What Story Is Your Grid, Website and Portfolio Telling?

Hey friend,

Do you get a little giddy when the leaves turn golden hues? That shift always cues something inside of me, an urge to slow down, reflect and look closely at what’s taken root this year.

November seems to invite that kind of reflection. The air changes, the days grow cozier with less light and suddenly we’re noticing what’s grown strong… and what might be ready for pruning.

This week, I want to offer a two part check-in, to help you see your creative presence with fresh eyes before we step into a new season of opportunity:

Does your Instagram grid reflect your style and goals clearly?

Does your portfolio (PDF or website) feel ready to share?

Both are storytellers for your brand. Let’s make sure they’re telling the right story.

3 Ways to Refine Your Brand Story

1. Audit your grid like a new viewer.

Open your Instagram and imagine someone landing there for the first time. In your bio, highlights, and first 9 squares, can they see your style, niche, and focus?

If not, archive what’s no longer serving your future direction and create content that does. Your grid should feel cohesive and attract opportunities even before it’s read.

Use your bio strategically with searchable keywords like pattern design, children’s illustration, loose watercolor florals. Treat your highlight covers like a mini portfolio. Feature flat lays, process reels, and mockups that help brands picture your work on their products.

2. Update your portfolio with intention, not volume.

You don’t need more designs, you need clarity. Keep only the patterns that represent where you want to go, not just what you’ve made before. Curate like a brand director choosing a capsule collection.

This applies to both Instagram and your formal portfolio. Curated sell sheets are especially powerful when pitching. Share your best work first, and make sure every decision supports the kind of collaborations you want next.

3. Connect with intention.

Your presence isn’t just about presentation, it’s about connection. Every post, mockup, or portfolio page should invite your audience into your story. Show the heart behind the art.

When your visuals align with your values and vision, you naturally attract the right opportunities. Stay front of mind by posting consistently, engaging authentically and participating in creative challenges that stretch and inspire you.

Your Creative Prompt

Pair today’s Studio Notes with the new November Custom Mockup, a versatile, festive canvas for your beautiful designs. Use it to refresh your portfolio, replace outdated visuals, or bring new life to your next post.

From My Studio to Yours

Your visuals are often the first hello a brand receives from you.
Let’s make sure that hello feels unmistakably you, rooted, confident, and ready for what’s next.

If you’re planning to grow your licensing portfolio or want personalized feedback before the new year, enrollment for The Creative Mentorship opens November 13–16.

Join the Creative Mentorship Waitlist 

p.s. Want weekly encouragement, creative tips and resources like a custom monthly mock ups? Join Studio Notes Here 🫶