Laura and I met when I was in high school many moons ago. Though I credit several different people for my creative and artistic side, I believe Laura was the first one to encourage me to embark on this life. She was not only a creative mentor for me, but a close personal friend and confidant. I remember my senior project like it was yesterday. I chose the topic of Graphic Design. I created an ad for a brand of dark chocolate that was encouraging the healthiness of the product. We carefully selected backdrops and fonts, and I learned to navigate InDesign (which I'm getting ready to circle back to to create our JPF Bridal Guide, ironically); we photographed fruit covered in the chocolate product, and she taught me how to execute a sales pitch to my class. I later went to pursue a career in design and have used all she has taught me about branding and marketing over the years to build JPF and my former photography business into what they are today! Everything I have become, I credit to this beautiful soul!
Enough about me, just take a read for yourself and find yourself inspired by her and her work!
How old are you (if you are ok with sharing…totally optional)?
I'll be 47 on May 1.
What is the name of your creative business? What do you do?
My business is named "Blume Shine Studio," and I'm a graphic designer and painter. I'm also a writer and editor.
Where do you live? Where is your business located?
I live in the Greenville, SC area, just north in a small community called Travelers Rest.
How long have you been in business?
I've been in the creative field (as a writer, editor, designer, painter) for about 24 years, but I started specifically focusing on painting about 3 years ago.
What sets you apart in your business? What do you aspire others to know about your business?
I think what sets me apart is that I've been involved with almost every part of marketing, publishing, design, and art. I appreciate the education, hard work, and dedication it takes to (try to) be a success in a creative field. My business is an emerging one... I still have quite a bit of work to do to my website, to get my work out there, and to be recognized in the arts community.
Who or what inspires you in your personal life?
Who inspires me emotionally is my mom. She is my biggest cheerleader (and financial supporter). My dad passed away much too early in 2007, and I know he watches over me as I paint. What inspires me creatively is to learn, to experiment, to mess up, to try and create something beautiful, and something that makes someone happy. My friends and family are daily inspirations. Without them, I'd probably be too afraid to try. Their encouragement means the world to me.
How do you get un-stuck if you’re in a creative rut?
To get un-stuck, I'll put down the brush (washing it first, of course!), and go for a walk, or go call a friend, or listen to some music, or just sit quietly... anything to get me out of my current environment, literally and figuratively. I might read, or flip through a magazine. But honestly, cleaning and organizing are probably my biggest escapes. Nothing like cleaning dust bunnies from the hardwood floors to clear the dust bunnies tangling up my hard head!
How do you feel about your organization and time management skills?
I feel like I'm as organized as I can be. No, every bill is not filed away, and I do hid stacks of papers in my desk drawers thinking that I'll get to them later. And there's always something to be fixed around the house. But I try to keep it all in perspective, so what's important is organized and I'm on top of it. I've never missed a deadline. But if it can wait, it will wait. Life is too important to worry about everything being perfect. (My sister will pass out hearing me say that!)
What is your favorite food?
Ok. I can't lie, so, ice cream and pizza from Sidewall are indeed my favorite foods. But, since I'm nearly 47, not 27, I'm trying hard to eat more fresh, organic, local vegetables and proteins from our local grocery, the Swamp Rabbit Grocery and Cafe.
Favorite memory?
From my childhood, I have three: Canoeing with my dad and his friends down the Nantahala, my Grandmother's smile every time I walked through her from door, playing "store" with my sister, and listening to my mom talk about leaning to drive on a tobacco harvester in south Georgia.
Do you have a routine?
Only when it comes to personal tasks... flossing, moisturizer, etc. Oh, and feeding my cat, Lucy, of course! Since I left the corporate world three years ago, every day is different, and I absolutely love it.
How do you spend your time when you’re not working?
Sleeping (which is a challenge for a brain that's "creating" 24/7), reading, exercising, and chatting with my niece, Maggie.
What are your current guilty pleasures?
Netflix binges. I love British crime drama. And I do love a nice, new handbag...
Describe yourself in one word. Describe your business in three words.
Me: Effervescent. And I'm not saying that about myself. My cousin and friends have called me that, so, I guess I am. If I picked a word for myself, it would be "loyal." My business in three words: developing, challenging, and fabulously messy!
Favorite color?
Green
Tell us about your journey to start your own business.
I was downsized from a creative agency, and it was the best thing that would have happened. I had been working with my mentor/friend on personal life goals, and I knew I wanted to be a painter. I've always dabbled in the visual arts, from childhood to college and beyond. One night, a colleague and I were joking about making our own "family spirits" let's just say, and she said, "Oh my goodness, yours would be Blumeshine!" And, a leaf on my seed of an idea started to grow. My mentor really pushed to look deep into my heart and see that I have the strength and talent to start my own business. It's scary, though. But, I wasn't just going to try to find another job sitting in front of a computer. Though, I do that to support myself financially, the release from the corporate chains really brought this all to life.
What is a quote that keeps you focused and motivated?
"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." --Anaïs Nin
Where would you love to be with your creative business in 3 years?
In galleries, in art shows, and up to my knees in commission work.
How has your brand evolved into what it is today?
I think my brand is still evolving. In fact, I'm considering a slight re-brand to simply my name. Most professional artists use their name, and I think that would also help me gain more recognition. I would keep my little emblem... it represents a flower bursting into light.
You can find Laura and all her beautiful creative works at the following:
www.blumeshine.com / Instagram: @blumeshine.com / Facebook: Laura Blume and BlumeShine
If you or someone you know is looking for an unique piece of art give Laura a shout, she is fabulous and so is her work!
Shine bright,
Lauren
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