East Coast Calligraphy, founded by Michele Bates, is redefining the art of fine handwriting and calligraphy on the East Coast. Inspired by her mother, an artistic educator who taught penmanship when it was a staple in schools, Bates’s love for beautiful handwriting and high-quality stationery has come full circle into a thriving creative business.
“My mom had beautiful handwriting, and I tried to mimic it as a child,” Bates recalled in an interview with NJ Urban News. “Her influence, along with my love of fine writing instruments, led me back to calligraphy after a 30-year career in analytics and bureaucracy. I wanted to return to something that brought me joy.”
Michele’s journey into calligraphy was supported by a mentor, a former President of the Philadelphia Calligraphers Society, who helped her access the tools and techniques that were hard to find locally. That experience sparked the vision for East Coast Calligraphy: filling a void for calligraphy enthusiasts in the South Jersey and Philadelphia areas.
What began as a local supply venture evolved into a full-service calligraphy business offering custom work for weddings, events, and private clients.
“People would ask me to address their wedding envelopes, and with encouragement from my daughter, a graphic designer, I realized this could be a business,” Bates said.
Running a creative business comes with challenges. “Being a business owner is difficult, Bates said, especially when people don’t always think to spend their money on art.” As a Black woman in the creative space, Bates said she brings her experiences, cultural exposure, and professionalism into her work.
“You don’t see many Black or brown calligraphers doing commission work like me,” she notes. “I hope to represent my colleagues positively, encourage them, and show that we are serious about our craft.”
Bates’s favorite projects are the ones that tell a story–like a wedding certificate she did, which features a hand-drawn castle, 200 signature lines, and even space for the couple’s dog paw print. (“The wedding was woofy approved!” Bates said.)
Her hope is that clients feel the love and dedication she puts into every piece.
“When people receive my work, I want them to see the care behind it and feel special. That smile lets me know I nailed it,” Bates said.
Looking ahead, East Coast Calligraphy plans to expand through collaborations with other instructors and creative classes. As president of the Philadelphia Calligraphers Society, Bates is also focused on bringing visibility and appreciation to calligraphy, illumination, and related arts through partnerships with universities and historical societies. The business will celebrate its 50th Anniversary in 2026 alongside the nation’s 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Michele Bates and East Coast Calligraphy are proof that passion, dedication, and artistry can turn a lifelong love of handwriting into a thriving creative business, all while inspiring others to pick up a pen and never let the art of beautiful writing fade.
This story is part of NJ Urban News’ Black Business Spotlight, uplifting Black-owned excellence across New Jersey. Know a business we should feature? Email us at editorial@njurbannews.com