Kate's Magic!

 

She briskly walks beneath the canopy of Spanish moss; her sandals slap against her feet. By most accounts she appears to be just another College of Charleston student: crisp, white jeans, gleaming white smile, tan, eyes—which are shaded by ray bans—focused on her blackberry. Her school bag is resting on one shoulder…and on the other? A F3 Nikon professional camera.

For Junior Kate Majike, everything was in place. Her camera, which sometimes feels like her “second shadow” as she so calls it, has become a part of her life. While she may appear to be just another student, Kate is actually one of the few students on campus who owns their own business. 

One of Kate's photographic pieces

During Christmas of 2008, Kate decided to do something creative for her friends and family. Taking photos of lone pine trees blanketed in snow and angelic statues near holly bushes, Kate created a unique line of greeting cards.

By mounting the photos on the front of cream-colored cards and adding some sparkles with glue, Kate created an innovative gift. But, what started out as a simple gift idea, soon turned into a full on business.

With positive feed back from friends and the support of her parents, “KATE’S MAGIC” was founded.

“We were honestly so impressed that this girl had created such beautiful card…and so unique!” Says Iris Macintosh, a family friend. “We wanted to know how we could get more!”

Growing up on Massachusetts Cape Cod, Kate has always had an affinity for water. This love for the coast inspired her first collection, which came out in the summer of 2009. Colorful sailboats, beach balls, images of fishing nets caught on docks, crabs and sea shells were all digitally enhanced to bring out the colors for a fresh summer themed line. 

“KATE’S MAGIC” was first picked up by a small boutique in Andover, Mass. Her cards can now be found in six stores along the East Coast.

“Everyone who comes in the store immediately comments on the cards…and they are even more impressed when they discover that the creator is someone so young.” Says George Madison, owner of “Cards and Things” in South Hampton, NY.

Last May Kate participated in the annual stationary convention, and she received positive feedback from several big buyers.

“I was very nervous, and excited at the same time. I did not really know what I was getting into, but I think that it just kind of hit me that “KATE’S MAGIC” was actually a business that is competitive.” Says Kate. “We were in New York for three days, and it went by so fact.”

The convention helped Kate realize that she could expand her company. She now has a website, and carries paper weights and glassware that display her images. 

While most might make known these accomplishments, Kate is quiet about her recent success. Instead she chooses to let others find out on their own.

“I do not know if this is something I want to turn into a career. It is something I do because I love it.” She explained.

So what does this talented student want to do? As an arts management major, Kate is on track to attend Sotheby’s Graduate school in London. This is something that has been a dream of hers for many years. She has the talent and the drive to make this dream become a reality.

Her talent certainly speaks for itself. This past week she was awarded “best in show” for the young contemporary art competition. With 650 applicants, and only 70 asked to show, her winning proves that she is truly a talent. It also proves that she may one day do something more with her talent than just greeting cards. For now, Kate continues to walk beneath the Spanish moss and be inspired by the beauty of Charleston.