Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Rivera
Hi Amanda, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
With over 10 years of professional experience as a Graphic Designer, my journey has been deeply rooted in creativity. From a young age, I was always drawn to artistic expression—charcoal, markers, colored pencils, and even Lite-Brite (yes, I went there!). Art was (is) my sanctuary, a way to find calm and focus amidst the lively energy of my large, half-Irish, half-Puerto Rican household—especially during Yankees games!
Growing up, my passion for creativity led me to cover my bedroom walls in drawings and magazine clippings, a personal gallery that evolved through my school years. Yet, as it came time to make tougher decisions, I entered Western Connecticut State University, as a freshman in 2008 initially pursuing a degree in Justice & Law. I was completely unaware that being an artist could be a viable career. During that time, my elective courses—Photography, Intro to Drawing, and Color Theory—were the highlight of my studies, while my Criminal Justice classes left me uninspired.
One key lesson I’ve learned (and love to share): if something doesn’t bring you joy, it’s okay to walk away. I did just that, pivoting to follow my true passion. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts with a focus on Graphic Design, and I haven’t looked back since.
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?
Is the road to success ever smooth? Not quite—but every turn led me to where I am today.
I didn’t mention my extra victory laps in undergrad, but I changed majors three times and watched my friends graduate in 2012 while I stayed until 2014 to catch up on credits. After college, I juggled two part-time jobs—bar tending and working at a family-owned produce store. Instead of using my fresh design skills, I was memorizing the codes for Swiss Chard and Kumquats. It took me a while to recognize the growing void in my life, one that couldn’t be filled with a quick fix.
Next big leap: leaving Connecticut. In 2014, I moved to South Florida with high hopes, lining up interviews with major corporations. Go big or don’t go at all, right? Well, none of them were interested in an “inexperienced” Graphic Designer. So, I freelanced while searching for a company willing to take a chance on me. At the same time, I went back to school to get certified in Early Childhood Education. Teaching at a private school in Parkland for three years filled my heart in a way I never expected. My creativity found a new outlet—helping shape young minds and inspiring their creativity became a passion.
Meanwhile, I said yes to every freelance opportunity I could find—kids’ birthday invitations, local event posters, business cards, logos, brochures—anything that let me create.
Remember that void I mentioned? I was reminded of it in 2018. While I truly enjoyed teaching, I realized it wasn’t my end goal. The turning point came after the Parkland shooting at MSD—it shook me deeply and made me reflect on my path. I knew it was time to take a leap, so I reignited my career search, determined to pursue graphic design full-time.
Success isn’t linear. Every step I took, even the unexpected ones, shaped my journey in ways I couldn’t have planned. Looking back, patience was key. Each experience, no matter how unrelated it seemed at the time, played a role in getting me to where I am today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a full-time Graphic Designer with a passion for transforming ideas into meaningful, custom designs. I do freelance projects in my spare time and work in Corporate America in the tech/finance industry (I finally got a company to take that chance on me!). Using my intuitive creative process, I bring dreams to life—ensuring each project is not only visually compelling but deeply aligned with my clients’ visions. Beyond design, I find fulfillment in many areas: family, work, spirituality, and community. Making a difference through my talents is what truly drives me, and embracing others with kindness and understanding is at the heart of everything I create.
I specialize in branding, logo development, social media management, and marketing. Some of the incredible local businesses I’ve had the privilege of working with include Heartway Church in Davie, FL (founded by Danny Prada), KW Realtor Yvette Martinez-Wilson, Strategic Business Coaching & Business Agency The Biz People (owned by Melody Duarte), and the holistic wellness and coaching company Oh My Soul Vibes (owned by Jovana Russell).
What sets me apart is a deep inner connection—to Self, to God, and to the ever-evolving creative journey. I embrace a childlike curiosity, always learning, always growing, and never assuming I have all the answers. By removing ego and welcoming divine inspiration, I ensure that every project is guided by authenticity and purpose.
For me, design isn’t just about deliverables—it’s about relationships. I want to know the human being behind the brand. I’ll stay up late refining the smallest details for you, celebrate alongside you at your launch party, and genuinely care about your journey—both professionally and personally. My client interactions go beyond contracts; they cultivate community, trust, and lasting connections.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I’m not sure exactly when it started, but my Type A personality kicked in early. I was told often, “you’re so mature for your age.” And, babysitting at a young age shaped me into a nurturer, instilling mother-like qualities that have stayed with me ever since. Family and friends often joke that I was born in the wrong era—not just because of my caring nature, but because I love doing things the old-school way. Play a vinyl instead of Spotify. Wanting to be courted instead of swiping on Hinge. Taking the back roads instead of the interstate. I could go on and on!
From an early age, I was deeply emotionally aware. With that heavy emotion came the yearning to want to fit in. I longed to be accepted in the fun friend groups. At my core, I always struggled with anything that felt unnatural to me. I hate(d) bullies—they scared me. I didn’t want to fit into just one group; I wanted to connect with everyone. That, I quickly learned, was one of the hardest truths to fulfill.
As a young adult, I continued seeking outward validation—measuring my worth by the approval of others. Everything shifted when I moved to South Florida. Stepping into a new environment forced me to confront my need for validation head-on. I had to rebuild my sense of self without the familiar faces and expectations I once relied on.
Through this journey, I discovered that true confidence comes from within—but even more importantly, I found my spiritual home (shout out to @weareheartway). Reconnecting with Jesus gave me the foundation I had been missing, grounding me in a love far greater than any external approval. That’s when I finally realized: the only acceptance I truly needed was my own, and more importantly, His. Once I embraced that truth, I felt freer, more authentic, and more at peace than ever before.
My work has become a reflection of my authentic self—bold, unique, and uninhibited by the need for approval. It’s opened up a whole new world of possibility, both professionally and personally.
Pricing:
- Hourly and Packaged Prices Available
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bio.site/amandarivera
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariveradesigns/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaleerivera/
Image Credits
Rachel v Rose @createdby.rchlvrs
