What inspired you to start this business? Was there a personal experience that sparked the idea?
The idea for everyone to be able to grow, stop gate keeping services and building a more diverse creative Industry!
Can you share a bit about your own background? Were you a creative yourself before stepping into this role?
I’m still a freelance Illustrator but initially studied fashion design and worked as a textile designer and stylist before.
What is the core mission of your business? What impact do you hope to make for creatives?
Many creatives want to get into an agency to receive help for negotiation, with contracts, business & creative development as well as finding clients but for diverse reasons they can’t get in. We want to close the service gap and offer these services without having a roster so everyone feels supported, confident and can grow within their practice without worrying about unnecessary things.
Basically a non exclusive agency that supports creatives with their needs. Over time we would like to build a directory and also offer brand collaboration, curation and many other things!
Why do you believe so many creatives struggle with the business side of things?
It’s a lot to juggle in the beginning or if you are working on many projects simultaneously. Working as a creative can mean a million different things and can be terrifying at moments. Also we struggle a lot with not believing in ourselves and our craft. Many are raised to believe that being creative is just a hobby and therefor shouldn’t be paid well but this is of course absolutely wrong for many many reason.
Is there a particular moment or success story that made you feel, “Yes, this is why I do this”?
Recently I mentored around 40 people in a program for Illustrators and there were so many aha moments for everyone and absolutely loved the atmosphere and what we accomplished together in just an hour and a half. In that moment I knew I wanted to help others and support wherever I can.
What are the most common struggles creatives face when it comes to negotiation?
Recognize self worth and what their craft actually does for clients as well as insecurity about prices and a client potentially walking away.
How do you approach portfolio reviews? What are key things creatives often overlook?
Often the question should be more about who you are as an artist and where you want to go instead of always thinking about what would the client want to see. Of course this is also important but I think a strong portfolio that spreads your ideas, vibe and aesthetic clearly does a lot more for you than a couple picture combined that someone thought might be helpful for getting clients.
What’s a small but powerful business habit every creative should develop?
We should all train to work through rejection and make it an easy transition instead of killing our confidence and creative sparks with it. This unfortunately happens a lot and I think it’s quite a skill to just put rejection to the side and not let it affect you!
Have you noticed any industry trends that creatives should be paying more attention to? How has your business evolved since you started? Have there been any unexpected shifts?
Personally I’m more interested in work that was created traditionally at the moment again after 5 years of almost working digitally but also I think it’s now more important than ever to just do what you are envisioning instead of creating for Socials. I know we are still pretty reliable on the apps but secretly we are also all bored and tired of another reel about the same thing, just because it performs well. For myself there have been many unexpected shifts and some evolutions. As an artist myself I tend to overwork myself and with it – pushing myself into a creative crisis about every 3-4 years where I feel like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly again and again. It’s a painful progress but also beautiful. It comes with lots of challenges but apparently it’s necessary for me to light my creative fire and feel excited again!
What’s one myth about creative business that you wish you could debunk?
In interviews I often get asked questions such as: “So you just get up sometime at noon, get kissed by a muse and start doing some paintings, when you are feeling like it? It’s so far from reality! As creatives we are super hard workers, especially coming from a working class background we hustle to make this career possible. It’s basically 6 full-time jobs squeezed in one.
How do you hope to expand your impact?
We hope to expand our impact by giving creatives the freedom to focus on what they do best—creating—while we take care of the operational, administrative, and strategic tasks that can be overwhelming. By fostering stronger connections within the creative industry and amplifying opportunities, we aim to build a more supportive, sustainable space for artists and creators to thrive. Whether through ongoing support, tailored strategy packages, or emergency counseling sessions, we’re here to lighten the load so creativity can flourish
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to creatives who feel lost in the business side of things?
Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone. The business side of creativity can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into small, manageable steps makes a huge difference. Start by getting clear on your priorities—whether it’s pricing, contracts, or marketing—and tackle one thing at a time. And don’t be afraid to ask for help! Seeking guidance, outsourcing tasks, or leaning on a community of creatives can free up your energy so you can focus on what you do best—creating.
How can people best connect with you and take advantage of the resources you offer?
Reach out either through email or on socials also feel free to check out our blog and resource list we are working on constantly!
If your business had a motto (or personal mantra), what would it be?
Nothing is impossible!
How would your friends describe you in three words? And how would your clients describe you?
My friends would probably say I’m thoughtful, adventurous, and a little stubborn (in the best way 😉). My clients might describe me as creative, dedicated, and easy to work with. Hopefully, both would agree that I put my heart into everything I do!
What’s a quirky or unexpected skill you have that helps you in your work?
A quirky skill I have is being able to see the bigger picture even when the details feel overwhelming. I tend to step back and find patterns in the chaos, which helps me manage everything from schedules to client needs without getting too caught up in the stress. It’s like my brain’s secret superpower to keep everything running smoothly!
