We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mariel Katafias a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Mariel, thanks for joining us today. Can you tell us the backstory behind how you came up with the idea?
I came up with my brand Kriyana as an embodiment of my divine feminine and the goddess within. I had been an Environmental Graphic Designer and Art Director at a design agency for many years and the daily life and stress load was not the ideal environment for me to embody my best self. I considered the start of my career my business bootcamp, where I was exposed to the full process of design and fabrication. I learned and created many tools that were transferable to my own design services business which gave me the confidence to take the leap. I decided I was ready to invest in myself and choose more peace, creating a life that allowed me to fully shine.
Going out on your own can be a scary thing, especially depending on how much stability you have in place. I knew I couldn’t continue on as I was for my own well being, and was ready to continue my personal growth in new ways. I had been successfully running a department for a few years, had a wide range of skills and knew I had what it took to create my own processes for success. Being an entrepreneur is a very personal journey that has allowed me to meet myself in deeper ways and reconnect with the deeper purpose that inspires me within design. I knew that as long as I stayed aligned with my energy and authenticity, I had all the tools I needed to succeed.
Mariel, 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 have professionally been a graphic designer and illustrator for over 10 years. I’ve specialized in Environmental Graphic Design for 8 years working on projects in residential and commercial development, and event design. I have a background in branding and marketing as well, allowing me to take a holistic approach to my design offerings. My services include (but are not limited to) mural design, display design, custom wallcoverings, signage, logo design, website design and branded collateral. I love meeting clients where they are while being able to see the vast possibilities of application for their design needs. Understanding web, 3D and interior design allows me to make strategic design decisions that allow for seamless expansion.
I also offer physical goods including dimensional wall decor, graphic apparel, prints and cards. I started this collection to be a personal avenue for my creativity and offer customizable decor at affordable prices. I’m proud of the avenues I’ve pursued this far and am planning to infuse more of my personal interests into my future work, including nontoxic living, sustainability, self development and wellness.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
The mission behind my creative journey is to create a balanced life for myself full of authentic expression. I want to help others bring their visions to life and support causes I am passionate about. Being an independent designer allows me to exercise a variety of my skills and choose working relationships that align with my values. I believe that one of the best ways to help others is by fully embodying ourselves.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Non-creatives may struggle to understand the adaptability that comes with the creative journey. As great as business planning and structure is and can be, staying authentically in alignment comes above all for me. As you grow and expand on the entrepreneurial journey, sometimes you have to shift your positioning in unexpected ways. I’ve always found myself on the cusp of many things, with a wide range of interests. I have a lot of passions in spirituality and wellness which has given me the opportunity to figure out how to infuse my passions into my offerings. Being a channel for what lights me up allows me to bring my best work to the table.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://marielkatafias.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kriyanahome/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariel-katafias-95a94b59/
- Other: Shop: https://marielkatafias.com/shopkriyana
