Hi friends,
This week on The Founders Society Podcast, we turned the spotlight on Meg for an exclusive origin story episode. In this candid conversation, Meg shows the audience that no one can write your story but you.
If you’ve ever wondered how Meg built her career, what drives her creativity, or how she balances it all, this episode is a must-listen.
It wouldn’t be a true origin episode without diving into the moments that shaped Meg into the inspiring entrepreneur she is today. Here are some highlights from her journey:
A Creative Start
Meg’s passion for art and storytelling began early, nurtured by a supportive family that encouraged her creativity and adventurous spirit. Her time at Georgia Tech provided a strong foundation in business and entrepreneurship, which was further refined through experiences such as a social entrepreneurship internship in Hungary, and a perspective-shifting summer working on a farm in Washington State.
Becoming a Full Time Artist
Meg’s first foray into entrepreneurship began with Painted Parcels, her art business that started with a simple watercolor painting of Georgia Tech’s iconic Ramblin’ Wreck. The piece was inspired by a deeply meaningful encounter with a 90-year-old Tech graduate, and it quickly became the catalyst for Meg’s first online shop.
After graduation, she spent six months in a corporate job at a Big Four company before experiencing a defining moment—an artist’s calling paired with a phone call home. The opening of an art studio at The Goat Farm in Atlanta marked the moment Meg truly embraced her identity as an artist, and with it, a bold new vision for her creative future.
The Reverie: Fostering Community
Recognizing the power of community, Meg opened The Reverie, a shared studio space for female creatives. Over the course of their two-year lease, Meg supported 32 female business owners within the studio, while also strengthening the wider community through seasonal markets, gatherings, and photoshoots in the 3,600 sq/ft warehouse in South Atlanta.
The friendships she formed and the invaluable lessons she learned about leadership and trusting her inner calling will always remain close to her heart.
New York City: A Catalyst for Growth
Meg’s move to New York City marked a pivotal moment in both her personal and professional life. Immersed in a vibrant community of dynamic colleagues, she found herself at the heart of transformative collaborations that would shape her career.
It was in this electric environment that she collaborated with clothing designer, Meghan Kinney, on her SS24 Collection and also created the Magnolia collection, a bestselling body of work that became a defining signature of her style. The city’s unparalleled energy and entrepreneurial spirit ignited her creativity, pushing the boundaries of her artistry and enriching her ability to tell compelling stories.
Lessons from Meg’s Journey
Woven throughout Meg's journey are moments of profound insight—lessons that not only illuminate her path but offer timeless guidance for anyone navigating their own creative and entrepreneurial journey.
Take the Road Less Traveled: There are times when your instincts will urge you to step away from the conventional path. Meg's story reminds us that when you feel a pull, however unconventional, it’s worth trusting your gut and embracing the unexpected. The most fulfilling journeys often lie off the beaten track.
Keep Good Company: Success is rarely a solo endeavor. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. As Meg's experience shows, we naturally align with the energy of those around us, setting the pace for our own progress. The road ahead may be long, but it’s much more rewarding when traveled with like-minded companions who share your drive and vision.
Believe in Something Greater: Whether it’s faith, a higher purpose, or a mission beyond yourself, there’s undeniable power in looking outside of your own ambitions. Meg’s evolution as both an artist and entrepreneur reflects the importance of grounding your work in something larger than your personal goals. In the noise and hustle of building a business, the ability to return to a source of peace and daily encouragement is not just valuable—it’s essential for sustaining both your spirit and your enterprise.
What’s Next for Meg
This year, Meg is prioritizing depth over breadth—dedicating her energy to nurturing The Founders Society and deepening her art practice. At the same time, she's exploring new horizons, from brand collaborations across the Southeast to exciting product developments that promise to push her creative boundaries.
Stay connected to her evolving journey and follow along on Instagram for a closer look at the work and inspiration fueling her next chapter. We hope this episode inspires you to reflect on your own journey—where you’ve been, what you’ve learned, and what’s next for you.
Listen to the full episode and join us on this inspiring journey.
Warmly,
Meg & Hayley