vehicle for my other artistic projects - like pyrography.

The main reason I prefer to use traditional media instead of digital programs is because I love the sense of tangibility and substance I achieve with the end result, even when you see it as a print. Pyrography has that same charm, allowing me to create pieces that function as geeky interior décor.

Please feel free to ask me any questions, and I hope you enjoy your visit!