Meet Megan Walker | Custom Signage Designer & Engraver

We had the good fortune of connecting with Megan Walker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Megan, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
Winston Churchill’s words, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts,” really strike a chord with me and the journey I’ve embarked on with Arch Theory Displays. In the realm of small business, especially in a field as dynamic and competitive as custom displays, these words serve as a powerful reminder of the true nature of entrepreneurship.

Success, to me, isn’t an endpoint but a moment to celebrate and build upon. And failures, though they can sting, aren’t the end. Instead, they’re lessons in disguise, opportunities to learn, grow, and come back stronger. It’s this resilience, the courage to stand up after a fall and push forward, that defines my approach to running Arch Theory Displays.

Each challenge I face—be it a design hurdle, a material issue, or adapting to market changes—is a chance to innovate and stretch the limits of creativity. It’s about keeping an eye on the future, staying adaptable, and never losing faith in the vision I have for my business and the impact it can make.

In embracing this mindset, I’ve cultivated a resilience that permeates every aspect of Arch Theory Displays. It encourages me to tackle problems head-on, strive for excellence, and remember that growth is part of the journey. This philosophy is a reminder that the path to achieving my dreams is paved with perseverance, and success is measured by the courage to continue, no matter what.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Diving into the heart of my art, I find myself on a journey that’s as unique as the pieces I create. My path began with acrylic paint and canvas, exploring the realms of acrylic pour painting and resin art, where each piece was an expression of my inner world. However, life, with its unexpected twists, guided me toward a new medium that would redefine my artistic expression: laser engraving.

What sets me apart is not just the transition from traditional art forms to embracing the precision and versatility of laser engraving but how I’ve infused my personal touch and creativity into each design. My art now lies in crafting custom business signs, with a special focus on QR code signs that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal. These aren’t just signs; they’re gateways to the digital presence of a business, designed with a narrative and style that reflects the unique identity of each client.

I’m most proud of how this pivot in my career has allowed me to connect with businesses on a deeper level, offering them a piece of art that serves both practicality and brand enhancement. The journey to this point wasn’t easy. An elbow injury forced me to step away from the mediums I loved and was familiar with, pushing me into uncharted territory. It was in this moment of vulnerability that the community within the Rustic & Modern Collective stepped in, offering encouragement and support that sparked the idea to venture into laser engraving.

The transition was fraught with challenges—from mastering a new skill set to redefining my artistic identity. However, each obstacle was a lesson in resilience, adaptability, and the power of community. I learned the importance of being open to change, the strength found in seeking support, and the beauty of evolving one’s craft.

Through this journey, I’ve realized that my art is not defined by the medium but by the passion and intention I bring to my work. My brand story is one of transformation, creativity, and connection. It’s a testament to the idea that when one door closes, another opens—if you’re willing to step through it.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that we embody the spirit of innovation and the resilience of the human heart. Arch Theory Displays stands as a beacon for businesses looking to express their uniqueness in a digital age, offering them not just a product but a piece of art that tells their story.

This journey has taught me that the path to where you want to be isn’t always straight or easy, but with perseverance, adaptability, and a supportive community, it’s always possible. My story is a celebration of the new roads discovered when we dare to navigate the challenges life throws our way.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Oh, if my best friend were visiting, I’d be thrilled to showcase the vibrant pulse of downtown Upland, especially on a bustling Saturday! It’s the perfect blend of community spirit and the thrill of discovery, with its craft fair and farmers market bringing the streets to life. Here’s how we’d make the most of it:

Morning Boost at Lucky’s Coffee Roasters: We’d kick off our day at Lucky’s Coffee Roasters. Their coffee? A masterpiece in a cup. It’s the perfect spot to fuel up with a meticulously crafted latte or a robust black coffee, setting the tone for a day of exploration.

Discovering Treasures: Next, we’d dive into the heart of downtown Upland’s growing array of shops. The Rustic & Modern Collective would be our first stop; it’s a haven for anyone who loves unique finds and supports the ethos of female-owned small businesses. Here, I’d share stories of my journey and the incredible community that’s flourished within its walls. A hop away is their sister shop, Lemon Drop, offering more trendy giffts and goods.

Lunch at Allegro: By lunchtime, we’d be ready to indulge in some culinary delights at Allegro. Known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious lunch specials, it’s the perfect spot to recharge and relish in the flavors that make downtown Upland a foodie’s delight.

Afternoon Sips at Rescue Brewery: As the afternoon unwinds, we’d make our way to Rescue Brewery for a drink. It’s not just about the refreshing beverages; it’s about the story behind each brew, the community it supports, and the friendly faces that make every visit memorable.

Sweet Finale at Cookies N Pints: No day is complete without a touch of sweetness, and Cookies N Pints is our final stop. Their cookies and ice cream are not just desserts; they’re a celebration of flavor, creativity, and the joy of sharing good food with great friends.

In my view, downtown Upland’s charm lies in its ability to blend the warmth of small-town community with the excitement of new ventures and discoveries. From the buzz of the craft fair and farmers market to the personal stories behind each local business, it’s a place where every visit holds the promise of new memories. It’s this blend of fun, interest, and excitement, underscored by the passionate people who call this place home, that I can’t wait to share with my best friend.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
When I reflect on my journey and the evolution of my craft, especially through the significant shift from painting and resin art to laser engraving, there’s a powerful sense of community and support that has been pivotal to my growth and success. Without hesitation, my shoutout goes to the incredible collective of the Rustic & Modern Collective—a boutique of female-owned small businesses where I rent space.

Transitioning to laser engraving was not initially by choice but a necessity due to an elbow injury. It was a challenging period, not just physically but also creatively and emotionally. However, it was within the nurturing environment of the Rustic & Modern Collective that I found not just solace but inspiration. The collective, a vibrant community of creative and resilient women, encouraged me to explore new avenues to express my creativity. It was here, amidst this supportive network, that I was introduced to the idea of making QR code signs.

What began as a tentative step into unfamiliar territory quickly grew into a passionate endeavor, thanks largely to the encouragement, feedback, and word-of-mouth promotion from the collective and our local community. The transition to laser engraving opened up a new world of possibilities, allowing me to blend technical precision with artistic expression in ways I hadn’t imagined before.

The Rustic & Modern Collective has been more than just a physical space for my business; it has been a source of inspiration, a sounding board for ideas, and a foundation of support through every challenge and victory. The sense of camaraderie and mutual encouragement among this group of female entrepreneurs has been nothing short of transformative.

So, to the Rustic & Modern Collective and every incredible woman within this community: thank you. Your belief in my potential, your unwavering support, and your encouragement to innovate and grow have been instrumental in my journey. This shoutout is a testament to the strength of community and the boundless possibilities that come from supporting one another in our creative and entrepreneurial endeavors. Here’s to more collaboration, growth, and success together!

Website: www.archtheorydisplays.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/archtheorydisplays