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

Hi Ariana, how do you think about risk?
Taking risks has been one of the most impactful things in my journey called life. Without risk taking and doing things out of my comfort zone, I wouldn’t be in the position I am in today. When you take a risk, it puts you in a place where you either gain what you initially desire or you gain a lesson. People tend to be afraid of “failure” but if you “fail” you can always try again or find a better opportunity for you. My career is a lot better because I’ve faced fears and gained things from that.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Being a social media influencer has been a long journey for me. Now, I’m in a space where I know what type of light I want to shine on others and I know that enjoy creating fashion content. I’m proud of that because for a long time I felt lost with doing social media. Since I am an upcoming fashion designer I decided that I can mix two of my passions, spreading love/positivity and fashion, together. Some lessons I’ve learned along the way is that you don’t have to compare yourself to other people. Everyone is on their own journey and everyone has different circumstances, so your comparison of yourself and others can be toxic to your mental health. You don’t want to try to be anyone else because realistically, you cannot ever be someone else. You are meant to be different in your own way and the things you like are perfectly fine to like. Do what’s best for you and your journey. I like to say I have two different brands, myself, Ari Aniya, and my upcoming clothing brand Cianni. Both me and my brand stand for self-expression and individuality. I aim to inspire a sense of freedom, encouraging people to explore new horizons, defy societal norms, and embark on your own journey.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta, the first place I would take them to is The Yard Milkshake bar. They have ice cream and milkshakes but to the next level! Little five points is one of my favorite places to go and shop for little antique things, thrift clothes, crystals, posters, room decor, etc. I’d also love to take my friend to the Georgia Aquarium to see animals after going out to eat. My favorite museum is the High Museum of Art, so I would take them there as well.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my south out to both of my grandmothers Polly and Tina for pushing me to pursue my goals and providing a safe space for me to live and grow. They’ve raised me and provided for me for many years and I wouldn’t be in the space I’m in without them.

Website: https://linktr.ee/ariianiya?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=aeb31960-6b07-4a8f-9b39-67478f510661&fbclid=PAAaZWvcmmrn_H3Yyv71i9qnsJJmuNLtMSyibZT7KlReyFTNIDiXeciHXxBFM_aem_AXv4Aj0kJImphHRDERxTGY3rv2Xkwat0WOa-cEDwTNMgUMroC-u3d3qpR6hdfoaxPSU

Instagram: https://instagram.com/ariianiya?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ariianiya?si=K8OFaBOOoJoRnB_f

Image Credits
Kaden Lymon

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.