Merriment Studio creates humor-infused tools, workshops, and resources that make learning, connection, and everyday life more fun. Whether it’s a workbook, a habit-building journal, or a playful live event, everything here is designed to spark laughter and help you learn skills that stick.
Curious how a psychic, a humor quest, and a coworker’s nickname all came together? Pull up a chair…
How It All Started
On my 50th birthday, my long-time friend Julie, a retired teacher turned psychic, gave me a reading that changed my life’s trajectory:
“Your purpose in life is to make people laugh.”
If you can’t trust a psychic on a milestone birthday, when can you?
At the time, I was a single mom to a teenage daughter, working as a technical writer documenting complex business software. (Not exactly a match for someone who loves to laugh.)
Add to that my mother’s early-stage Alzheimer’s, and I was ready for a major change.
The Quest Begins
Julie took the first leap, signing up for an improv class and inviting me to attend as a guest. I was hooked. Soon, I was taking classes at Toronto’s Second City in improv, sketch writing, and stand-up comedy — and loving every minute.
Somewhere along the way, my coworker Christy, who had a gift for nicknames, dubbed me “The Mistress of Merriment”. That title stuck and eventually became Merriment Studio’s namesake.
Learning That Sticks — With a Smile
I grew up on comedy, with a mom who had a quick wit. Laughter has been my lifelong companion: a coping mechanism, creative outlet, and instant connector.
Alongside running Merriment Studio, I work as an instructional designer, creating engaging learning experiences from soft skills workshops to self-paced online courses. I believe people learn best when they’re engaged, curious, and having fun.
That’s why every Merriment Studio product blends humor with smart, bite-sized learning design — not just to get a laugh, but to make the learning stick.
(Curious about my instructional design work? You can see more here.)
What You’ll Find Here
- Humor Habit–Building Tools – add a little laughter to your daily life
- Sticky Learning Kits – bite-sized educational experiences that stick, click, and get remembered
- Playful Printables & Products – designed to lighten the mood and lift your day
Because learning (and life) should be enjoyable, memorable, and just a little mischievous.
Let’s Stay in Touch
Email me anytime at joy@merrimentstudio.ca (Yes, Joy is my Merriment Studio alter ego.)
Want to add more laughter to your life?
Start with my free 10-Day Humor Habit series and get my Merriment Studio newsletter too.