Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Strunkey.
Erin, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My love for graphic design began junior year of high school. I’ve always had a passion for art but never knew what I wanted to specialize in. I was blessed with the opportunity to take a multimedia design dual-enrollment course at a technical college while attending high school. The class changed my perspective and allowed me to work for hands-on with projects that have been beneficial to my future career. I chose to continue my design development by attending Florida Atlantic University and majoring in Graphic Design.
While in college, I did graphic design internships and eventually ventured out and began freelance work. As a graphic design intern for the FAU Men’s Basketball team, I took a step outside of my comfort zone and was able to broaden my design ability. Being able to combine my love for design and sports was a perfect combination for me and is something I wish to pursue in future endeavors. I was self-taught when it came to making logos, and I had already had previous experience creating flyers and templates from being Public Relations Chair for SISTUHS, Incorporated. When I first started doing graphics for friends and small businesses, I slowly saw the growth and realized I could invest in myself while also building my personal portfolio. In 2019, I officially established a brand for myself, Queen of Graphics.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As an entrepreneur, I knew no journey would be smooth and there will always be challenges to overcome. Between finding a working balance for myself and procrastination, I have had to face numerous obstacles along the way. I am a perfectionist, which is one aspect that made me prolong starting my own business. While it may seem like a positive trait, it can make you overthink every move and block growth. My family and close friends played a big role in giving me the confidence and encouragement to get serious with creating graphics for others on my own. During the time that I chose to fully pursue Queen of Graphics, I was also a full-time college student working full-time hours, juggling two jobs. It was definitely a lot on my plate at the time, with also being active in different organizations and intramural sports. It was tough and there was always self-doubt, but I knew it was only temporary.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Queen of Graphics – what should we know?
Queen of Graphics specializes in graphic designs of all kinds from logos, business cards, and flyers to t-shirt designs, cover art, and Instagram templates. It is amazing to be able to do something I enjoy doing while also making a profit along the way. I love to contribute to building a brand and making ideas come to life. Not many people specialize in graphics, so it is incredible to see my work being recommended throughout Florida and out of state. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, I have graduated and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and have been able to focus all my time to Queen of Graphics. Business growth and the need for graphics has also skyrocketed due to many people choosing to pursue entrepreneurship and start their own business.
As far as Queen of Graphics, I am most proud of my growth over time because it shows in my work, and I am always finding new ways to improve. What sets me apart from others would have to be my creativity and how I am able to freestyle a concept and create unique designs. Customer service, along with my organization and communication skills, is also something I take pride in. I strive to give all my clients an exceptional experience and provide every design in a timely manner. I value customer service in my business because it ensures a continuous relationship with my clientele.
My goal is to eventually branch out and provide more design options such as websites and motion graphics. I would like to see Queen of Graphics grow into a large corporation and have other graphic designers that I can mentor working within the company. The field of graphic design has so much potential that I can’t wait to explore and contribute to.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
My family and close friends played a major role of influencing me to pursue Queen of Graphics. Specifically, my mom deserves all the credit because she made it possible for me to be where I am today. My mom has been my greatest influence in my life, and she continues to strive and push me to my limit, whether that is graphics, school, or life in general. My circle of supporters is full of people that want to see me successful and are constantly pushing me to my fullest potential, and I am so blessed and thankful because not everyone has that support.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 4077163143
- Email: xQueenofGraphics@gmail.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/QueenofGraphics
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