Meet Maisie Navarro | CEO, Denver-based Graphic Designer & Branding Specialist
We had the good fortune of connecting with Maisie Navarro and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Maisie, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
The most important decision for my success was leveraging my background in business management and finance alongside my design expertise. This allows me to go beyond creating beautiful visuals. I can truly understand my clients’ business goals and translate them into design solutions that contribute to their bottom line. By understanding their marketing budget and suggesting cost-effective tools and resources, I can create a comprehensive branding strategy that delivers maximum impact. At GRAPHtography, we leverage strong relationships with printers across the country, including right here in Denver. This allows us to offer our clients competitive pricing on printed marketing materials. This frees up their budget to invest in other crucial areas, like website development or strategic online advertising campaigns.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets you apart from others?
My background in business management fuels this process. By delving into a brand’s story, I don’t just learn about their product or service – I understand the behind the scenes aspect of each business and the people behind it. This deeper understanding allows me to capture the essence of a brand and craft visuals that evoke the desired emotions in their customers. It’s a strategic approach to visual storytelling, informed by both creative vision and business acumen.
What are you most proud of or excited about?
The birth of GRAPHtography fills me with pride. Launched just months before the pandemic, this wasn’t an easy start. But resilience is in my DNA, and I persevered, helping businesses navigate those challenging times. My journey has taken me across the US, allowing me to consult and design directly at client locations. From trade show displays to storefront signage, I’ve embraced a hands-on approach, relishing the close collaboration.
GRAPHtography is constantly evolving. I’m excited to experiment with new techniques and methodologies, pushing the boundaries of digital storytelling. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the impact my work has on others, igniting emotions and sparking conversations.
How did you get to where you are today professionally? Was it easy?
My journey wasn’t easy. Mastering both traditional art and digital tools required dedication and continuous learning, over the years. There were moments of self-doubt (imposter syndrome), but an unwavering belief in myself fueled my perseverance – I have never been one to give up.
What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
Experimentation is key to growth, but so is holding onto the core identity that makes your work distinct. This journey has taught me the importance of staying true to my core values. It’s a balancing act, and sometimes that balance is nudged by unexpected sources. My children, for instance, have been instrumental in my artistic evolution. Their honest feedback, even when challenging, can spark fresh perspectives.
What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I believe in the transformative power of art as a bridge for connection and expression. Through GRAPHtography, I weave stories of resilience, igniting creativity in others and celebrating the enduring spirit of my clients, the lifeblood of this business.
My journey is a testament to the power of nurturing a passion and relentlessly pursuing artistic expression. It’s the embodiment of ‘Do What You Love,’ and through education and my services, I empower other entrepreneurs to do the same.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For an epic week, I’d start by immersing my best friend in Denver’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene. We’d kick things off with dinner at one of the city’s top-notch eateries, indulging in everything from gourmet cuisine to down-home comfort food. Then, we’d hit the town, exploring Denver’s EDM scene, dancing it out to the beat of the city.
But the real adventure begins when we leave the city behind and head for the Rockies. We’d pack up our gear and set out for a camping trip surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature. Each day, we’d lace up our hiking boots and hit the trails, exploring rugged mountain terrain and soaking in panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. As we trek through the wilderness, surrounded by towering pines and the sound of rushing streams, my creative juices would flow freely, inspired by the raw energy and tranquility of the Rockies. By the end of our week-long adventure, we’d return to the city refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on whatever the world throws our way.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My godmother, Ellaina Nork (aka Momoo), was not just a godmother to me; she was a second mother, a guiding light whose influence shaped not only my creativity but also my character. She was the cornerstone of my creative journey, igniting my passion and nurturing my talents since I was young. Her unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my artistic endeavors. From introducing me to various forms of creativity like sewing, crafts, and decor, to fostering my love for sketching and writing, Momoo always believed in my potential.
Her pride in my work and her joy in witnessing the evolution of GRAPHtography fueled my determination to excel. Though she left us three years ago, her legacy lives on as a constant source of inspiration in my life. I am forever indebted to her for instilling in me the courage to pursue my passions and for imparting the invaluable lesson that creativity and love know no bounds. In her, I found solace, understanding, and a bond that transcended the conventional boundaries of family. Her passing left a void that can never be filled, but her legacy of love and guidance continues to resonate within me, shaping my actions and fueling my aspirations.
Momoo’s impact on my life cannot be overstated. She remains forever etched in my heart, a cherished memory, and a beacon of love that guides me through life’s journey.
Website: https://www.graphtography.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graphtographycom/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/graphtography/about/?viewAsMember=true
Twitter: http://x.com/GRAPHtography
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GraphTography
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/graphtography-denver-2?osq=graphtography
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GRAPHtography
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