I have been thinking about this nomination a lot, and honestly, whether Merakology wins or not, I already feel incredibly grateful.
To be nominated for Best of Pretoria 2026 in the Best Branding & Signage Company category means that someone thought of Merakology. Someone took the time to put our name forward. Someone believed this small, founder-led business deserved to be there.
That alone means more than I can explain.
Merakology is a business, but there is also a real person behind the brand.
A person who cares deeply about the final result.
A person who answers the messages, checks the artwork, follows up with suppliers, plans the details, handles the pressure, celebrates the wins and quietly carries the harder days too.
I am human. I learn, I grow and I am always working to improve, but one thing has never changed: I care deeply about this business, my clients and the work that leaves Merakology.
This business was built through years of late nights, problem-solving, school runs, client deadlines, small orders, big projects, loyal support and a lot of heart.
Over time, Merakology has also become a space for collaboration. I have had the privilege of working with individuals, businesses and other service providers on projects where my role is not only to print, but to guide, consult and help make branding decisions clearer before production starts.
From brand identity and artwork direction to print methods, materials, placement and final presentation, I truly value being able to help bring ideas together in a way that feels clear, considered and professional.
It has never just been about printing items.
For me, clear, consistent and considered branding means every detail is thought through before production, from the product and print method to placement, colour, use and final presentation. At Merakology Creative Studio, I help clients make better branding decisions, not just print items.
So this nomination feels like more than an award category.
And in my heart, this milestone is also for my mom, who is deeply missed and carried with me in every step forward.
It feels like a reminder that local support matters.
That relationships matter.
That collaboration matters.
That showing up with care matters.
That small businesses can still make a meaningful impact.
To every client, friend, family member, school, business, collaborator and supporter who has trusted Merakology, referred us, shared a post, placed an order or voted, thank you!
You have already helped Merakology get this far.
If you would still like to support Merakology in the Best of Pretoria 2026 awards, voting is open and Merakology Creative Studio is listed under Best Branding & Signage Company.
Your vote, share or kind recommendation would mean so much to me and to this small, founder-led business.
I am truly grateful for every bit of support, whether you have voted, shared the post, sent a message, referred someone or simply cheered Merakology on from the side.
Voting closes on 7 August 2026, so every vote before then is deeply appreciated.
Thank you for helping Merakology get this far.
With gratitude,
Jolene
#BestOfPretoria#SupportLocal#Merakology#mompreneur
