We had the good fortune of connecting with Hayla Williams and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Hayla, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t a sudden revelation; it unfolded gradually, marked by moments of self-discovery and resilience. As a young adult, I embarked on various career paths, driven by a genuine desire to help others and a deep curiosity about human nature.
The onset of the pandemic was a turning point that shook me to my core. It forced me to pause, reflect, and reconsider what truly mattered in life. It was a wake-up call, reminding me of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of pursuing fulfillment in every aspect of life.
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, I found myself drawn to the tech industry, despite having no clear path forward. I saw it as an opportunity for growth and reinvention. I began to cultivate positive habits, rediscover my creative spark, and reconnect with my innermost self. These small but significant changes helped me shed my fears and embrace the unknown with newfound courage and optimism.
Through this journey of self-discovery, I gained a deeper understanding of my aspirations and values. It inspired me to return to school, where I found a supportive community that encouraged me to pursue my dreams.
Yet, even with a fresh degree in hand, navigating the job market proved challenging. It was during this time that a close connection suggested I explore entrepreneurship by starting my own business. Their belief in me ignited a spark of possibility and purpose.
What began as a humble idea soon blossomed into a profound realization – starting my own business wasn’t just about forging a career; it was about embracing my passions, values, and resilience in the face of adversity. It was about seizing the opportunity to create something meaningful and transformative, both for myself and those around me. And so, my entrepreneurial journey began, filled with hope, determination, and endless possibilities.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The websites and applications I craft reflect a lifetime of understanding people. I immerse myself in the user’s perspective, a distinctive approach that sets me apart. Rather than merely chasing trends, I prioritize defining the brand and target audience, ensuring seamless navigation for every visitor.
Each project I contribute to holds a special place in my design portfolio, showcasing my dedication to user-centric design and adherence to industry standards like Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Despite the challenges along the way, I’ve embraced them as opportunities for growth, buoyed by a supportive community of peers and mentors.
A pivotal lesson I’ve learned is the paramount importance of user-centric design. If users can’t effortlessly navigate a site or app, they simply won’t engage. My role is to actualize entrepreneurs’ visions, crafting endearing and accessible brands that resonate with their consumers.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am a very organized person and love planning itineraries for visiting friends and family!
Day 1:
Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Mountain Shadows Restaurant, known for its hearty mountain-style dishes and stunning views of Pikes Peak.
Mid-Morning: Head to Garden of the Gods, a majestic natural park with towering red rock formations and scenic hiking trails. Spend the morning exploring the park and taking in the breathtaking vistas.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at The Broadmoor’s Restaurant 1858, offering delicious Colorado-inspired cuisine in a rustic setting.
Late Afternoon: Visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings, where you can explore ancient Anasazi cliff dwellings and learn about the region’s Native American history.
Evening: Have dinner at The Rabbit Hole, a quirky eatery serving eclectic dishes in a whimsical underground setting in downtown Colorado Springs.
Day 2:
Morning: Fuel up with breakfast at King’s Chef Diner, a local favorite known for its hearty breakfast burritos and cozy atmosphere.
Mid-Morning: Take a scenic drive up to Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s famous “Fourteeners.” Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the summit.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at Phantom Canyon Brewing Company, a historic brewery housed in a former warehouse, offering craft beers and delicious pub fare.
Late Afternoon: Explore the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum, featuring exhibits on the city’s history, culture, and art.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Famous Steak House, a classic steakhouse known for its aged steaks and elegant ambiance.
Day 3:
Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Over Easy, a charming breakfast spot known for its creative twists on classic dishes.
Mid-Morning: Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, home to a diverse array of animals and offering stunning views of the city below.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Ivywild School, a former elementary school turned into a vibrant community hub with restaurants, breweries, and shops.
Late Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through Old Colorado City, a historic district filled with charming shops, galleries, and cafes.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Warehouse Restaurant and Gallery, housed in a renovated 19th-century building and offering contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Day 4:
Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Wild Goose Meeting House, a cozy cafe serving artisanal coffee and scratch-made pastries.
Mid-Morning: Explore the United States Air Force Academy, including the iconic Cadet Chapel and Visitor Center.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at The Skirted Heifer, known for its gourmet burgers made with locally sourced ingredients.
Late Afternoon: Visit the Olympic Training Center, where you can take a guided tour and learn about the training regimen of elite athletes.
Evening: Have dinner at Paravicini’s Italian Bistro, a lively eatery serving classic Italian dishes with a modern twist.
Day 5:
Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Urban Steam, a hip cafe known for its specialty coffee drinks and creative breakfast options.
Mid-Morning: Spend the morning exploring the Manitou Springs Historic District, browsing through unique shops and art galleries.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Adam’s Mountain Cafe, a cozy eatery known for its organic, locally sourced cuisine and stunning mountain views.
Late Afternoon: Take a scenic drive to Seven Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls nestled in a picturesque canyon. Enjoy a leisurely hike to the falls and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Evening: Wrap up the day with dinner at Ristorante Del Lago at The Broadmoor, offering authentic Italian cuisine in an elegant lakeside setting.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering encouragement of my amazing friends, who I consider to be family. Among them, one individual stands out – Connor Hibbs. As a successful entrepreneur with a thriving photography business, Connor has been a pillar of support and inspiration for me.
Alongside our tight-knit group of friends, Connor has played a pivotal role in my journey, always cheering me on and pushing me to reach for the stars. His belief in my abilities and genuine enthusiasm for my success have been a constant source of strength, especially during challenging times.
Our circle of friends has created a nurturing environment where we uplift and empower each other to pursue our dreams fearlessly. Their love, encouragement, and camaraderie have been the bedrock of my journey as an entrepreneur.
I am immensely grateful for the love and support of my friends-turned-family, and I owe a great deal of my success and growth to their presence in my life. They deserve all the credit and recognition for their invaluable contributions to my journey, and I am forever grateful for their friendship.
Website: https://haylaw.design/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haylawilliams/
Image Credits
All photos by Connor Hibbs Photography