Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kelly Huskins. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Kelly, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
Growing up, my mom was all about perfection. She aimed for it in everything, and for a kid who just wanted to create, it was a bit much. I didn’t care about being perfect; I loved the whole creative process. Whether it was experimenting with things or dreaming about turning my creations into gifts or even starting my own business, I was all in.
The turning point happened when my mom took up a stained glass art class. I remember watching her work while she was scolding me for something else. Her pursuit of perfection was on full display. Later, when my parents were away, I grabbed her stained glass tools, a lion pattern, and some glass, and went for it. The result? Two patterns waiting for the next steps.
When my parents returned, they were shocked. My mom, fixated on imperfections, gave way to my dad stepping in before my little spirit was crushed. He not only showed me the next step of how to solder but ignited a passion in me that hasn’t died down since.
Over the years, my mom and I had many clashes over her idea of perfection. But I finally came to realize it was okay for her to seek perfection while I just created from the heart. It didn’t mean I was wrong for not being perfect or that she didn’t love me. I embraced being perfectly imperfect.
Creativity has been my constant, shifting through different mediums. What I once saw as clashes with my mom, I now see as love nudges, pushing me to be better because, deep down, she believed in me. Sometimes, I’d catch her showcasing my creations to her friends and boasting about me when she thought I wasn’t around.
With her voice in my head, a lot of my journey has been about learning to embrace who I am and that’s its not just “ok” to be me, it’s what the world needs. Life isn’t perfect. It doesn’t fit in a neat little box. It’s messy. But just like a stained glass window, the results are a gorgeous display of imperfect pieces skillfully placed to create a perfect masterpiece. We all have our unique mosaic of experiences, and in embracing that, find the strength to overcome, build our own masterpiece of confidence and self-esteem. The world needs you just as you are.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
At the heart of Whimsykel Designs beats a passion for creativity that knows no bounds. As the driving force behind this venture, I immerse myself in the enchanting world of decoupage, where the ordinary transforms into something extraordinary.
Whimsykel Designs is not just about creating art; it’s about curating an experience. Our decoupage paper line is a testament to the fusion of imagination and craftsmanship. Each design tells a story, inviting individuals to embark on their own creative journey. It’s more than just paper – it’s a medium for self-expression.
What sets our brand apart is the commitment to whimsy and uniqueness. In a world that often leans towards uniformity, Whimsykel Designs celebrates the joy of embracing the unconventional. The decoupage paper line, in particular, is a canvas for personal narratives. It’s about bringing a touch of magic to the everyday, whether through DIY projects, home decor, or personalized gifts.
The most exciting aspect for me is witnessing how these designs come to life in the hands of our community. It’s about sparking creativity and inspiring individuals to explore their artistic side. Whimsykel Designs is more than a brand; it’s a shared celebration of creativity, individuality, and the beauty found in the unexpected.
I want people to know that Whimsykel Designs is an open invitation to infuse their lives with a dash of whimsy. It’s an ode to the belief that art is not confined to galleries but can be a vibrant part of our daily existence. Through our decoupage paper line and beyond, we aim to redefine art as a personal, accessible, and delightful experience for everyone.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge stand out as the most impactful:
1. **Resilience:** The ability to bounce back from challenges and setbacks has been crucial. In the face of clashes with my mother’s pursuit of perfection and the evolving nature of my creative pursuits, resilience kept me going. It’s about acknowledging failures as part of the process and using them as stepping stones toward growth.
2. **Curiosity and Experimentation:** Embracing curiosity and a willingness to experiment has been a driving force in my creative endeavors. From a young age, I was drawn to the joy of the process rather than fixating on the end result. This curiosity allowed me to explore different mediums and find my true creative calling. My advice would be to stay curious, don’t be afraid to try new things, and see where your passions lead you.
3. **Openness to Imperfection:** Learning to embrace imperfection was a game-changer. The clashes with my mother over perfection pushed me to understand that it’s okay not to be flawless. My advice to those starting their journey is to let go of the pressure to be perfect. Embrace the beauty of imperfection, learn from mistakes, and use them as opportunities for growth.
For those early in their journey, I recommend:
1. **Cultivate Resilience:** Understand that challenges are a natural part of any journey. Develop the resilience to navigate through setbacks, learn from them, and use them as catalysts for improvement.
2. **Explore and Experiment:** Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Try different things, explore new ideas, and let curiosity guide your creative process. It’s through experimentation that you’ll discover your true passions.
3. **Embrace Imperfection:** Perfection is a lofty goal that often hinders creativity. Embrace imperfection as a unique aspect of your journey. Learn from mistakes, iterate on your work, and recognize that growth often comes from the unexpected.
Remember, your journey is a personal exploration, and the path to success is often paved with the lessons learned from challenges and the joy found in the creative process.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is someone who shares a passion for embracing creativity, individuality, and the joy found in the unconventional. Characteristics that make an ideal client for Whimsykel Designs include:
1. **Appreciation for Whimsy:** Individuals who appreciate the whimsical and unique aspects of art, valuing the beauty found in the unexpected.
2. **DIY Enthusiasts:** DIY enthusiasts who find joy in creating and crafting, using our decoupage paper line as a canvas for their own imaginative projects.
3. **Celebrators of Individuality:** Those who celebrate individuality and view art as a personal expression rather than a rigid form, understanding the charm of imperfections.
4. **Curious Explorers:** Individuals with a curiosity to explore different creative mediums and experiment with diverse artistic styles, allowing them to discover their own unique preferences.
5. **Seekers of Everyday Magic:** People who believe in infusing a touch of magic into their daily lives through art, whether it’s in home decor, personalized gifts, or other creative pursuits.
Ultimately, my ideal client is someone who sees Whimsykel Designs not just as a brand but as a partner in their creative journey, a source of inspiration, and a platform to express their own whimsical creativity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://whimsykel.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whimsykel
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whimsykel
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/whimsykel
Image Credits
Heike’s Furniture Art JJ Bean Collection Painted Paradise by Jessie Redo & Renew by Rachel Jill’s Creation Re-Jen-erate Furniture Restoration Calle’s ReDesign
