Meet Maiya Ali | Digital Brand Strategist

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

Hi Maiya, how do you think about risk?
Honestly, it played a significant part in how I started my business. I originally started as a Financial Advisor when I graduated college. I got my degree in Finance and I already knew I wanted a career in business since I was in high school, so it all seemed to line up. However, over time I realized something I didn’t expect: it wasn’t my passion. I loved helping people with their portfolios and teaching others how to invest, but it wasn’t something that energized me all the time. I had a passion for creating websites and designs for individuals, which was a hobby/business I did on the side since high school.

After I was released from my last finance job during the start of COVID, I had a huge decision to make: do I continue my current career pathway or make a new career with my passion? I was terrified and I knew I would be making a BIG leap if I decided the latter. It was a risk, but definitely a risk I was willing to make! Two years later and I’m happier than ever. I always tell others that you don’t always have to make your passion into your career, but sometimes, it’s definitely for the best.

What should our readers know about your business?
Innovative Pages originally started as a web design business, but we have slowly expanded our services to help others grow their business through a human-centered digital brand strategy approach. We offer Social Media Management, Graphic Design, and Web Design services to businesses. We work closely with small business owners to give them a brand makeover and teach them methods to market themselves better. Overall, we turn your digital daydreams into dazzling designs!

At Innovative Pages, we’re proud to say that our clientele is mostly black female entrepreneurs. I love assisting my community in any way that I can. Our goal is to support several start-up/small businesses run by black individuals or families because their voice deserves to be heard. We want to help them build their platform to the fullest potential.

We set ourselves apart by utilizing a strategy that focuses on presenting the heart of the company/business. It’s all about the presentation and making sure your message comes across as authentic and natural as possible. All in all, strategy matters the most. It’s the framework needed for my clients to increase engagement and reach on their virtual platforms, as well as get a good return on investment. Sales matter to us too!

Honestly, being a full-time entrepreneur isn’t as easy as it seems. I was not prepared for all the expenses, setting up the business in the backend, figuring out how to expand the business on my own, etc. I definitely had a vision, but I had to stay true to myself to make it become a reality. I learned that it’s better to ask for help from the people you trust the most than to drown in your business. We all need assistance sometimes, even when we feel like we can deal with everything on our own. I feel like I’m learning every day, but it’s honestly one of the best feelings in the world.

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.
There are so many places to check out in Atlanta, especially if you’re looking for a good time with friends. If you want to do a little sightseeing to get a feel for the city, I would recommend biking on the Beltline. You could park at Atlanta Bicycle Barn, rent out a bike for an affordable price, and ride the whole strip. You get to see art, sit down at restaurants, and even visit Ponce City Market if you want to go shopping. It’s honestly one of the most beautiful places in Atlanta.

If you want to do something chill and fun, I would suggest taking a pottery class at Mudfire Studios in Decatur. Perfect for a date night or a chill time with friends! They teach you how to make simple pieces and you get to design what you make when the class is over. Such a great vibe.

Lastly, if you want to dance the night away and just have a GREAT time on your night out, I would recommend Foxtrot and Tiki Tango. Start at Foxtrot when the night is still young. They have great food & drinks, and the music is amazing! When the night starts creeping up, Foxtrot and Tiki Tango open their doors and connect their bars. You’ll be able to walk over to Tiki Tango and party in their 3-level lounge. It’s literally like 3 bars/clubs into one! Each level has its own vibe so you can jump around and see what fits your level for the night. 10/10, would always recommend it!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shout out to my sister Aasiya (@the.aasiyac)! She was my first official client and has always been one of my biggest supporters. I have always appreciated her help, her advice, and her love since I started my business full time.

My boyfriend Xavier has stepped in whenever I was too scared to ask for help. He was my photographer, my assistant, my cheerleader, my sales representative… the man does it all! I’m so happy to continually have him by my side as I grow in my career.

My father and my brother, Kashif, have also been my cheerleaders when I needed some encouragement or support. These two have always been willing to pitch their time and effort to assist me, and I’m so glad to have them in my life.

Lastly, my BNI/ networking group (BNI PaceSetters in Decatur) showed up and showed out for me. I actually owe much of my success to their constant, unyielding support of me and my business.

Website: www.ipagesdesign.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativepages/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maiya-ali/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/innovativepages

Image Credits
Aziz Ajaney (@fotofreaksaziz)