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

Kayla, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

The choice of the business name “Violet Rose Imperfections” holds a deep and personal significance for me. It’s a name that carries layers of meaning and reflects my journey towards self-acceptance and growth. Initially, I was drawn to the name as a conscious rebellion against my own battle with perfectionism. The juxtaposition of “Imperfections” challenges the idea of flawlessness and celebrates the beauty in embracing authenticity and individuality.

The combination of “Violet” and “Rose” in the name holds a special place in my heart. These names represent the tender and strong, the delicate and bold aspects of life. If I were to have a child, I would have named them “Violet Rose,” a name that encapsulates the beauty in contrast and the complexity of human experience. As a Pisces, I find resonance in the symbolism of the violet hue, which aligns with the intuition and insight associated with the third eye chakra. This connection is a reminder of my journey to trust my intuition and infuse it into the essence of my business.

“Violet Rose Imperfections” is more than just a name; it’s a manifesto of embracing our human nature and rejecting the pursuit of unattainable perfection. Through this business, I aspire to practice radical authenticity by openly acknowledging our imperfections and embracing the journey of growth and self-discovery. This name is a symbol of my commitment to celebrate the uniqueness in all of us and to create a space where imperfections are not just accepted, but cherished.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Amidst the onset of the pandemic’s uncertainty, I embarked on a transformative journey that led to the birth of my business. As the world grappled with unprecedented changes, I saw an opportunity to channel my emotions into something positive. The initial spark ignited at the pandemic’s dawn, but it wasn’t until later, when I revisited my passion with renewed energy, that my creative venture truly took shape. It became a source of solace, a way to share joy, and a powerful means of connecting with others.

Restlessness in my job pushed me to seek happiness beyond the confines of conventional paths. Dreams of community and communal care drew me to Los Angeles, where I aimed to blend a draining industry with my newfound love for art. My vision was to carve out space for self-expression while finding a nurturing community that valued support over competition.

Life took an unexpected turn as my intended three-month exploration stretched into a year of transformation. Amidst my creative endeavors, I embraced a rigorous yoga program that ultimately made me a certified yoga teacher. I indulged in crafting delectable vegan recipes and showcased my art at various markets, gaining momentum as my business aligned with the fluidity of my Piscean spirit.

From a former career in business insurance to embracing my creativity, this phase has been a rebellion against societal norms. The business represents my refusal to be confined by expectations, a testament to my creativity, intellect, and self-belief. As I look back on the past year in Los Angeles, I’ve weathered economic challenges, proving that my art is not just an escape but a steadfast companion on this unpredictable journey.

Diving headfirst into the world of full-time artistry has been like navigating a wild and wacky obstacle course! From collaboration conundrums to chasing support like a determined detective, and balancing that elusive thing called “life,” being an artist is a rollercoaster ride. Let’s face it – going against the flow isn’t exactly a cakewalk, and society’s rulebook? Yeah, I’ve tossed that out the window with a triumphant grin.

But guess what? Amidst the craziness, I’ve stumbled upon an art oasis that feels like a healing balm for my soul. It’s like having a secret stash of energy bars that boost my spirit, even though they might zap it a bit too. With each dab of paint and each resin pour, I’m experiencing a healing magic that’s real, even if it occasionally comes with a side of exhaustion.

I’m on a mission to make my art hustle smarter, not harder. My creative brain is a whirlwind of ideas – I mean, who doesn’t love a bit of organized chaos, right? From whipping up earrings, rings, and pendants that give your style a high-five, to molding resin trays, dishes, and scent holders that make you go “ooh” and “aah,” and now throwing gypsum stone and hand-carved stone earrings into the mix – I’ve got a mini art universe going on! But let’s be real, managing this art bonanza can sometimes feel like trying to wrangle a bunch of hyper kittens.

Life as an artist is an epic adventure, full of color and quirks, and I’m here for the wild ride!

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Navigating the ever-shifting landscape of my business has often called for a graceful pivot, especially when ideas take unexpected turns or when sharing space with fellow artists who tread similar creative paths. Engrained in my ethos of community over competition, this journey has been an exploration of harmony and synergy. In the tapestry of kindred mediums and communal connections, I am drawn to the dance of complementing one another’s artistic narratives, acknowledging our shared humanity beyond the canvas. While the realm of art is a playground of exhilaration, it’s easy to become entangled solely in its vibrant hues, sometimes forgetting the intricacies that make us whole.

Yet, the prism of our existence refracts hues far beyond artistry alone. In the woven fabric of our world, implicit biases cast shadows over race, color, gender, and sexuality. These shadows cast complexities upon the terrain of sales, marketing, and strategy. A journey inward beckons, urging me to temper comparisons and seek uniqueness. The tapestry of language unfolds as a canvas for innovation, and an unquenchable thirst for collaboration stirs within me, craving like-minded souls.

Venturing forth, I’ve gleaned that communities are mosaics, each piece meticulously shaped by communication and the audacious act of being seen as an individual. Within these varied realms, we carry our individual battles, privileges, and networks. My arrival in Los Angeles was a blank canvas devoid of familial support or familiarity. This starkness awakened a heightened sense of discernment, a vigilant exploration of camaraderie. My evolution as a solo entrepreneur has illuminated the path to efficiency, discerning trustworthiness, and nurturing genuine bonds. And now, as I share a space with fellow artists, it’s a celebration of vulnerable collaboration, where artistic alchemy thrives without the shadows of exploitation.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the most vibrant lessons I’ve uncovered on my journey is the art of unlearning the notion that I’m an island unto myself, capable of shouldering the world solo. Admittedly, I’ve proven my mettle in juggling myriad tasks, yet the ultimate truth dawns that communal support is akin to a catalyst for business owners. This tapestry of support is woven by customers, friends, and family beyond the immediate circle. In embracing this, I’ve discerned the vital necessity of resources, camaraderie, trust, and the priceless treasure of unswerving integrity.

For the longest time, I reveled in the belief that I could single-handedly conquer any challenge. Yet, the journey of a small business owner, while empowering, has illuminated the allure of having a creative partner in crime. To have someone with whom to ideate, shoulder the tangible and intangible burdens of entrepreneurship, and infuse fresh perspectives into the tapestry of creation is an artful dance of balance. The notion of downplaying one’s support web to validate individual achievement pales in comparison to the expansive power of thriving within a supportive community.

The truth echoes resoundingly – whether you navigate the path of artistry alone or accompanied, the road to success gleams brighter when walked alongside kindred spirits who uplift, cherish, and wholeheartedly embrace the authentic artist within you. After all, the beauty of artistry flourishes when nurtured by a tapestry of encouragement and unwavering belief.

The seeds of this lesson unfurled against the backdrop of firsthand experience, where the tapestry of support, resources, networks, and connections wove transformative magic into the fabric of an entrepreneur’s life. As I traverse the landscape of a new state, a solitary journey underscored by a handful of authentic connections, my admiration deepens for those who’ve seamlessly woven a safety net from the threads of those around them. Simultaneously, I recognize the privilege imbued within such a tapestry, a privilege bestowed upon few. The act of having unwavering support and individuals willing to show up, driven not by personal gain but by the profound grace of human connection, brings forth a liberation that dances on the wings of authenticity, a force both freeing and exhilarating.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.violetroseimperfections.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/violetroseimperfections?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
• Other: https://mybbbbhc.square.site/shop/violet-rose-imperfections/70