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

Hi Erikka, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
It was actually fueled by rejection. After, hearing “no” from so many agencies and non profits following graduation – I decided to stop asking for a seat at the table, and I started my own. Over the years, it’s been pivot after pivot, but the journey has been beyond worth it.

Not only did that one decision help me grow as a person but it has allowed me to create a table for other young creatives to sit and grow.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m most excited to have figured out how to be myself, authentically, and be proud of the work I do – and even more proud of impact I have created. Being a creative or entrepreneur is far from easy, but I think the hardest thing to do is to find your lane and be okay driving in it – despite the traffic or lack thereof.

What I mean is… it’s so easy to scroll instagram and compare yourself to others in your industry who may be showing results you desire and you get off course trying to duplicate them. The issue with that is, you disregard your audience and what they need. I truly believe when you’re true to you, and those you are called to – everything else will in place. Of course, you’ll need to get your systems and processes together, but your journey is yours – your audience is yours.

What sets me apart, is I’m more than a graphic designer. Most of my clients, come to me “not knowing what they need” – they are seeking clarity strategically and visually – with a small ounce of fear and doubt brewing in them. This is where I come in, as Creative Bestie. Just like any Bestie, I’m going to encourage, support and respectfully – get you together (in love of course).

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Whenever, I’m in town with friends, our first stop is Bar Taco.. (OMG, I can taste it now). Most of the time, we’re just chilling and relaxing, Atlanta is definitely home away home, but surprisingly – It’s one of my peace spots – I’m not out much when I’m in town. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Whew, honestly there’s a bunch of people who deserve recognition.

My Friends, who support and push me to keep going. They not only share my content, buy my products but send simple text to make sure I stopped to eat lunch. It’s truly the little things that matter most.

My Family who didn’t fully understand in the beginning but continued to support and encourage me.

My brother, the Chief Smile Guy – Phillip Simpson – who showed me the way. He is my example and my mentor. Because he embarked on his journey of entrepreneurship, I knew I could.

Website: erikkayvonne.com

Instagram: erikkayvonne

Twitter: erikkayvonne

Facebook: Erikka Yvonne

Other: Strutinhershoes.org

Image Credits
MicBruc Evan Chesny LT Multimedia

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlana 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.