What inspired you to launch your business?

As a creative director and digital manager, I occasionally have ideas for fun designs to do my own, inspired by things I see around me. It started with my RGB RBG design after watching the documentary RBG. Jewelry design is a newer venture that came about last year during the pandemic as a fun, personal (and cost-effective) idea for holiday gifts. As I got more inspiration, I suddenly had more jewelry than friends and family to gift pieces. I decided to open an Etsy shop and see what happens. I mostly create earrings because they are universal. You do not have to worry about sizing with earrings; you can make something for everyone. I am constantly thinking of more design ideas, which has inspired me to take this more seriously. 

What is your passion?

I love being inspired and challenged creatively. Whether it is going to see a new art exhibit, a film, a play, or even a good meal, I love to discuss what I have experienced, what that experience means, what I learned and can take away from it. I love things that motivate me to share my experiences with others and hope they feel the same. I try to recreate this in my work. I want to produce something that others want to share and discuss.

How do you start your day?

I will be the first to admit I am not a morning person. I will wake up right before my alarm (if not slightly after). I like to start every workday with some classical radio (WFMT) and a cup of coffee (or two). This past year, our coffee has come from Custom Cup in Springfield, which my dad got me hooked on. In my opinion, they have the best beans. My favorite coffee mug is a thick guy that keeps my coffee nice and warm, and it has a quote by Fred Rogers, "Sometimes you're right where you need to be." It is a good reminder when I am about to log into my work email.

Favorite local businesses?

I live in Chicago, but one of my favorite Springfield businesses is Custom Cup (see above). My family has become big supporters of Home Girls Boutique in Jacksonville, and I have been lucky enough to receive care packages and gifts this past year from there. We are big vinyl fans, so our favorite shop to hit up in Chicago is Pinwheel Records. They have the best selection of vinyl, and the owners are so welcoming and friendly. I also love Chocolat Uzma in Chicago, a minority female-owned chocolate shop with the best chocolate I have ever had. Uzma Sharif's products have become my go-to for gifts or when my sweet tooth kicks in. Seriously, if the weather permits, order some for yourself! And if you need guidance on where to start, let me know, but you really can't go wrong!

What do you deem as success in business?

I think for me, being successful in a business is enjoying what you're doing. You don't have to love it 100% of the time – there will be ups and downs – but as long as you can stop and take a moment to ask yourself if you enjoy this thing that you're doing, and the answer is, "yes" then you're not doing too shabby in my book.

What is your number one piece of advice for business owners?

I'm still new to this so, I don't know if I am the best person to offer advice. But I am welcome to all tips and tricks the Illinois Local family has. For me, I'm just trying to have some fun along the way and maybe make someone feel good with one of my designs.

For more information, visit ckcreative.threadless.com

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