With the second edition of the Mommy Vents Discussion Series’ amazing panel discussion on Friday (recap coming soon!), I got a little off track with posting. Since tomorrow is Business Women’s Day, it’s only right that we celebrate our next mom in the “How She Does It” series.
This month, MyMommyVents gives you an inside look at the lives of everyday moms who are juggling it all. From breastfeeding advocates and authors to designers, these women aren’t just changing diapers, they’re changing the world.
From planning next season’s wardrobe to finding the perfect recipe for dinner, women everywhere have fallen in love with Pinterest. One mom is using the network to create much more than her dream closet.
Annapolis, Maryland based graphic designer and mom Darin Gilliam is the mom behind 19FIFTYTHREE, a boutique and design company. After becoming an Independent Designer four years ago, Darin developed the brand last year.
“19FIFTYTHREE was created as a place where I could showcase my work as a Graphic Designer, collaborate with other creatives and artists and sell some of the pieces I design.”
Drawing on the visuals her clients are attracted to, she uses Pintrest to connect with their vision for the project.
“I love Pinterest, so I usually start with building an inspiration board and doing a little research on what my client is in need of. I do a lot of sketching in my mind; creating ideas and layouts in my mind before I put it to paper or computer. This helps me think through certain design styles without actually laying it out, but sometimes you got to pull out that paper and pen!”
Mom to a little girl named Evan with “super cute dimples,” Darin balances motherhood with creating and designing.
“I enjoy setting my own rules and creating my own schedule. Our daughter is in daycare part-time and home with me part-time so I’m able to get the best of both worlds as a mom and an entrepreneur. I can spend quality time with her as well as build my business and collaborate with other creatives.”
So how does she do it?
“I am honestly still figuring this out. Evan is in daycare part-time and takes pretty long naps, which gives me anywhere from 20-25 hours a week to work. Those naps can be crucial! I try to have all my work done so that when I pick her up from daycare, I can give her my full attention and not trying to sneak and look at emails. She has a pretty consistent bedtime, so once she is tucked in for the night, I get back to work for a few hours. For me, the most important part of finding balance is finding time in between to just relax. It’s amazing what 30 mins a day to just be with yourself can do for you.”
To find more of Darin’s design work or to pick up that cute bag for yourself, check out 19FIFTYTHREE on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest @19fiftythree, or connect with her on a more personal note on her blog at DarinMichelle.com.
- Why Every Birth Needs A Doula - February 10, 2021
- How to Protect Your Peace During White Thuggery - January 7, 2021
- 10 Moms to Follow Into the New Year - December 30, 2020
