Meet Tiffany Nicole | Graphic Designer | Writer | Nutritionist

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

Hi Tiffany, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
The biggest decision that contributed to my success was: to Believe that this Vision is real. Although I’ve been in business for 3 years now, each day I wake up praying over projects and operations. As we continue to grow, I’m still amazed that I was the one chosen for this. Part of my task as a business owner is to trust that the Most High will put everything in order as I stay focused on being diligent. And when I say “believing”, that requires giving inspired ideas a realistic consideration, without doubt. Faith is required to have a vision and carry it to completion. That’s how we create from the unseen.

Of course, you might wonder how that even works. Don’t regular people just learn a trade, open up sales and get to work? Hm, well not all of us. Before this business started, I actually had no desire to be an entrepreneur. I was essentially invited… by destiny. My mentors along with colleagues in my circle needed someone to create graphics, design presentations, and build websites. At the time, I was a Creative with no job, an eye for color and a desire to serve. My “by all means” work ethic flowed well with the clients. And, opportunities began to surface organically.

One night I had a dream. All I saw was the words “Creative Encouragement”. So I woke up, wrote it down and forgot about it. Some days, I wondered if I was chasing a mirage, or if this creative gift really had potential to impact lives. As people sought out my services, it was then (in 2018) that I realized this could really become profitable. Only with prayer and persistence. My laptop was wrecked, but still operable. Without me knowing, my friend (shoutout to Robin Lynn Harris) blessed me with a new Chromebook out of the blue.

As I developed my skills, all I wanted to do was bring people’s dreams and visions to Life; the way Creative Encouragement came to life from my dream. My mentors encouraged me to write up a business plan, based on Habakkuk 2:2. Once I did that, things shifted forward. I’ve been designing ever since. Now our mission is “Bringing Life to Your Vision” and we are certified with the Better Business Bureau. Without a blueprint, being the first one of my siblings to build a successful business, I know this was definitely a vision from the Almighty!

Yet, during those off months (entrepreneurs, you know those seasons when it gets a little rough), I’d have to remind myself not to give up. Life’s purpose is bigger than us. This business was not my idea, therefore who would I have been to give up on what God called me to? I knew deep down, someone’s brand would need designs only we could provide to fulfill their purpose.

Once I set my heart on seeing this as a legitimate business (and not a hobby), doors began to open. Doubt faded away. Those challenging times birthed a creative courage to Believe. That courage is the key to endure every day for a greater reward. For anyone who’s questioning their talent, skills, or capabilities… just pray on it and go. The path will be paved as you go!

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.
First of all, I enjoy the term Creative. It’s so unlimiting! Our works of art can be found in the details that transform mundane to magnificent. Whether that’s found on clients’ landing pages, sharp graphics, t-shirt prints, brilliant copywriting or custom websites. Some of the greatest work we do is for others, that alone is rewarding.

We are Set Apart because of our origin. The secret sauce to our success is praying over every project. That’s always been our Step One, and it will remain.

I arrived at this place professionally through mentorship, persistence and learning when to say ‘No’. It’s been, not easy, but adventurous. I arrived here thanks to the plan of the Most High. Not to mention, having a tribe that fully supports this work. Building with solid principles is a vital success key. When you know your “why”, that keeps you pushing through the rough days like somebody’s watching.

This journey as a business owner has taught me diligence. Writing out the details of every goal or Vision is highly effective. Never compromise priorities like God and family. Always operate in excellence. And finally, always give your gift a fighting chance.

When the world sees Creative Encouragement, I hope the visionaries know they musn’t define “success” by societal standards. God can make a corporation out of a start-up if we simply obey. When you have an idea as unique as you are, your chosen path is to refine that and bring it to Life. Don’t just strive to do well, make it phenomenal!

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 presently live in Cincinnati, and there’s so much to see here! I love a good balance of calm atmospheres, being outdoors, and adventurous activities. First, we’d check out the Banks on the Ohio River. Then we’ll muse through exhibits at the Freedom Museum and stop to grab a bite at the Yard House. To start the following day, we may kick back at the blaCk Coffee lounge with a cinnamon chai. If you want fresh produce or custom-made gifts, I’ll gladly show you around Findlay Market. Afterwards, we can learn to golf at the Main Event or enjoy the giant trampolines within Sky Zone. I love reading, so a trip to Barnes and Noble is a must. We’d also stop in to Graeter’s and taste test Cincy’s favorite ice cream. If you’re up for bowling, we can find our way to Pins Technical downtown. Finally, we can bask barefoot in the breeze at Eden Park and close out the trip with a plate of soul food from Rasheedah’s.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d definitely have to credit the Most High first. I would not be where I am today without His Hand over my Life, protecting me and giving me a new chance to get this right. Of course, my Mom! She was and still is one of my biggest supporters no matter what I do. The people that encouraged me to start this business deserve honorable mentions. Starting with Toni Reneé, from Divine Keys. She invited me to Ohio to rebuild my Life. She mentored me and showed me the ropes of how to operate in business. Also, to Robin Lynn Harris. Her friendship and prayers helped greatly. She supported Creative Encouragement from day one. Even when I wanted to give up. Lastly, my soon-to-be-husband, Ernest. From day one, he believed that this business was capable of delivering more than we could imagine. He is a constant support; always sharing wisdom, reminding me to rest, and helping me decide which font to use.

And to all the clients who believed in C.E. enough to invest… I sincerely thank you.

Website: creativeencouragement.net