We recently connected with Holly Owen and have shared our conversation below.
Holly, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
I’ve worked on many projects I’ve found meaningful, from design jobs to furniture flips. But writing my book, “Quit Playing Yourself,” was definitely my biggest passion project.
It was March 2020, and I was living in New Orleans. Everything had just shut down. I suddenly found myself out of work, after being nonstop decorating vacation homes.
Right around the same time, yet another disappointing relationship imploded. Everything collided, creating the perfect storm. I started doing a deep-dive into my relationship struggles, and had plenty of time for one of my favorite pastimes, exploring the city and taking pictures.
One day on a walk, I had an epiphany. I began matching the quotes I was writing to the pictures I was taking. The project took on a life of its own, and “Quit Playing Yourself” was born.
Holly, 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 definitely got into writing by accident! I love to read, and have always enjoyed writing and editing, but writing a book was just not something I had ever thought of doing. I felt compelled to put it out there though, because I was so passionate and excited about it. I put my all into it, and thought little of doing much else at the time.
I wanted to help people as I simultaneously helped, and healed, myself. I had told a few of my single friends what I was working on, and they were excited to read it. I felt that maybe this was my purpose versus just a passion; helping others who have struggled in their relationships like I have. I wanted to help people feel less alone in their grief, and learn the lessons sooner – and less painfully – than I had.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
“Quit Playing Yourself” is a coffee table book, so it’s very visual. I’ve had the most success sharing it with people in person; at a book signing, networking, or other event. Holding the book in your hands and interacting with it in person is a completely different experience than just seeing pictures of it online.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Being able to look at what you’ve created. It’s uniquely, originally you. And no one can take that from you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hollidayhousebooks.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chezhollidaydesign/
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/Quit-Playing-Yourself-Holly-Owen/dp/1958729019