Today we’d like to introduce you to Ja’Caiya Stephens.
Ja’Caiya, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve always been creative with school projects and fashion design, but once I learned about Graphic Design, my innovativeness grew. I gained an interest in Graphic Design after taking a computer course in middle school. At that time, my teacher was always hands-on with teaching the major components of a computer, such as a floppy disk, a mouse, software programs, etc. That sounds pretty boring, but it was fun to me. My teacher gave me insights on how to create visually appealing presentations, flyers, etc., from text size to avoid visual distractions. I started with just jazzing up PowerPoint presentations to editing my own pictures. So I guess you can say it’s become my “niche.” But, I never took it seriously.
Normally when you’re young, people ask you, “what do you want to be when you grow up” and you pick one career. I never thought about having a career and a business, the best of both worlds. My mother has always been a great example of a woman in business while balancing a career. While watching her, I learned how to be ambitious and plan for my future. I didn’t think Graphic design would be a part of the future, let alone a business. This pandemic really pushed me to do more, far enough as you can imagine. So, I went back to my old hobby of making edits and do simple designs for friends. I started to receive a lot of compliments on my work and decided to try it out first to see if I was comfortable with it. As you can see, I’ve kept working and haven’t stopped yet! My business has shaped who I am and now that Glam Graphics is up and running, I feel more empowered to pursue other goals. I’m extremely grateful for the things that I’ve gained from it, like balance. If I haven’t learned anything throughout this pandemic is to expect the unexpected!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been easy. If anything, my life has been more challenging since starting my business. When I started Glam Graphics, I had to re-evaluate my goals and priorities. I’m currently a student at Clark Atlanta University, majoring in Mass Media Arts with a concentration in Radio, Media, and Television. And I aspire to become a Media Journalist. My biggest struggle has been balancing. My focus has always been on being a great student and now a 19-year old entrepreneur, it’s hard to take a moment to breathe. Similar to any working college student, there are a lot of late nights filled with homework, and for me, business tasks to complete.
I rarely allow the two to intertwine because I always put my education first. However, it is hard because I run Glam Graphics by myself and it is extremely demanding. One issue I face a lot is ensuring my business and academics don’t fall short. I find it difficult to tell a client, “sorry, I have homework, I can’t talk,” especially when it is my job to fulfill their needs. However, I’m learning that it is important to fulfill my own needs. Last year was a struggle, but I’m grateful I’ve made the best of it. I was very hesitant before starting my business because I didn’t think I’d receive any positive feedback. And I was definitely wrong. I started my business by just being myself and sharing my creativity and I think that’s what reels people in. I don’t let the “hype” of attention overshadow my work. I do what I do because it’s what I enjoy. Adding Glam Graphics to my life has shaped who I’ve become and desires for the future. I’ve learned how to prioritize more, balance more, and most importantly, pursue more.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Glam Graphics?
Glam Graphics is a multi-service graphic designing business that specializes in custom logos, video editing, flyers, invites, stickers, and more! With affordable prices and great client service, Glam Graphics continues to expand its brand with bliss and glam. With a professional graphic designer, Ja’Caiya Stephens, leading as CEO of Glam Graphics, she uses her skills and talents to customize any desirable tasks. Also, Glam Graphics acts as an incentive for marketing and branding startup solutions. Glam Graphics is known for its creative designs and swift turnaround times, along with its bright pink logo!
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
The most surprising thing that I hear from people is “you don’t look like a graphic designer.” The first time I heard it was from a man and initially, I was offended, but now I take it as a compliment. I’m assuming most people expect a technical genius to be the mystery designer doing all of the work, but no, it’s just me, a boss in the making! I allow my designs to be the face of my business because I don’t want my appearance to take away from my brand. Therefore, it’s always pleasant to hear a compliment or inspiring words from those who appreciate my work. For those who do follow my work, I think they’re still surprised I know how to do these things. A lot of people are more intrigued as to why I hadn’t started my business sooner, given how long I’ve been practicing my graphic techniques. Everything, for me, has been on God’s timing, and I’m okay with that. My biggest priority is to remain humble, work hard, and continue to enjoy what I do.
Pricing:
- Custom Flyers – $25 & up
- Custom Logos – $35
- Video edits/editing – $40 & up
- Branding Packages – $50
- Promotional videos – $50 & up
Contact Info:
- Email: byglamgraphics@gmail.com
- Instagram: glamgraphics_
Image Credits
Photography by @jazzthevisionary via Instagram.
