We recently connected with Arianna Quiroz and have shared our conversation below.

Arianna, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Is there a lesson you learned in school that’s stuck with you and has meaningfully impacted your journey?

Upon transferring to Azusa Pacific University to pursue my journalism degree, I found myself immersed in the rigorous environment of Journalism 210. As a junior, I had yet to delve into my major coursework, having focused solely on general education classes at my prior university. However, this class proved to be a pivotal experience, offering far more than a mere introduction to journalism.

In this dynamic setting, assignments were not just academic exercises but real-world challenges. Unlike other courses where deadlines were more forgiving, our professor often tasked us with completing assignments overnight. One memorable instance during election season stands out vividly. Tasked with interviewing three fellow students about their voting preferences and promptly crafting a comprehensive two-page story overnight, the pressure was palpable. Additionally, we were required to cover a debate occurring that same evening, adding another layer of intensity to our workload.

While initial reactions among classmates veered towards panic and complaint, I recognized the invaluable learning opportunity presented. Despite apprehension about the professor’s stringent grading standards, I soon realized the immense growth potential inherent in such demanding assignments.

Reflecting on that course, I am deeply grateful for the challenges it presented. Beyond honing essential skills like conducting interviews and covering significant events, I learned the importance of meeting rigorous deadlines and adapting to unforeseen circumstances. This course served as a formative experience, solidifying my passion for journalism and instilling in me the resilience necessary for success in this demanding field. I owe a debt of gratitude to my professor for preparing me for the realities of a career in journalism.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Since childhood, I’ve been drawn to the captivating world of journalism, inspired by confident and intelligent women traversing the globe and engaging with diverse voices. Fueling this passion, I pursued a degree in digital news and storytelling from Azusa Pacific University, graduating in 2018. Taking a leap of faith, I embarked on a career as a journalist and news anchor in Yuma, Arizona, bringing my childhood dream to fruition.

In addition to my current full-time job, I launched my freelance business earlier last year, driven by a desire to make a broader impact within my community. Through AQ Media, I’ve been privileged to utilize my expertise in journalism, communications, and marketing to assist individuals, organizations, and causes in sharing their unique narratives. With over five years of professional experience, I offer a comprehensive suite of services including videography, photography, social media management, website design, and graphic design.

Every individual possesses a compelling story, whether marked by triumphs or challenges, and I’m passionate about leveraging my media experience to amplify these narratives. Videography holds a special place in my heart, allowing me to capture the essence of a story through emotive visuals and audio. I’m particularly committed to amplifying the voices of those who may not be able to for one reason or another; including small businesses, nonprofits, and even animals, recognizing the significance of their stories.

While working in Yuma, I collaborated with the Humane Society to spotlight adoptable pets through captivating videos, a project that remains close to my heart. My journalistic background has instilled in me a deep sense of empathy and authenticity, enabling me to connect with individuals during moments of vulnerability or joy. At AQ Media, my objective is to prioritize the individual, crafting compelling narratives that resonate profoundly and leave a lasting impact.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

This is a great question. My journey in entrepreneurship began with a few clients who were close family friends. I’ve discovered that personal referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations play a pivotal role in expanding clientele. Hence, leveraging your network by informing friends and family about your business can achieve significant results without incurring advertising costs.

Moreover, I’ve actively sought opportunities to donate my services to local non-profit organizations in exchange for visibility on their communication channels, such as emails and websites. Participating in such collaborations, although initially a sacrifice, has consistently driven traffic to my website and increased brand recognition.

Additionally, utilizing various social media platforms has been instrumental in reaching a broader audience. While it’s a well-known strategy, its effectiveness in client acquisition cannot be overstated. While paid advertisements can enhance visibility, organic engagement through compelling content can also yield fruitful results. For instance, I recently acquired a client through a graduation photoshoot I posted to Instagram, demonstrating the potential of social media in generating business leads organically.

In essence, a combination of personal connections, strategic collaborations, and a strong presence on social media has been integral to my business growth, emphasizing the importance of both traditional and modern marketing approaches in building a thriving clientele.

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

As an artist and entrepreneur, one of the most rewarding aspects of my work is the opportunity to provide a platform for individuals who may otherwise lack the means to share their stories or showcase their talents. Beginning my business with this intention has been immensely fulfilling. Whether it’s assisting businesses in narrating their journeys, capturing cherished family moments at an affordable rate, or bolstering social media engagement for clients, each endeavor contributes to a sense of community and empowerment.

Moreover, being able to witness the transformative power of creativity firsthand is truly remarkable. Through the process of collaborating with clients and helping them bring their visions to life, I’ve seen how art and creative expression have the ability to inspire, heal, and unite. It’s not just about creating aesthetically pleasing works, but about facilitating meaningful connections and fostering a sense of belonging.

In particular, when clients share their testimonials or experiences, it’s incredibly gratifying to see them find solace and camaraderie in knowing that they’re not alone in their journey. The sense of validation and support that comes from being part of a community that rallies around them is both heartwarming and affirming. It underscores the importance of empathy, understanding, and the power of storytelling in building bonds and fostering a sense of belonging.

Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and entrepreneur lies in the profound impact that my work can have on individuals and communities alike. It’s about more than just creating art or running a business; it’s about using my platform and skills to uplift others, amplify their voices, and contribute to a more connected and compassionate world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aquirozmedia.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aqmedia_/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AriannaQuirozMedia
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariannaquiroz/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1BTpeeT-GCPIdLEekn95PQ/featured
• Other: https://aq-media.myspreadshop.com/