Creativity, community and healing at the heart of Koko Blue Designs

By Shelley Winger
What began as a form of self-care has grown into a thriving creative business for Redwater
entrepreneur Megan Shaw-Grandy, owner of Koko Blue Designs.
With a background in social services, Shaw-Grandy was looking for a way to recharge
emotionally and mentally. She found that outlet through artistic expression. In 2019, she
purchased her first laser engraver and started making personalized items for family and
friends. What began as a hobby quickly gained momentum, and before long she opened an
online store. By 2020, Koko Blue Designs had become her full-time business.
Today, her workshop is home to two CO₂ lasers and a four-by-four-foot CNC machine,
allowing her to work with a wide range of materials including wood, acrylic, leather, suede,
glass and some metals. Her services include laser engraving, etching, cutting and detailed
3D wood carvings. Products range from picture frames and ornaments to custom signs,
business logos, furniture and more.
Part of the appeal for customers is the chance to turn a simple idea into something tangible
and lasting. Shaw-Grandy works closely with clients to personalize designs, whether it’s
incorporating a handwritten note, a meaningful date or a favourite quote. Each piece is
created with careful attention to detail, ensuring it reflects the story behind it as much as
the material it’s made from.
While she enjoys the variety, it’s the deeply personal projects that mean the most.
“My favorite things to create are memorial pieces for those experiencing grief and loss of a
loved one,” Shaw-Grandy said. “Those memorial pieces mean the most to people, and I
really enjoy providing that service to them for their healing journey ahead.”
For those unfamiliar with the technology behind her work, Shaw-Grandy explains that a
laser engraver uses a high-intensity beam of light to burn or vaporize the surface of a
material. Guided by computer software, the laser moves with precision to create
permanent, detailed markings. The same technology can also be used to cut materials. Her
CNC machine, also computer-operated, uses a router bit to carve and cut intricate designs
into wood.

Since moving to Redwater in 2021, Shaw-Grandy has built strong ties within the
community. Koko Blue Designs has created custom items for local sports teams, businesses
and public schools, and regularly donates pieces to fundraisers. Supporting local events and
causes is something she sees as an important part of running a small business.
“I think people really enjoy having a local business that can provide a wide range of custom
displays, meaningful gifts and memorabilia,” she said. “But also to have a small business
here that supports and gives back to the community as well. Community is everything.”

That connection to community is reflected in the steady stream of repeat customers and
word-of-mouth referrals. Many clients return for milestone moments — weddings,
anniversaries, graduations and retirements — trusting Shaw-Grandy to help mark life’s
important chapters with something personal and handcrafted.
Looking ahead, Shaw-Grandy is excited to expand the use of her newest piece of equipment
— the large CNC machine. She’s been exploring more 3D carving projects, allowing her to
create larger and more detailed wooden pieces.
“It’s still a learning curve,” she said, “but it has been a wonderful addition to our workshop
so far.”
With a blend of craftsmanship, compassion and community spirit, Koko Blue Designs
continues to leave a lasting mark — both on the materials Shaw-Grandy works with and the
people who receive her creations.