Meet Ariane Dray

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ariane Dray. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ariane, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?

I’ve always been a naturally optimistic and smiley person—so much so that some of my friends often wonder how I manage to stay so positive all the time. But beneath that cheerful exterior, I’ve realized that my optimism also serves as a defence mechanism. As an introvert-extrovert mix—leaning more towards introversion (about 85% introvert to 15% extrovert)—I can get easily overwhelmed. When I’m nervous, I tend to smile and laugh, and surprisingly, it usually works in my favour, as people tend to respond positively to that energy.

What I cherish most is the intimacy of allowing someone to see the less polished sides of me; the moments when I’m not always “on.” My positivity isn’t rooted in naivety, though. I genuinely prefer the way it makes me feel. While there are certainly difficult things in life that are out of our control (trust me, I’ve had my share of frustrations), I find that my smile inevitably returns after my exasperated outbursts. When I laugh at someone’s bad jokes, I truly mean it! I believe in seeking joy wherever I can and love the idea of spreading that feeling. If I can help someone else feel secure and positive, it’s incredibly fulfilling for me.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I am a designer and freelancer based in Montreal, Quebec, and I embarked on my freelance journey in 2018 after spending nine rewarding years in some of the most prestigious agencies in the country. My focus is on constructive collaboration and hard work, ensuring that I respond effectively to my clients’ unique needs. Over the past fifteen years, I’ve had the privilege of working with over sixty dedicated and inspiring clients, helping them improve their brand positioning and effectively communicate their brand spirit to their audiences.

What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to contribute to the success of my clients in a meaningful way. I truly enjoy delving into each project and finding relevant, creative solutions that elevate their brand. My strong background in branding allows me to approach projects with a strategic mindset, informed by my two degrees in design and marketing. I believe that design is not just about aesthetics but also about storytelling and connection.

As a freelancer, I am lucky to have a flexible and agile structure that allows me to tailor my services to meet the specific needs of my clients while maintaining a focus on authentic and collaborative contributions. I am grateful that my clients and collaborators consider me committed, professional, and possessing a positive attitude, which I believe are essential in building long-lasting relationships.

Looking ahead, I am particularly excited about my charcoal drawing series titled “Energy.” This project brings me immense joy as I focus on capturing the energies that radiate from people. Through this work, I aim to explore the connections we share and the emotions that drive us. It’s a deeply fulfilling endeavour that complements my design work and enriches my creative journey.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, I would highlight three qualities that have been particularly impactful:

My degree in marketing: This foundation has been invaluable in my design career. Understanding that design must have a purpose and a communication goal is crucial for effectiveness. My background in marketing has allowed me to keep these objectives at the forefront of my design process, ensuring that my work resonates with its intended audience.

My work ethic: I have always believed in the importance of hard work. I never wanted to settle for being just good enough; I strive to put my all into everything I do. While I might need to discuss this dedication with my therapist at times (haha), I genuinely enjoy going all-in on a project. This commitment often translates into higher-quality outcomes and deeper satisfaction.

My creativity: While I’ve always felt like an imposter—often due to comments from teachers and professors telling me I wouldn’t be good enough to succeed—I’ve come to recognize my talent and natural sensibility for creativity. I know I bring valuable skills to the table, and this realization empowers me to pursue my passions and take risks in my work. To anyone facing similar doubts or naysayers, I say: tell them to suck it! Trust in your abilities and keep pushing forward.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to seek out educational opportunities, embrace hard work, and nurture your creativity. Surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up, and don’t let anyone else dictate your potential. Your journey is uniquely yours—own it!

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Absolutely! I’m actively seeking collaborators as I transition into a new structure of freelance work. I aim to partner with creatives in complementary fields, allowing us to offer a wider range of services to our clients. This collaborative approach has been incredibly enriching, and I truly value the diverse perspectives and skills that different creatives bring to the table.

I am particularly interested in connecting with motivated and trustworthy individuals who share a passion for collaboration and creativity. If you’re someone who is eager to explore new ideas and projects together, I would love to hear from you! Please feel free to reach out via my website or connect with me on social media.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Corporate photo: Curious Montreal
https://www.curiousmontreal.com/

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Leadership Development
Empathy Unlocked: Understanding how to Develop Emotional Intelligence

“Empathy is the starting point for creating a community and taking action. It’s the impetus

Productivity
Where do you get your work ethic from?

We’ve all heard the phrase “work hard, play hard,” but where does our work ethic

Productivity
Boosting Productivity Through Self-Care

When you have a never-ending to-do list it can feel irresponsible to engage in self-care,