We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Clarisse Baqué a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Clarisse, thanks for joining us today. One of the most important things small businesses can do, in our view, is to serve underserved communities that are ignored by giant corporations who often are just creating mass-market, one-size-fits-all solutions. Talk to us about how you serve an underserved community.

My business serves an underserved community, and this community is comprised of introverts and deep feelers. In a world that often celebrates extroverted qualities, the introverted and deeply feeling individuals can feel overlooked and underserved. I’ve encountered clients who, despite having incredible talents and unique perspectives, struggled to find a design approach that resonated with their quieter, more introspective nature.

Imagine an entrepreneur, a brilliant mind with a passion for their craft, but introverted by nature. They felt compelled to conform to the loud and flashy, or on the other hand, very beige design trends that dominate the market, leaving them feeling disconnected from their own brand. This disconnect is not just an aesthetic concern; it goes to the core of their identity and impacts their ability to authentically connect with their audience.

This is where my brand and web design approach steps in. I understand the depth and richness that introverts and deep feelers bring to the table. Through a thoughtful and introspective design process, I create brand identities that resonate with the subtleties of their personality. It’s not just about visual appeal; it’s about crafting a brand that feels like a genuine expression of who they are.

In serving this underserved community, I’m not just providing design services; I’m offering a platform for introverts and deep feelers to shine authentically. It matters because diversity in expression should extend beyond the extroverted narrative. By catering to the unique needs of this community, my brand empowers individuals to embrace their introversion and depth, fostering a sense of belonging in a design landscape that often overlooks their quiet brilliance.

Clarisse, 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?

I’m Clarisse, the founder of Soulspell Studio, I’ve been a designer for 12 years, a life partner for 13 years and a mama for 7 years. I specialize in heartcrafted design for emotive brands. My love affair with design began in Paris, where I was born and where I went to graphic design school for four transformative years. It was during this time that I honed my skills and developed a keen eye for aesthetic precision, with professors who were respected professionals of the industry.

My professional journey kicked off at an agency in 2011, an experience that, while valuable, made me understand that not everyone would be kind and fair in this world. I was undervalued and underpaid and my design work was used on huge projects while I had an intern’s pay.
Determined to thrive on my own terms, I took a leap into the realm of luxury design. Joining a high end packaging agency, I had the privilege of working with iconic brands like Guerlain, Dior, Givenchy, and more. This experience not only refined my craft but also instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of design in elevating a brand to extraordinary heights.

Life took a beautiful turn when I left my hometown to embrace the role of motherhood. In this chapter, I took a deliberate step back from the corporate hustle, using the time to reflect on my own aspirations and redefine my path. It was during this hiatus that the seeds of my own business were planted—a business built on my terms and fueled by a desire to channel my luxury experience and skills towards clients who truly deserved and valued them.

Fast forward to today, and I proudly stand as the founder of Soulspell Studio, a haven for individuals and business owners seeking more than just a design service. My offerings extend beyond the visual to a profound, soul-led experience. I specialize in crafting brand identities that not only captivate the eye but also resonate with the core of my clients’ being.

What sets me apart is not just my expertise but the journey that led me here. I understand the corporate landscape, the glamour of luxury, and the quiet strength of stepping into entrepreneurship on your own terms. I solve the problem of disconnected branding by providing a space for my clients to feel seen and heard in every design element.

What I’m most proud of is the transformation I witness in my clients. It’s the confidence they exude when their brand becomes an embodied soul, a true reflection of who they are. The purpose of my work is not just about aesthetics; it’s about a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. My clients are not just getting a designer; they’re gaining a longterm business partner in their quest for authenticity and success.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

We need to recognize the power of being true to ourselves in a digital landscape that often emphasizes curated perfection. The essence of my strategy can be distilled into a simple yet profound mantra: be your true self. This approach isn’t just about attracting a broad audience; it’s about resonating with the right people—those who are genuinely seeking what I have to offer. In fact, I have less than a thousand followers, but I have a highly engaged community.

In a world saturated with content, standing out requires a unique voice and a genuine narrative. I share not just my work but the behind-the-scenes moments, the challenges, and the victories. By weaving my personal journey into the fabric of my brand, I create a relatable and authentic narrative that goes beyond the pixels on the screen.

Engagement is a two-way street. I actively participate in conversations, respond to comments, and celebrate the achievements of my community. This interactive approach fosters a sense of belonging, transforming my social media presence into a community rather than just a platform.

For those embarking on the journey of building a social media presence, my advice is simple: be unapologetically yourself. Share your story, your quirks, and your passions. It’s in this authenticity that you’ll attract a community that resonates with you on a deeper level. Don’t be afraid to showcase the journey, the highs and lows, and the evolution of your brand. People connect with stories, and by being true to yourself, you create a magnetic force that draws in those who are not just interested in what you do but who you are.

Remember, social media is not just a megaphone for your work; it’s a conversation. Engage with your audience genuinely, celebrate their wins, and be a source of inspiration and support. In a digital landscape, authenticity is the currency that builds lasting connections. So, embrace your uniqueness, share your story, and let the right audience find you.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

Every client relationship begins with a touch of artistry. Upon booking, I extend a personal touch by sending thoughtful handwritten notes that are not just messages but artistic expressions of gratitude. These notes serve as a tangible representation of the care and attention to detail that defines my design process. It sets the tone for a relationship that goes beyond business to become a shared appreciation for the beauty of thoughtful gestures.

From the initial interaction, my clients are not just patrons; they’re individuals who resonate with the values and authenticity I bring to the table. By being true to myself and my brand, I attract clients who not only appreciate my work but also connect with the personal narrative I share. This connection forms the basis of lasting friendships that go beyond the transactional nature of business.

The commitment to my clients extends far beyond the completion of a project. I initiate a six and twelve-month check-in, providing them with an opportunity to ask questions, seek guidance, or simply share updates. This follow-up service is not an upsell; it’s a genuine offer of ongoing support, emphasizing that our relationship is not confined to a single project but is an enduring connection.

Brand loyalty is nurtured through accessibility. I position myself as more than just a service provider; I am a reliable resource and a support system. Clients know that I am always there for them, ready to address any concerns, answer questions, or offer guidance. This accessibility creates a sense of security and trust, reinforcing the idea that our connection is not bound by time or project constraints. And yes, this can be done while honoring your own (necessary) boundaries.

In essence, fostering brand loyalty is not a formula; it’s a philosophy deeply embedded in the way I approach relationships. It’s about creating an experience that transcends transactions, transforming clients into friends and patrons into passionate advocates of my brand.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://soulspellstudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soulspellstudio
• Other: https://www.pinterest.fr/soulspellstudio/

Image Credits
LiliEyes Photographie