| THE EPISTOLARIAN |
When I delve into the etymology of common words, I'm often astonished by how their meanings have shifted over time. Take the word "amateur," for instance. Today, we equate amateurs with beginners, novices—people unworthy of our praise. At best, they're seen as hobbyists; at worst, as inept or incompetent.
But did you know that "amateur" originally meant something entirely different? The word stems from the Latin "amator," which means "lover," derived from "amare," meaning "to love." When it first appeared in French in the late 18th century, it retained this sense: a person who engages in an activity out of love. To be an amateur is to love what you do.
The term evolved to denote someone who pursues an art or skill for the joy and passion it brings, rather than for financial gain or formal recognition. People who weren't paid for their labor, in turn, came to be seen as less skilled.
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What if, though, we reclaimed "amateur" in both its meanings? What if we were willing to be amateurs in the modern sense—new, fresh, and learning—but also, more importantly, in the original sense: people who love what they do?
Imagine how this would reshape our conversations about art and craft. To say we are amateurs would no longer imply a lack of skill but a marker of our passion. I may be an expert seal maker, but I’m also an amateur. I love this art, and I love seeing others experience its magic as well.
Would you like to be an amateur with me?
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Welcome to the team, Quinn!
For me, being an artist and building a business can coexist, and I strive to create that sense of space, ease, and flow as I build my dream of Kathryn Hastings & Co. I’ve recognized the need for help for a while and have finally taken the leap to hire a virtual assistant. 🎉
I am thrilled to introduce Quinn Villahermosa, the very first team member joining Kathryn Hastings & Co. Quinn (prounced 'Kin') is an expert in marketing and design and is already making a significant impact behind the scenes. With Quinn's support in managing our website and project management, I can devote more time to fulfilling orders, writing, and designing the next chapter of our journey.
Quinn shares my passion for inspiring the world to write more beautiful letters and our commitment to creating luxury heirloom wax seals that people will treasure for generations. Together, we're excited to continue building a brand that celebrates the art of letter writing and the elegance of timeless craftsmanship. Welcome to the team, Quinn! 🥳
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More About QuinnFavorite Artist: Salvador Dali Quinn is managing the support email for me, and can be reached at any time! Support@KathrynHastingsCo.Com |
On the Pod
In case you missed them, here are the three most recent episodes from the 1 Sealed Letter Podcast, which explores the legacy of letter writing, and often the lives of notable people through their correspondence.
Be sure to subscribe to the podcast, tell your friends and leave a 5 star review!
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Wax Seal Series - How I got startedWithin the podcast, I've started a new series of episodes dedicated to wax seals. In this episode, I share my journey with wax seals, including how I began collecting, how I discovered antiques and some advice for fellow collectors. Listen here. |
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Kurt Gerron: Letters from the ShadowsNapoleon’s passionate love letter to Joséphinewe delve into the passionate romance between Napoleon Bonaparte and Joséphine de Beauharnais through one of their most intimate correspondences: a love letter from December 1795. This letter, written during the early stages of their courtship, offers a glimpse into Napoleon's deep affection and longing for Joséphine. Join us as we uncover the enduring legacy of one of history's most famous couples through the timeless words of their love letter. Listen here. |
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Wax Seal Series - How do you spot a fake?Big thank you to Irina (@LetterAndPressCo) for today’s question. In this episode, I give advice on how to spot a fake antique wax seal, and avoid sellers who sell replicas. As this is a very hot topic in the community, I haven’t included any names, but I did share about the defunct business who initially sold me fake antiques a few years ago, and what the experience taught me. Listen here. |
Back in Stock - Death Blowing Bubbles
This fan favorite is back in stock, but I only have 9 of them. Last time, the Death Blowing Bubbles Seal sold out quickly last time; so be sure to order yours today if you'd like one.
| Yes, I want one! |
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This wax seal captures Death in a whimsical moment, blowing bubbles that dance through the air in a beautiful, fleeting display. It prompts reflection on the cycle of life, death, and rebirth.
Inspired by Johann Georg Laimberger's 1730s stucco art in the Church of St. Michael in Bamberg, Germany, this seal echoes his portrayal of mortality. Laimberger's depiction of Death blowing bubbles, holding a shell and pipe, particularly caught my attention as a favorite, subtly reminding us of life's impermanence.
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Getting Halloween Ready (Already?)
Yes! If you're wanting to send Halloween mail with custom peel-and-stick seals from my antique collection, it's the perfect time to order. This will give me time to make seals for you so you have them well in advance for all of your special fall correspondence. Here are my favorite fall seals.
| See Full Halloween Collection |
Featured Wax Color : Lucky Red
This exquisite wax, in a vibrant and striking red, is designed to make a bold statement on any letter. For centuries, the color red has symbolized good luck, prosperity, and happiness across various cultures. Lucky Red is a magnet for positive energy, making it the perfect choice for those seeking to infuse their correspondence with a touch of fortune and joy.
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Toujours errante, Jamais infidéle
The wax seal inscribed with "Toujours errante, jamais infidéle" and a sparrow conveys a rich blend of symbolism. This French phrase, meaning "Always wandering, never unfaithful," captures the balance of freedom and loyalty.
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Sparrows are known to mate for life, embodying steadfast loyalty and commitment. Additionally, they hold a special place in maritime tradition. Sailors often received sparrow tattoos before going out to sea, believing that, like swallows, sparrows always come home. One sparrow tattoo signifies 5,000 miles sailed, while two represent 10,000 miles. Swallows on a sailor’s chest were believed to lift their soul to heaven if they perished at sea.
This seal is perfect for those who embrace adventure yet remain devoted to their loved ones. It adds a touch of elegance and profound meaning to letters, turning them into symbols of the sender's wandering spirit and unwavering fidelity.
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Order Now!
The most important course I've created is now available for pre-order.
| Order Now |
In this course, you'll learn the art of wax marbling to create stunning, unique patterns, gain proficiency in weaving wax strips for added depth and elegance, and explore UV paints for extraordinary designs that glow under UV light. You'll also delve into the use of bold pigments and embedding figures, pearls, and stones to add layers and depth to your wax seals. The course features self-paced learning, comprehensive modules with detailed instructions, and exclusive access to Kathryn Hastings' personal techniques.
With love,