By: Pam Perry PR
For more than 27 years, Carolyn Walker has been a driving force behind Great Impressions, a Milwaukee-based, full-service printing and graphics company built on faith, family, and determination. What began in the basement of her home as a bold step has grown into a respected brand serving businesses, families, and organizations with everything from funeral programs and business cards to custom apparel and promotional products.
Walker’s journey into entrepreneurship was fueled by love, specifically, her love for her children. After spending more than a decade in the printing industry, she sought the flexibility and presence that traditional 9-to-5s didn’t offer.
“I started this business because I wanted to be there for my kids,” Walker said. “I believed I had the skills and the drive. I just needed to take the leap.”
That leap led to long nights, makeshift workspaces, and a steadfast commitment to building a business that mattered, not just for her family but for her community. In the early days, she wore every hat: designer, customer service rep, delivery driver, and bookkeeper. It was exhausting, but rewarding.
One defining moment came in 1999, when Walker landed her first major project: a 300-page Debutante Cotillion Book for the local chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. With no printer onsite and limited resources, Walker recruited help from friends and made late-night trips to Kinko’s.
“We worked until 1 or 2 a.m. every night,” she recalled. “But we delivered—and the clients were thrilled. That moment reinforced my confidence. I knew I was on the right path.”
Growing a Business with Perseverance and Heart
Over the past two decades, Great Impressions has evolved into more than just a print shop. It’s both a creative hub and a community partner. Walker’s personal touch and eye for detail help distinguish her work in an industry that’s increasingly automated.
“Every project matters,” she said. “Whether it’s a memorial program or a graduation banner, we treat it with care because we understand how much it means to our clients.”
Walker has navigated her fair share of obstacles along the way. Access to capital was a significant hurdle in the early years, and hiring the right team has remained an ongoing challenge. The pandemic tested her resilience and faith like never before, forcing her to pivot quickly and offer essential printing services when many clients hit pause.
“I learned how to adapt under pressure,” she said. “We had to shift our messaging, prioritize what people needed most, and stay connected to the community.”
That community focus hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2022, Walker was awarded the Fiserv Back2Business grant, receiving $10,000 and a custom Milwaukee Bucks jersey emblazoned with “Great Impressions” on the back.
“That jersey is hanging proudly in our production area,” she said. “It reminds me that this work has an impact.”
Walker also takes pride in being a certified union printer—a distinction that reflects her commitment to fair labor standards and quality service. Her company has been recognized by the Milwaukee Black Firefighters, the Governor’s Conference on Minority Business Development, and local organizations such as HeartLove Place and the Milwaukee Community Journal.
A Family Legacy Taking Shape
One of Walker’s proudest moments came when her son, Ray, officially joined the business.
“Seeing him step into this work and bring his own vision to the table—it’s deeply meaningful,” she said. “This isn’t just about me anymore. It’s about legacy.”
Together, they’ve expanded Great Impressions’ offerings to include branded promotional products, large-format banners, custom t-shirts, and corporate signage. Clients rely on the company not just for their product needs, but for reliability, consistency, and thoughtful guidance.
“People know they can trust us to get it right, to listen, and to care,” Walker said. “We’re not transactional—we aim to make a meaningful difference.”
Whether she’s creating a set of business cards for a new entrepreneur or printing memorial programs for grieving families, Walker brings the same level of commitment to every job. It’s this personalized approach that has kept clients coming back for nearly three decades.
Looking Ahead with Vision
As Great Impressions continues to grow, Walker hopes to expand into new markets across the Midwest, establish strategic partnerships, and invest in the latest technology to streamline operations and improve turnaround times.
“I want Great Impressions to be more than a printing company,” she said. “I want it to stand for what’s possible when you lead with purpose, faith, and a commitment to serve.”
Part of her vision also includes mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and empowering other women business owners, especially those who, like her, are balancing ambition with family life.
“Starting this business changed my life,” she said. “And I hope to help others do the same.”
More Than Just Ink on Paper
What truly sets Great Impressions apart is Walker’s belief that print has the power to connect, uplift, and preserve legacy. “Every print job is someone’s story,” she said. “We strive to honor that.”
From nonprofit leaders and school administrators to small business owners and event organizers, Great Impressions continues to serve as a trusted, creative partner that helps others shine.
“Printing is the vehicle,” Walker said. “But service—that’s the heart of what we do.”
For more information on Great Impressions or to get a quote, visit: www.greatimpress.com
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Published by Jeremy S.
