I am currently unemployed – I got laid off from previous large commercial firm employer. I am working freelance and starting my own business/design blog called “Aja Nicole Design” (Instagram: @AjaNicoleDesign ). I have always dreamed of tackling some small projects such as AirBnB design since my specialty is furniture and hospitality design. Of course I love corporate as well, but residential and hospitality blend so well. Many AirBNB owners want their space to resemble a boutique hotel, and this sweet spot of design is where I think I shine the brightest. I worked on a really amazing project during my time at Gresham Smith called Pilcher Lofts (@PilcherLofts on Instagram), and it really inspired me to do more eclectic residential projects.
As far as routines, as a creative I feel like I need to create to keep my passion for art and design alive. I’ve been crafting, journaling, drawing, etc., and creating spaces/mood boards for imaginary clients with the hope it will stir up the same feelings in others as it does for me. I think everyone would appreciate seeing something beautiful, even if it is not a real space. I listen to some great design podcasts, like Designers Getting Coffee, and that helps me in my quest of entrepreneurship. I also feel very inspired by nature, so I take daily walks and hikes to rejuvenate my mind and spirit. Of course I’m always open to working at a commercial firm again, so right now I’m seeing which places are still hiring and applying to those.
My other outlets are photography and acting. During my nature walks I’ve been photographing interesting things I find in nature, as well as my typical passion for flower photography. My acting class has moved to zoom meetings, but in the meantime I’m working on my own monologues and film reels to be able to keep myself sharp and to continue to create. Acting also really helps me with presentation skills with clients, and to improve my confidence. You learn a lot about yourself by reaching into your past experiences and drawing from emotions you felt then to perform scenes.
As far as advice, I’d say it’s important to know your strengths and to be able to adapt to any situation. This past couple months have dealt a really bad hand to us all. We all are having to play with the cards we have been given. Personally, I’ve had to dig deep to find my sure footing as my foundation was ripped out from under me. My apartment was condemned due to damage from the early March tornadoes in Tennessee, and then I was quarantined and everyone was working from home, and then I got laid off. They say bad things come in threes, so I’m hoping my three good things are just around the corner.
Stay strong everyone – we will get through this!
