About Make it Happen

Encouraged by her family’s heritage in the trade, Michelle grew up immersed in the world of signwriting, covering everything from traditional sign-painting to engraving to fabrication and even vehicle wrapping, ultimately becoming an award-winning professional. Throughout her career, she has had the privilege of working with prestigious brands like Yell, Beiersdorf (Nivea), and Ted Baker.

In 2010, Michelle took the bold step of launching her own sign company, and in 2022, she relocated to New Zealand to join a company that aligns with her values and creative vision.

Along the way, Michelle has discovered that one of her greatest passions lies in training and mentoring the next generation of signwriters. She believes that investing in training is key to not only preserving the traditional skills of the trade but also pushing the sign and print industry forward.

What truly sets Michelle apart is her ability to blend the artistry of signwriting with the technical expertise needed to execute complex projects and wayfinding. Drawing from four generations of family knowledge, she is dedicated to sharing her skills and empowering others to thrive.

Sam Armstrong is Founder and CEO of Make it Happen. Sam has over 20 years experience and is well regarded for being a true champion for the sign and print industry. She is passionate about providing training and support to enhance and develop skill sets at every level.

Sam’s energy is contagious and her workshops never fail to deliver both on sound commercial content and entertainment – even signage veterans claim to leave with a new spring in their step and with some added strings to their bow!

Her contribution to the industry was recognised in 2021 when Sam became President of the UK International Signage Association and in 2023 as Award Winner, ‘Industry Champion’ at the UK Sign Awards.

Sam makes it happen… with her knowledge, infectious enthusiasm, flair for entertaining, organisation and her passion to encourage improvement generally within the sign and print industry.

Katie Asken is the Chief Operating Officer of Make it Happen. Katie is a customer service ninja and is highly skilled in the art of managing our day-to-day operation; she is the queen of seamless workflows and order processing.

Many of the businesses that we support with products sales see Katie as their secret weapon. Her practical signage advice and hand-holding approach are what keep people coming back to us again and again. Katie can be a life-saver, taking the pressure off you when you need help, sourcing products and giving you piece of mind.

Katie has been with Make it Happen since the very early days. In recognition of her brilliance and contributions to Make it Happen, Katie was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 2022 and in addition to her product sales role, plays an integral part in shaping the direction of the business.

Katie makes it happen… with her passion for making sure our customers have the best possible experience. She is never shy about picking up the phone to ask you a question (no long email essays in sight!).

Zoe brings with her over 22 years of trade print and sign experience.

We were delighted to welcome back Zoe in February 2023 to support Katie in the continued growth of our the product sales element of our business. As a former member of the Make it Happen team, Zoe is already well versed in our customer service standards and is well known to many of our clients and partners.

Zoe’s attention to detail and solid work ethics, combined with Katie’s support, will help Make it Happen ensure that we maintain the same award-winning service as the business continues to grow.​

Zoe makes it happen… with her fantastic personality and passion for getting things right first-time. She is knowledgeable, engaging and supportive – a godsend!