I’m always thinking about how someone will experience it from beginning to end and how I can make that experience more thoughtful.
Bernice Ma's (BA '15, MDEI '18) path to becoming a stationery business owner wasn’t originally what she had planned. After completing her undergraduate degree, she discovered an interest in web and digital design during her co-op terms. This led her to the Master of Digital Experience Innovation (MDEI) program, where she set out to build a career in digital design and user experience. When she did not immediately find herself in the role she had envisioned at first, she created that opportunity for herself. Ma is the founder of Made of Honour Co., a business specializing in wax seals and custom stamps. Most recently, she is also the co-founder of Paper Marché, a community-focused retail and creative space for Canadian artists.
“Through building Made of Honour Co. and, more recently, Paper Marché, I’ve been able to apply what I learned in the program every day, from branding and user experience to community-building and digital storytelling,” she shared.
During her time at MDEI, Bernice strengthened her understanding of how technology shapes the way people interact with the world. One of the most impactful concepts for her was user journey mapping, which changed her perspective on how she approaches design and user experiences.
“What stood out to me was how it visualized empathy, understanding how people move through a process, the decisions they make and the emotions they may feel along the way,” she explains. “Whether I’m designing a website, developing a product, or creating an in-person experience, I’m always thinking about how someone will experience it from beginning to end and how I can make that experience more thoughtful and meaningful.”
Her perspective on storytelling was also shaped through coursework and challenged her to think more critically about media and narrative in design. This sparked an interest in interactive, choose-your-own-adventure-style storytelling, where audiences play a more active role in shaping outcomes. She now brings that approach to her businesses by creating products and experiences that encourage exploration, creativity and personal expression rather than a one-size-fits-all experience.
Bernice talks about how her ability to connect design, technology and business strategy was an important part of her growth as an entrepreneur. This mindset has helped her make intentional decisions, identify opportunities and better understand what her community wants.
“Many of the products and services I’ve developed came from identifying gaps, listening to customers, and designing experiences that feel thoughtful, accessible and meaningful,” she notes.
Beyond the classroom, Bernice also found inspiration through opportunities like the BLEND Conference, where she found connections with others in the design community, and learned from industry professionals.
One of the most significant decisions in her journey came this year with the opening of Paper Marché. Designed as a space to highlight local and Canadian artists, the store has expanded her work beyond e-commerce, into in-person experiences.
“I’ve been able to host wax seal workshops, collaborate with artists and build a creative community in a way that feels very personal and rewarding,” she says. “Seeing people gather, create and connect within the space has been one of the most fulfilling parts of this journey.”
Since graduating, Ma has continued to grow both personally and professionally. That growth has led to opportunities she did not expect, including working with Etsy and appearing on CTV to speak about her work and her journey.
Looking back, Bernice is most proud of the communities she has built and the ability to create meaningful experiences that reflect what she loves. As she continues to expand her work, we look forward to seeing what she builds next!