Today we’d like to introduce you to Cicily Williams
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I grew up in small-town Alabama as one of eight kids (shoutout to the middle kids). From a young age, I was drawn to the world of art, often having drawing competitions with my brothers. My passion for creativity grew as I spent countless hours experimenting with type studies and drawing on the computer—long before I even knew what graphic design was.
My love for design began to take shape in my sophomore year of high school when I took a class that introduced me to the fundamentals of design. This sparked a journey that led me to Auburn University, where I graduated cum laude with a BFA in Graphic Design.
After college, I launched my career as a designer and art director working in industries ranging from university libraries and food science to real estate, travel and tourism. Just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I made a pivotal move to Atlanta, where I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. Today I run my own business, dedicated to helping small businesses and non-profits create compelling brands that shine.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Funny story—I almost didn’t follow my dreams of becoming a graphic designer! During my senior year of college, my grandmother passed away, and I completely over-proposed for my senior design project. The result? I got a C in the class! The perfectionist in me immediately thought, “Well, that’s it—I’m a failure. Clearly, I’m not cut out for this.” I started comparing myself to others in my class and the wider world, convinced that everyone else was miles ahead of me. My limiting beliefs had me thinking I didn’t measure up.
Cue the imposter syndrome, and next thing you know, I found myself teaching elementary school instead of diving into the world of design. I ended up teaching for about three years before I finally gathered the confidence to chase my true passion again (and just in time before those kids made me lose all my hair! Ha!).
As you know, we’re big fans of Cicily Creates. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Cicily Creates is a brand strategy and marketing boutique that elevates your brand from where it stands to where it commands. We specialize in art direction, design, and crafting the perfect blueprint for your brand’s success—so seamless that our clients can implement it themselves if they choose. Our focus is on empowering small service-based businesses with big missions and non-profit organizations.
Many of our clients come to us feeling overwhelmed with ideas but unsure of how to execute them, or stuck in their business and needing branding support. Some don’t know who their target audience is, how to communicate with them, or what it means to have a solid marketing strategy and a strong brand. If any of this resonates with you, we’re here to help!
Every project begins with a Fit Call to ensure Cicily Creates is the right match for your business. From there, we dive into our Fuel Up—an in-depth review of where you are, where you’re headed, and where you want to take your business. We leave no stone unturned in crafting the perfect blueprint to achieve your goals.
Then comes the design! You’ll walk away from your Cicily Creates experience not just satisfied, but genuinely thrilled and empowered—ready to implement your new brand, execute your plan, and elevate your business to new heights.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t necessarily believe in luck, but I do believe in the power of networking, building valuable connections, and simply being a good person. These three principles have undoubtedly led to my name being mentioned in rooms where I wasn’t even present, opening doors to opportunities I might never have known existed. There’s something rewarding about a genuine handshake, introducing yourself, and getting to know others. You never know how you might be able to help them or how they could help you in the future.
Pricing:
- 15-minute Fit Call: Free
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cicily.design/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cicilycreates/
- Other: https://cicily.as.me/fit
Image Credits
Jeremy Harris – JeCor Photography
