Today we’d like to introduce you to Tess Kostielney.
Hi Tess, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
TK Design started forming in my mind long before it became official. Before my husband and I got married, he would often remind me that I had more to offer than just what I was doing day to day, and he encouraged me to consider building something of my own. After we got married, I started taking that idea more seriously and began doing the work behind the scenes to turn TK Design into a real business.
Throughout my professional career, I found myself being leaned on for creative and digital projects — websites, design updates, flyers, business cards, social media graphics, and other pieces that helped businesses present themselves more professionally. Over time, I learned more, gained confidence, and realized how much I genuinely enjoyed that work.
What really inspired me was seeing so many unique small businesses with incredible products or services, but little to no presence in the digital world. I would come across businesses that deserved to be seen by more people and think, “How many customers are missing out simply because they can’t easily find them online?” That became a big part of the heart behind TK Design.
I started TK Design to help small business owners show up confidently. My goal is to create websites and visual branding pieces that not only look good, but also help people understand who a business is, what they offer, and why they should trust them. More than anything, I want TK Design to be known for taking care of clients and giving them something they are genuinely proud to share.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a really meaningful journey so far. One of the biggest growth points for me was taking the leap of faith to officially start TK Design and put my work out into the world. I knew I was capable and passionate about helping businesses, but stepping forward publicly and saying, “This is what I do, and I believe in the value I bring,” was a powerful moment.
Like many new businesses, building visibility and connecting with the right clients takes time. I see that as part of the process, though. Every conversation, every project, and every step forward has helped me become more confident in the impact TK Design can have. When you care deeply about the quality of your work and the experience people have with you, you want to make sure you are showing up in a way that feels thoughtful and intentional.
TK Design has taught me a lot about confidence and trusting the process. I have always been disciplined, but this journey has helped me build the confidence to match that discipline. I have learned that perseverance is what moves you toward your goals, and that there is value in every stage of building something meaningful. Looking back, I am grateful for both the challenging moments and the exciting ones because they have shaped the business and strengthened my purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
TK Design is a website design and visual brand support business created to help small businesses show up online with confidence and professionalism. I specialize in custom website design, website refreshes, business cards, flyers, social media graphics, Google Business support, and ongoing website updates.
What I love most is working with business owners who are excellent at what they do, but may feel overwhelmed when it comes to presenting their business online. Many small businesses have an incredible product or service, but their website or branding does not always reflect the quality of their work. TK Design helps bridge that gap.
What sets TK Design apart is the level of care, strategy, and attention that goes into each project. I look at every business from both the owner’s perspective and the client’s perspective. A website should look beautiful, but it should also be clear, easy to navigate, and built with the client’s goals in mind.
What I am most proud of brand-wise is the care behind TK Design. I am very thoughtful and meticulous in my work, and I care deeply about the details, the strategy, the customer experience, and the way a business feels when someone first discovers it. My goal is not just to create something that looks nice, but to represent the heart, professionalism, and hard work behind each business. After working with TK Design, I want clients to feel proud of how well their business is presented.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
One of my favorite childhood memories is growing up around horses and competing. I remember the early mornings, long days, and the routine of making sure my horse was cared for before anything else. At a young age, that world taught me discipline, responsibility, independence, and work ethic in a way that has stayed with me my entire life.
Horses also taught me how to stay committed, solve problems, and keep going even when things were difficult. You learn very quickly that success does not come from quitting when something gets hard — it comes from showing up consistently and doing the work.
Looking back, I believe that season of my life helped shape who I am today. It made me detail-oriented, hardworking, observant, and determined. Those same qualities now show up in the way I run TK Design and the level of care I bring to my clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tkdesignco.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tkdesign_ca/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TKDesignWebsites#
Image Credits
Glotia Brigantino Photography
