Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Quintana.
Hi Alyssa, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I work full-time as a hiring and administrative manager for a clinic spread across the state of Florida. I am also a 10-year Zumba instructor and the founder of my creative business—all while living in an RV!
I believe it all starts with my ADD—it truly is my superpower—and my dissatisfaction with the typical Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. lifestyle. One day, I decided to make a change and actually live the life I wanted. I became a Zumba instructor, which helped me lose 75 lbs. This is when I realized I could accomplish anything I set my mind to!
Fast forward 10 years and I am currently renovating an RV in the Ocala Forest to transform it into an Enchanted Cottage. I work full-time to support my passions, which include running my own business called PunkPeonyCreations. It’s a botanic boutique that offers eclectic oddities and curiosities such as spells, herbariums, terrariums, and more. I also create custom floral crowns for renaissance fairs, music festivals, and photoshoots. In addition, I paint oil portraits of people and pets on the side. I am never satisfied with just idling away my time; I believe time can be anyone’s superpower! My life goal is not only to achieve as much as I can but also to inspire others to do the same. If you feel compelled to pursue something, even if it’s inspired by my art, go ahead and DO IT. If more artists would support, encourage, and promote each other, our world would be a happier and more fulfilling place.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My biggest obstacle has always been myself. I tend to overthink every decision, no matter how big or small, to the point where my ideas fizzle out. I’ve had to learn to trust my initial intuition and let it shine! Some days, it’s easier to quiet the mind and follow my passion, but other days, I have to remind myself of what I want and what my goals are and make something happen. It’s been a lot of trial and error, but meeting more creators and artists has been a godsend! We all understand the constant work and struggle required for this, so the support is always there.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am deeply inspired by flowers – their diverse styles, rich meanings, and captivating beauty. I initially began creating custom floral crowns on Etsy for weddings, photoshoots, renaissance fairs, and more, but I desired to expand my craft. This led me to delve into extensive research on different flowers and to start crafting spells and incantations based on their symbolic meanings. This has truly become my passion! What began as an online shop has now evolved into a physical store in the Oddities and Curiosities world, where I have been warmly embraced. My spells, along with my herbariums and terrariums, are now available across the state of Florida.
I believe we are all on a journey of self-discovery. What sets me and my creations apart is the meticulous research and intention behind each of my artistic pursuits. Even if you are not seeking a spell, my art will always carry a certain kind of power, as I intentionally infuse it with meaning for you.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Taking risks is utterly terrifying, but ultimately essential for personal growth and self-discovery. One of my favorite quotes to live by is ‘The comfort zone is where your dreams come to die’ – and I say this as a complete hypocrite, by the way. Like anyone, I am scared to take risks, but I force myself to take action. I usually go for the ‘ripping off the band-aid’ method; I just do it before I can overthink it. Whenever I have done this, it has usually turned out to be the best decision I have made!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.punkpeonycreations.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/punkpeonycreations/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PunkPeonyCreations
