Daily Inspiration: Meet Natalie Alfaro

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Alfaro.

Hi Natalie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I had always known when I was little that I would be working in a career where I can use my creative abilities. Twenty-three years later, here I am, working the dream job I’ve always wanted! I didn’t always know I wanted to be a graphic designer, but once I got to UCF, I impulsively applied to their Graphic Design program and got accepted. Once I started my first semester, I knew this was the correct path for myself. After four years of great education, two internships and hard work, I graduated with a Bachelor’s in Graphic Design. Immediately after, I got a job offer for an online feminist shop and had the opportunity to create apparel designs, stickers, and social assets. As great as it was being able to create for a good cause, I knew I wanted to do more than just apparel for one company. Half a year later, I’m now working at a design agency, freelancing part-time working with the best clients, and helping sustainable, vegan small businesses with the same motives as myself!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely not. I’d like to think it was, but every journey always has its hardships. UCF’s Graphic Design program did a great job in preparing me for the real world (shoutout to Victor Davila), but we can never be prepared for everything that’s to come. When COVID-19 started, it was right at the time when I was graduating and it was very stressful looking for a job since all the agencies weren’t hiring at the moment. I was afraid of freelancing full-time because you never know how many clients you’ll have consistently each month which can be stressful. But once I started posting my work on social media and got a client here and there, it snowballed and kept getting more and more work. I am forever grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and goes to show that it’s definitely possible to start your own business and learn along the way! Fake it till you make it, right?

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a graphic designer and specialize in brand identities for small businesses or hardworking entrepreneurs. Being a freelance graphic designer means that I can choose my clients and create the type of work for businesses who truly care about their customers/clients. I normally create logos, social media assets, package designs, flyers, business cards, etc. My type of work is heavily influenced with my spirituality, my love for the sun and moon, and creating ethereal/soft-like designs. I am most proud of my progress and improvements and not being afraid of getting myself out there. What sets my business apart is that I have an in-depth client process and take the time to learn more about your business, your goals, your competitors, and your interests before I even start designing. It is so important to do research and really getting to know your client because that is what will make the designs a perfect fit for their business.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I recently just joined an organization called Kinetic-Her, which is a great outlet for women to find mentors that are in your field and help develop connections from there. I had my first virtual meeting with my mentor and it was so refreshing hearing advice from someone who has gone through the same journey as myself and giving me her insights on where to go from here. When it comes to networking, I would suggest not being afraid to reach out to other creatives or anyone you look up to on social media and start connections through there. You’ll be surprised how open people are to starting a community and helping others in the same career field as you!

Contact Info:

• Email: nataliealfarodesigns@gmail.com
• Website: www.nataliealfaro.co
• Instagram: @nataliealfaro.co

Image Credits
Lynette Ortiz Photography