Meet Teresa Shishim | Graphic Designer/Illustrator

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

Hi Teresa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I worked for non-profits for years, wearing multiple hats and honing a diverse array of skills. One of those that I enjoyed the most was graphic design. About one year after I became a parent, I realized I wanted a more flexible schedule for our kiddo. I told my husband I was going to quit my job and go freelance–which totally freaked him out! I did it and have been at it for over nine years now.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I love to incorporate texture and depth into my graphic art projects and illustrations. Watercolor is my medium of choice (this week) and I’m always working on evolving my signature ‘style’.

My journey has ranged from pixel pushing to satisfy the whims of some clients all the way to gaining the full trust and confidence of others, allowing me the freedom to create branding materials and illustrations that strategically target their desired audience–and look good.

I am proud to say that I now don’t have to take every job that comes my way. I have created criteria that ensure my clients and I are a good fit for one another–and I am able to turn down projects that don’t fit.

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 make my home in a small town with a gorgeous view of the mountains, a long growing season, and a fabulous art scene. Local eateries boast farm-to-table fare, and we have a plethora of wineries to imbibe in. When friends come calling, I take them on eBike tours from the local goat farm to get fresh chèvre to a riverside orchard where you can pick your own fruit to the mesa top wineries where we can sit and sip and take in the views.

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 Shoutout is dedicated to my husband, for having faith in my jump to freelance work, and all of my clients who place their trust in my ability to make things look good.

Website: https://www.yokadesign.com

Instagram: @YokaDesign

Facebook: @YokaDesign