𝑼𝑯𝑴 interview with entrepreneur, Chiquita!

Photo credit: Crystale of EYEImagery
Photo credit: Crystale of EYEImagery

Welcome, Chiquita, and how are you doing?

I’m doing great, thank you!

Some people are just born to create, as it is embedded in their DNA. At what point in your life did you realize you were creative?

 I would have to say in college at Virginia State University. Hail State! 💙🧡

When I decided to switch my major to Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Textiles, Apparel, and Merchandising Management, that’s when it really clicked. We were sewing, doing fashion shows, and preparing full presentations, and I realized creativity was truly embedded in my DNA. Even after college, I continued to reconstruct clothes for myself for special events. Even during my time in the classroom, I still had my students’ doing projects, designing shirts, and creating custom items throughout the years. Although life took me on another career path, creativity has always stayed connected to me throughout my journey. In 2019, I found my passion again when I started my business, and it has been a part of my life ever since.  

Tell us how “A Touch of Lynay Creations” began and what inspired the brand.

A Touch of Lynay Creations began with just drinkware, custom tumblers, and cups, and I quickly fell in love with the process of making something personal for people. The positive feedback and support encouraged me to expand into apparel once COVID-19 started a few months in. From there, coasters, totes, hats, and more. What began as a small creative outlet during uncertain times has grown into a full brand built on love, purpose, and the joy of a full experience of Lynay Creations. 

You create handmade custom crafts. Tell us more about the products you offer.

I offer everything from t-shirts, hoodies, long sleeves, koozies, mugs, tumblers, water bottles, hats, journals, tote bags, and blankets to custom attire for business needs, family reunions, vacations, weddings, and homecomings. If it can be pressed on, I am here for it. And if there is something you have in mind that you have not seen me create yet, just ask. I may have been waiting for the perfect chance to try it.  

What has the entrepreneurial journey been like for you so far?

 It is work! If you think it is an overnight success, it’s not. This journey has opened doors for me and stretched me in ways I never expected. I know I am still learning and growing every single day. Every thank you, every smile, and every repeat customer reminds me why I do this. At times, I feel like my mind moves faster than my hands. The ideas are always there, but time is not always on my side. Balancing work, my business, and a personal life is a journey, but I am committed to making it all work.  

What do you enjoy most about helping people bring their visions to life through your creations?

Every single thing! There is nothing like someone choosing me, because my customers and clients could have gone anywhere, but they chose my business. I love seeing them happy with their creation, knowing I delivered exactly what they envisioned. I am not just selling a product; I am offering an experience with excellent customer service, always at the heart of it.  

When you’re not busy, how do you practice self-care?

 Whew… I am working on this one. I love spending time in my office. It may not be “self-care” in the traditional sense, but it is my safe space where I can zone out and create freely. Lately, I have realized how important it is to take time just for myself. That might look like binge-watching my favorite shows, enjoying quiet time, listening to music, staying connected to people who pour into me, or treating myself to something nice without guilt. I’ve learned that rest is not a reward; it is a requirement.  

Thank you so much, Chiquita!!

Check out A Touch of Lynay Creations Here:

Website: https://atouchoflynaycreations.com
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/atouchoflynaycreations
Facebook: A Touch of Lynay Creations
TikTok: lynay_creates

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