We’re looking forward to introducing you to Paola Herrera Moya. Check out our conversation below.
Paola, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
What I’m most proud of building is my mental health. It took time, courage, and a lot of change to find balance and peace, but being in the right place really does bring a special kind of happiness. Moving to a new country where I didn’t fully speak the language or understand how things worked was challenging, but it taught me strength, patience, and the importance of choosing environments that truly align with who you are.
I’m also proud of my ability to connect creatively and genuinely with people. Whether it’s coordinating VIP groups at SCAD’s Gryphon Tea Room or being part of the energy at the newly opened Marriott rooftop, I love bringing warmth and creativity into every experience. There’s a lot of heart behind what I do, even if most people don’t see it, and that’s what makes it all worthwhile.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Paola Herrera, a Creative Experience Designer with a Master of Fine Arts in Production Design from SCAD. After completing my degree, I found a new passion in hospitality, an industry that allows me to merge creativity, service, and human connection.
What makes my story special is the mix of creativity and hospitality. I’ve worked with world class hotels like Mashpi Lodge and Hotel Casa Gangotena, part of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World and Relais & Châteaux, as well as SCAD’s Gryphon Tea Room. My journey from Ecuador to the U.S. has been full of growth, challenges, and discovery, and it’s taught me that creativity and kindness are the most powerful tools for connecting with people, no matter where you are.
Working in hospitality while embracing my creative side inspires me to craft experiences that go beyond visuals, moments that make guests feel seen, appreciated, and truly connected. As Assistant Manager of the Food & Beverage Department at Lavender Rooftop Kitchen and Bar in the AC Hotel by Marriott, I help shape the atmosphere of a vibrant, newly opened hotel while ensuring every guest experience is thoughtful and memorable.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed that the key to success was following a single path. Even in my past years, I thought that by studying Production Design, I had to end up in film and television to truly have “achieved” my goal of being successful.
Recently, I’ve realized that I was rushing the process that led me here. Life isn’t about choosing just one direction, we are ever changing beings, drawn to new passions and opportunities. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about reaching a single goal; it’s about the happiness and peace we feel doing what we love.
This realization taught me that I don’t only have to pursue creative design; I also love serving, leading, and connecting with people. That is my version of success, embracing multiple paths, exploring diverse passions, and letting them guide me toward the next chapter of growth and fulfillment.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that’s held me back the most has been the fear of not doing enough, of feeling like I wasn’t moving fast enough or achieving what I “should” by a certain age or stage in life. Being surrounded by so many creative people at times felt overwhelming, because it’s easy to compare yourself. For a long time, I measured success by external standards instead of my own joy and growth.
But over time, I’ve learned to slow down and trust the process, to understand that every chapter, even the uncertain ones, is shaping me into who I’m meant to be. Letting go of that fear has allowed me to embrace change with gratitude and to see success not as a finish line, but as a feeling of peace in what I’m creating and who I’m becoming.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
I’d say the public version of me is real, but it’s the most polished, put together part of who I am. It’s the side that leads, creates, and shows up with a smile, even when things get tough, to make people feel seen, supported, and valued.
But there’s also the quieter version of me, the one who needs time to recharge, who questions, who feels deeply, and who’s still figuring things out. I’m real, but I express myself differently depending on the moment and the space I’m in.
Over time, I’ve learned that authenticity doesn’t mean showing everything; it means showing up with honesty, kindness, and intention, whether I’m leading a team, creating, or simply being me.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Right now, I’m investing in building a career that blends creativity and hospitality, learning to lead, serve, and design experiences that leave a lasting impact. It’s not something that will bring instant rewards, but I know the skills, connections, and understanding I’m cultivating now will pay off in ways I can’t fully see yet.
I’m also growing Pup-Parazzi, my pet photography Studio, and exploring how to expand it in new creative directions. Both paths take time, patience, and persistence, but in 7–10 years, I believe they’ll allow me to create experiences and opportunities that are truly meaningful, both for myself and the people I touch along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://paolaherreramoya.wixsite.com/productiondesign
- Instagram: paocookie
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paolaherrera-productiondesigner/
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