Meet Natalie Milhouse | Founder & Chief Editor of Divine Enthusiast

We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Milhouse and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natalie, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I’ve been in a bit of a transformative state when it comes to my work/life balance which included me quitting my 9-5 last December. I was trying to balance that, freelancing as a graphic designer, and growing Divine Enthusiast.

I think during that time, Looking back, I realized how much I neglected myself. These days I’ve been very intentional about taking time out for myself. One practice for me is designating personal days, one of them being in the middle of the week. It’s working for me, so far and it allows me to reset, cater to my space, and do some self-care practices that sustain my momentum. Above everything though, balance looks like giving my body what it needs when it needs it.

I think the key to having a healthy work/life balance is to just make it yours, and know that it’s okay to switch it up when you need to. There’s no right way to have a work/life balance.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Divine Enthusiast is a multi-dimensional art-house that amplifies the voice, art, and brands of women of color while offering resources and dialogue to support their cultural and spiritual well-being.

What started as a digital magazine is quickly expanding to be a center and source for women of color creatives to find inspiration.

We’re doing this through publication that allows for more authentic storytelling, resources that move your artistry forward, and a community that nurtures and empowers you to show up resolutely in all of your practices.

I think what makes Divine Enthusiast, so dope is that we meet you where you are in your creative journey, and we’re not afraid to unpack that. By cultivating this level of transparency, we’re able to honor emerging and under-recognized women of color artists. This is all a process, and we’re here to make the journey a little easier.

I’m looking at challenges in a new light these days. They’re just opportunities at this point. I don’t think the process is “easy,” but I do think that things are happening for your good, regardless if it looked like a loss. I also think that patience is key. If we rush the process, we miss what we’re really supposed to gain during the process.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m currently in Chicago. And if I had to pick a few places to go it would be The Silverroom in Hyde Park for local goods, art, and culture; The Delta for good music and food, and I would recommend staying at the Hoxton where you can chill, grab a decent drink and enjoy the food in the Fulton Market area. (we eat a lot in Chicago lol)

I’m really into pop-up experiences so, I would recommend those for sure. If we’re talking summertime Chi, then for sure the beach and anything with a patio these days.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
So I’ve been reading “All That Is Made – A Guide to Faith and the Creative Life” By Alabaster, and it’s amazing how paralleled my perspective lines up with their messaging about the creative and our connection to the Creator.

One part that has stuck out the most is the importance of remembering that we are carried by the Spirit. Meaning, we are where we are because of Him. I wouldn’t even have the thoughts and ideas I have without God placing them in my soul, so shoutout to Him!! And also, this book that’s serving as fruit for my spirit.

Also, your tribe is everything! My family, my guy, and my friends – whew! They all play roles that I’m sure they don’t even realize. I do want to give special recognition to my guy, Trae. He has seen the highs and lows and has supported me consistently through it all and I appreciate the encouragement, because sometimes, we just need a shoulder to lean on.

Also, I’m beyond grateful to have met Hannah Larae, who is now my Partner and Creative Director in Divine Enthusiast. It feels good to have someone understand your vision and willing to help you bring it to light.

Shoutout to Yall.

Website: www.divineenthusiast.com

Instagram: @divineenthusiast

Youtube: Divine Enthusiast

Image Credits
Photography by Justin “JMillz” Milhouse Instagram: @j.milhouse