We had the good fortune of connecting with Aly Pratkelis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aly, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
In social media and marketing, I hear the advice to “niche down” constantly. In my experience, that isn’t how most businesses actually find their footing. Especially early on, I’ve learned by trying different things, paying attention to what performs, and adjusting based on real results. The clarity comes from being close to the work, not from deciding too early what the work is supposed to look like.

That way of operating carries through everything I do. I don’t separate my business work from preparing for law school as if they’re unrelated paths. They use the same skills every day: analyzing information, recognizing patterns, making decisions without perfect data, and owning the outcome of those decisions. Working on both at the same time feels efficient because I’m strengthening the same muscle in different contexts.

I’ve never limited myself to one lane just to appear focused. Focus has come from repetition and experience. My direction has sharpened as I’ve stayed in motion and paid attention to what holds up over time. Keeping more than one path open hasn’t diluted my work. It’s made my thinking clearer and my judgment stronger.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I’ve been running Dreamscape Digital Media for almost two years now, providing social media and digital media solutions to business owners and creatives who want to build an authentic, organic presence that drives growth. One of the reasons my co-founder and I started Dreamscape was because we believed in each other’s ability to succeed in this space, even before we felt fully ready to take the risk.

What brought us together, and what continues to set us apart, is the way we see others. Our lens is grounded in creativity and compassion, without judgment. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we take the time to build strategies that are fully customized to each client.

White-label social media management and recycled templates are common right now, and that’s something we intentionally avoid. If we create templates, they are custom-made for each client. We were frustrated by seeing business owners sold followers instead of real growth. Social media can be a powerful tool when it’s used organically and authentically, rather than chasing trends or viral moments.

Every client brings a story and a dream. Our goal is to capture both and help our clients showcase them in a way that actually works for their business.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting for a week, I’d split the time between Colorado Springs and Denver so they could experience both the grounding, outdoorsy side of Colorado and its more energetic city feel.

In Colorado Springs, I’d start with nature. We’d spend time at Garden of the Gods, whether that’s an early morning walk or catching sunset. It never stops feeling surreal. For something more challenging, I’d take them up the Manitou Incline. It’s tough, a little unhinged, and incredibly rewarding. Some places don’t just challenge you, they remind you what you’re capable of.

On the slower side, we’d wander through Cotton Blossom Boutique and grab dinner at Lazy Susan’s. Both actually started as fun finds we highlighted on Dreamscape’s social media just because we loved them, and over time that turned into a small series celebrating local spots that feel special. They’re the kind of places where you linger longer than planned and leave feeling lighter.

Midweek, we’d head to Denver for a shift in energy. Dinner at Nana’s Dim Sum & Dumplings would be a must, followed by walking the city and seeing where the night takes us. If the timing worked, I’d plan a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Some experiences feel iconic every single time.

Overall, my favorite spots are less about checking boxes and more about moments. Good food, meaningful conversation, and places that feel easy to love are what make Colorado feel like home to me.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
After following in the footsteps of four generations of entrepreneurs, it feels most fitting to dedicate this to them. It began with my great-grandmother, who dreamed of running her own restaurant in a small town in South Dakota. That spirit carried forward. My grandmother and my mom each followed their own passions and built businesses of their own, shaping the environment I grew up in.

Each of them contributed something I carry into my work today. My great-grandmother was known for her fire, her bold personality, and her unforgettable recipes. My grandmother and I share a willingness to take risks, which shows up in the way I approach marketing and strategy. My creative vision and eye for design come directly from my mom. Both my grandmother and my mom have played significant roles in my development as a business owner, from practical support like bookkeeping and taxes to the moments when self-doubt creeps in and I need someone who understands the weight of building something from scratch.

Having two women who have lived this and are willing to offer steady, honest support has mattered more than they probably realize. That continuity, knowledge, and quiet encouragement have shaped not just what I build, but how I build it.

Website: https://Dreamscapedigitalmedia.com

Instagram: @dreamscapedigitalmedia, @alymarieofficial

Linkedin: Alyson Pratkelis

Image Credits
Dan Maloit (All photos EXCEPT Blue Dress with Colorado sash Miss World America Stage)

Eddia Jane Watts (ONLY Blue Dress with Colorado sash Miss World America Stage)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.