Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy Aviles.
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?
My journey into entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in my passion for art, architecture, and design, a love affair that has defined me since as long as I can remember. After studying Architecture in Ecuador and later pursuing Interior Design in Miami, I embarked on a career path that allowed me to immerse myself in the world I adored. Over seven wonderful years as an architectural advisor specializing in finishes and construction products for the trade, I gained invaluable insights and experiences working alongside top architects and designers in Miami.
However, amidst the hustle and bustle of the trade, I felt a stirring within me—an undeniable urge to express my own message, to bring my visions to life, and to delve even deeper into the realm of design. It was this calling that led me to take a leap of faith and open my own Interior Design studio in December 2021.
Driven by my passion for creativity and a desire to make a meaningful impact, my studio offers a range of services, including Interior Design and creative workshops tailored for trade professionals eager to explore intriguing products and techniques.
But my journey doesn’t end there. I’m also an avid advocate for continuous learning and personal growth. I believe that innovation thrives when we challenge ourselves to push beyond our comfort zones and embrace new perspectives. That’s why I’m always seeking opportunities to expand my horizons collaborating with fellow creatives.
As an entrepreneur, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about embracing the journey, embracing every twist and turn, and staying true to the passion that fuels my creativity. And while the road may be winding and full of surprises, I wouldn’t have it any other way. After all, it’s the challenges we face and the obstacles we overcome that shape us into the resilient, adaptable, and inspired individuals we are meant to be.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey of entrepreneurship is anything but smooth; it’s a rollercoaster of challenges, victories, and endless learning opportunities. As an entrepreneur, I’ve navigated through uncertainties, faced with the unpredictable nature of business, and juggled multiple roles simultaneously. From being a CEO to a content creator, marketing manager, website designer, and accountant, all while fulfilling my roles as a mother, wife, and homemaker, every day presents its unique set of hurdles.
Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with the responsibilities of family life has been a constant struggle. From managing the household to spending quality time with my teens, taking care of our furry companion, and nurturing my relationship with my husband, each task requires careful time management and prioritization. Yet, despite the chaos, I wouldn’t trade this lifestyle for anything else.
What drives me forward is the freedom that entrepreneurship offers—the liberty to think, to act, to create, and to embrace both successes and failures. It’s about embracing the journey of growth, continually pushing boundaries, and evolving personally and professionally. However, mastering this balance doesn’t mean settling into complacency. As an entrepreneur, I’m constantly seeking new challenges, re-inventing strategies, and exploring innovative avenues for growth.
The road may be bumpy, but it’s paved with invaluable experiences and lessons learned. It’s about embracing the journey, cherishing every moment of progress, and celebrating resilience in the face of adversity. So, has it been a smooth road? Far from it. But it’s been a journey worth taking—a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and relentless pursuit of dreams.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At the core of my work lies a passion for collaboration and connection. I thrive on the energy of bringing people together, uniting creatives to enhance each other’s work, and fostering a sense of camaraderie within the design community.
What sets me apart is my belief in the power of collaboration beyond individual success. I don’t just want to run my own studio and focus solely on my work. Instead, I’m driven by a desire to share experiences with professionals I admire, to learn from fellow creatives, and to support and be supported in our collective journey.
This philosophy led me to found Collab Girls, a vibrant design community of female entrepreneurs in our field. Through Collab Girls, we come together to learn, grow, and create through constant workshops and collaborative projects. We also prioritize giving back to our community by engaging in pro bono activities, such as remodeling projects, to leave a positive impact on those around us.
I’m most proud of the sense of unity and empowerment that Collab Girls has fostered. Seeing the transformative effects of collaboration and collective action reminds me of the immense potential we have to make a difference when we come together with purpose and passion.
Ultimately, I would say that what sets me apart is not just my individual achievements, but my dedication to building connections, nurturing creativity, and making a positive impact both within the design community and beyond.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
In the past, I used to read and listen to everything about sales and the power we have to achieve goals with a good mindset. Positive thinking theories, the power of visualization, and all those powerful tools that have the potential to change our lives in profound ways. This knowledge was great for me to succeed in my years of sales. But nowadays, I have moved to a new level of consciousness, focusing on information about personal growth. I am fascinated by the concept of self-awareness, which involves understanding your strengths, weaknesses, values, beliefs, and emotions. One of my favorite authors today is Dr. Mario Alonso Puig. I like his view of us as humans and how everything is related to the way we love others. How our thinking can determine our reality and how we can become a better version of ourselves by being conscious of the way we think, act, and love. Everything related to the awakening of our spiritual side really excites me and this kind of material keeps me entertained. Ultimately, you can empower yourself by being your own mentor and staying self-motivated through consuming the right information.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bluebycindydesignstudio.com/
- Instagram: @bluebycindy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindy-aviles-966baab1/
- Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@bluebycindy
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/blue-by-cindy-doral
