We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ximena Hoyos a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Ximena, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
I consider myself a very creative person and try to nurture that in every way possible. I’ve always have been eager for creativity and have been able to find it in many different forms. In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining and fostering creativity has become a challenge for many. However, there are timeless sources of inspiration that have proven to be essential for keeping creativity alive in my world: nature, travel, and visual experiences. I have found that by actively engaging with these elements I have fostered my imaginative spirits ever since I was a little kid.
Being brought up in a house where exploration was an important part of our development -my father is an Engineering Geologist and my mother, a Sociologist with a loving free spirit- I was able to enjoy nature, not only on our weekend travels, but accompanying my father on his expedition trips in nature with his students as a university Professor and immersing ourselves in the most remote locations of our beautiful country, Colombia. The calming rustle of leaves, the gentle sway of trees, the mesmerizing dance of sunlight on water and rocks all created a canvas upon which my mind paints and creates new ideas. Nature has always provided me with a sanctuary where my mind can wander and explore, fostering a fertile ground for creative thinking.
Ever since I can remember, I have loved and enjoyed traveling. It has always opened up a world of possibilities and has served as a catalyst for creativity for me. Exploring new cultures, landscapes, and perspectives has broaden my understanding of the world and has challenged my preconceived notions. The exposure to diverse environments has always stimulated me and has encouraged innovative thinking and problem-solving in my career and life.
Visual stimuli has played a crucial role in igniting my creativity. Whether through art, photography, immersive experiences, or simply by walking the streets of the city or town in which I am, the visual realm has served as a direct channel to my imagination and creativity. Visually engaging activities, such as observing intricate details in everyday life, awaken and light up the dormant aspects of creativity in my daily life.
In a world dominated by screens and schedules, preserving and nurturing creativity requires a deliberate effort to engage with the elements that inspire us. For me nature, travel, and visual experiences serve as powerful catalysts, breathing life into my creative spirit. By embracing these sources of inspiration, I break free from the monotony of daily life and embark on a journey of self-discovery, innovation and lots of creativity whether it’s in my mixology journey with Gin & Tonic Queen, in my photography or in my Interior Design business.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Both of my businesses have woven together a tapestry of creativity, innovation, and unforgettable moments. I’d love to spread the word about the remarkable experiences and events curated by Gin & Tonic Queen and H-photo & Design, inviting our readers into a world where the ordinary transforms into the extraordinary.
Although I’ve had a camera in my hands since I was 9 years old and only discovered my love for Gin & Tonic in 2017, both of my business were born with the challenges brought forth by the unprecedented 2020 pandemic. In this tale of adversity, Gin & Tonic Queen and H-photo & Design, emerged not as casualties but as products of the transformative power of creativity and determination.
Gin & Tonic Queen stands as a beacon of sophistication and delight in the realm of Gin experiences from Gin tastings to Gin Flights and Gin Mixology classes both in Corporate and private settings.
At Gin & Tonic Queen we reach everyday to master the art of Gin mixology, elevating the humble Gin and Tonic into an exquisite symphony of flavors. The events hosted by Gin & Tonic Queen are a celebration of craftsmanship, and uniquely tailored events offering enthusiasts and newcomers alike the opportunity to explore the nuanced world of premium gins, tonics and cocktails made with this fabulous spirit.
H-photo & Design stands as a testament to the power of creative synergy. Beyond conventional Interior Design, we seamlessly blend our artistic creativity with the captivating world of photography. This fusion goes beyond aesthetics, capturing the very essence of spaces, events, and the intimate moments that define our lives.
In the realm of family photography, H-photo & Design shines as architects of timeless memories. With a keen eye for emotion and connection, we create family portraits that go beyond mere images. Each photograph becomes a chapter in the story of a family, preserving the love, laughter, and shared experiences that define the unique bonds between its members.
H-photo & Design also transforms spaces into galleries, curating art pieces that resonate with the character of a home or office. Through my lens, ordinary moments become extraordinary art, whether it’s a breathtaking landscape, a candid family portrait, or an abstract composition. These art pieces don’t merely adorn walls; they infuse spaces with a distinctive personality and a touch of the extraordinary.
In a world where the boundaries between disciplines are increasingly blurred, H-photo & Design stands as a beacon of innovation, merging the worlds of Interior Design and Photography with unparalleled finesse. We invite our readers to step into a world where every space tells a unique story, and every photograph is a brushstroke on the canvas of their lives.
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?
My journey has been shaped by my passion for hospitality, my adept networking skills, and my innate ability to connect with people. For those starting their journey, the key advice is to nurture and cultivate these qualities continually. Immerse yourself in the world you love, actively build a diverse network, and hone your interpersonal skills. Embrace learning as a lifelong journey, and let your passion be the guiding force that propels you forward in the ever-evolving landscape of the hospitality industry. My unwavering passion for hospitality has been the driving force behind my journey. This intrinsic love for creating memorable experiences and catering to the needs of others has not only shaped my professional endeavors in Interior Design, but also in my Gin & Tonic Queen business, and has also infused my work with authenticity and genuine care. To further develop and enhance this quality, continue to immerse yourself in your industry whichever it might be. Stay updated on industry trends, seek out opportunities for hands-on experiences, and cultivate a mindset that prioritizes guest/client satisfaction. Attend workshops, participate in relevant forums, and engage with mentors who can provide valuable insights to fuel your passion.
Networking has played a crucial role in expanding my horizons and opening doors to new opportunities. Building meaningful connections within the Hospitality & Interior Design industry and beyond has allowed me to stay abreast of industry developments, gain valuable insights, and establish mutually beneficial partnerships. For those early in their journey, focus on building a diverse network. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and actively engage with peers and mentors. Be genuine in your interactions, as authenticity fosters lasting connections. Leverage social media platforms to connect with professionals, share your insights, and contribute to relevant discussions. Remember, a robust network not only provides support but also serves as a source of inspiration and collaborative potential.
My natural ability to connect with people has undoubtedly been a cornerstone of my success. The genuine interest I take in others, coupled with effective communication skills, has allowed me to build strong relationships with colleagues, clients, and partners. To refine and enhance these interpersonal skills, continue to seek opportunities for personal development. Attend workshops or courses on effective communication, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution. Actively listen to others, be empathetic, and strive to understand different perspectives. Remember, being a people person goes beyond just professional relationships; it’s about creating a positive and inclusive environment for everyone you encounter.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The decision my parents made to travel abroad to the United States, driven by my father’s scholarship to study in Arizona, was a transformative choice that transcended geographical boundaries. This pivotal decision not only shaped the trajectory of our family’s life but also instilled in m0y family a profound appreciation for discovery and cultural exploration.
First and foremost, the significance of my father’s scholarship underscores the pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence within our family. His commitment to advancing his education in a foreign land not only spoke to his personal aspirations but also set an inspiring example for the value of continuous learning and growth. This decision laid the groundwork for a familial ethos centered around education as a catalyst for personal and collective advancement.
Beyond the academic realm, the choice to move thousands of miles away from home reflected a bold embrace of diversity and a thirst for cultural understanding. The United States, with its rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, became not just a destination for academic pursuits but a canvas upon which our family could paint a vibrant tableau of experiences. This exposure to a different culture opened doors to a world of perspectives, broadening our family’s horizons and fostering a global mindset.
Furthermore, the decision exemplified my parents’ desire to provide my brother and me with an upbringing that transcends the confines of familiarity. The willingness to immerse ourselves in a completely different culture demonstrated an adventurous spirit and a commitment to enriching our lives with a diversity of experiences. It was an investment in the kind of education that extends beyond textbooks, encompassing the invaluable lessons learned through interactions with people from varied backgrounds.
This choice to travel abroad, rooted in the pursuit of education and a thirst for cultural exploration, has likely left an indelible mark on my worldview. It has instilled in me a resilience to adapt to new environments, a curiosity to understand diverse perspectives, and a recognition of the boundless possibilities that lie beyond my comfort zone.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ginandtonicqueen.com
https://ximenahoyos.smugmug.com/ - Instagram: @gin.and.tonic.queen
@h_photo_nyc - Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ximena-hoyos-leed-ap-id-and-c-81888b6/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/gin-and-tonic-queen-new-york
https://www.yelp.com/biz/h-photo-and-design-new-york
Image Credits
Image credit: @h_photo_nyc
