We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Amber Fudge . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Amber below.

Amber, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

There are so many reasons why I have a love for travel blogging. I started a travel blog called, “Amber Sandiego”, earlier this year that I am truly proud of. My love for travel began as a child because I was obsessed with geography. I’d constantly study maps (countries, states & capitals) and was so fascinated to know there was a bigger world out there. Not to mention, I wanted to be on the 90s PBS Kids tv show, “Carmen Sandiego”, growing up seeing that my family and friends can never locate me, hence fitting to my brand name. As a blazing traveler, I’m always on the go, so it was the perfect match. Plus, Ms. Sandiego was a well dressed woman who navigated the world with ease and I share that same quality as well. Talk about women empowerment!

My grandparents are a huge influence as well, as they used to travel the United States on a consistent basis together. They are originally from Lagrange, Georgia and moved as teenagers to Rochester, New York (my hometown). They have road tripped all over the US, with my grandfather video recording and my grandmother snapping photos of all their adventures.

I’ve studied Spanish since first grade so embracing new cultures was just embedded in my blood and brain. Also, I’ve moved around in my lifetime so I’ve grown accustomed to change and switching up my environment. I can literally be a chameleon in any atmosphere and that has helped me connect with people of all backgrounds. I feel like through my travel experiences, I can embrace any obstacle with an open mind being a natural nomad as it is a true passion of mine while inspiring others to do the same.

Amber, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Hello! My name is Amber Fudge, I’m a thirty five year old, spontaneous, sagittarius, Black American woman from New York who has always loved exploring the unfamiliar. I recently moved from the sunny beaches of Florida after eight and half years to “The Natural State” in Little Rock, Arkansas. Besides traveling the world (which I’ve been doing for over 15 years), I enjoy astrology, fine arts (singing, dancing, street art, broadway), staying active, fashion, being an aunt to seven nieces & nephews , The Pittsburgh Steelers and cooking cultural foods with a glass of wine!

What sets me apart from the rest? I am a vivacious boss woman who is and gives 100 percent in whatever that I do. I am truly passionate about showcasing my experience on a travel lifestyle as I wander the globe. I just LOVE what I do! That’s when you know it doesn’t feel like work anymore. It’s truly become a part of who I am. I fall into the love of the culture, meeting new friends and locals every where I go as I am a natural extrovert. My focus is hidden gems I’ve discovered all over the world, delicious cuisine and craft cocktails as I have hospitality knowledge for over a decade. I hope to give the viewer a closer insight on just how beautiful the world truly is.

Have you ever had to pivot?

This summer, my business definitely took a complete turn. I started my business originally with a partner. We were friends who both enjoyed the same interest. The problem we faced was that I was more committed to the the business than they were. I started everything, managed and created all the social media and blogs with minimal effort from my partner.. So eventually, I felt like the partnership was not 50/50 anymore, but more so 90/10 in effort. You cannot operate a business that way. I properly communicated that I would love their input & help as a partner as anyone would professionally and as a friend. Unfortunately, that did not end well on their part and we decided to split ways. I was completely fine with it as I was used to working alone. I learned that some times things are not meant to align with your vision, but with hard work and focus you can pick up again. I had to rebuild and rebrand and I am better than where we were before in shorter amount of time than when we originally started. I am thankful of all the love and support of my family, friends and followers who just loved my blog, It’s truly to been a blessing.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being a creative, is knowing that I am touching someone’s life through travel or in any way shape or form. I have always been a writer. English was my best subject growing up and telling my experiences through blogging has truly made feel like I am making a mark in the world for other people and myself. I get excited every time I go on an adventure and write or create a visual for other inspired travelers or people who have the desire to get out there. People always tell me. “I live vicariously through you Amber, you’re always on the go!” and that honestly makes me happy. Hopefully next time, they can join me!

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.amber.sandiego.com/
• Instagram: travel – @amber.sandiego. -personal @daniellefudge
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ambersandiego2/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-fudge-a06a8a77/
• Twitter: ambersandiego22
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc-x6C2UQZdnu52L791jefg

Image Credits
I use all my own images.