We recently connected with Miranda Parker and have shared our conversation below.

Miranda, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

When asked what it takes to be successful, my first answer will always be God, but immediately after it would be determination. In May 2015, I graduated from high school top 10%. I went on to attend North Carolina A&T State University later transferring back home to the illustrious Spelman College. Here I was, my junior year in college now living life thinking I was living my success story, then April 2017 … pregnant. Initially finding out I was pregnant at 20 years old, in my prime just really beginning my life I ultimately thought my life was over. Despite being pregnant I chose to finish out the semester and finish out the fall semester until the arrival of my daughter in January 2018. Here I was, 20 years old, once top 10% of her graduating class back at square one, realizing my entire life was about to change. Throughout my pregnancy, I heard “you mess up your life”, “you’ll never be as successful as we thought now” and so much more, but even after this with God & determination I knew my story wasn’t over. Knowing I was bringing another life into the world, I ultimately had to get back into the work force. I spent my pregnancy working every day after class in the mall for only $8.50 an hour. By the time my daughter arrived I still was barely making it. Could barely afford diapers or milk & school was completely out of the question because I didn’t have the personal funds or financial aid to get me through, but with GOD & the support of my parents we never went without. After months of struggling, struggling living paycheck to paycheck was no longer an option. I had to do more. I knew I could do more. I deserved more. My daughter deserved more. With knowing, I could & was made to be more than someone working a minimum wage job, I reverted to a talent I had since I was younger, 16 to be exact … graphic design. From there, life has taken off. Not only have I been able to build a popular & successful graphic design brand, but I have branded over 150 businesses, parties and more. Outside of graphic design, I also got into real estate & became a REALTOR®, now licensed for 3 years. I said all of this to say, with God ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE. Keep God first, stay determined & strive towards your purpose. My success story is because I never gave up & stayed on my face in prayer. Success is not just about you but is also about those around you that support you. I’ve learned that doing right by people, seen and unseen says a lot about not just your character but your brand. My success story is because I had my daughter. Because of her, I was determined more than ever & will always strive to be better than I was the day before.

Miranda, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello, I am Miranda A. Parker, self-taught graphic designer & brand stylist. I am the owner of J. Parker Designs located in Atlanta, Ga.

I got into this industry at the tender age of 16. I put my talents off for years later resuming at 21 years old in 2019. I am a full service graphic designer & brand stylist. J. Parker Designs offers: full brand development (logos, websites, stationary, etc.), party decor (banners, backdrops, floor decals, cutouts, menu cards, etc), Obituary & Memorial Design work, Brand strategy consultations & more.

What sets J. Parker Designs apart from others is we truly care, not just for your brand, but for you. This is more than just making a profit, this is about building relationships & helping others be successful & fully branded in their own brands.

I am most proud of my ability to continue to grow & expand even when all odds are against us. There are a million graphic designers in the world, in Atlanta alone but my clients love & respect not just my work but me enough to always return and trust me with their different projects. Above all, I am most proud of the growth that can be seen in my designs.

When working with J. Parker Designs you can always count on us to be responsive, timely & forever creative.

Where do you think you get most of your clients from?

Hands down, the best source of new clients has been referrals. When you do right by your clients and customers, even when they are difficult they notice it, appreciate it and will recommend you to anyone. 90% of my clientele has come from referrals. I am beyond grateful for every last one of my current clients & the clients to come.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My ultimate goal driving my creative journey, is making sure my family & friends are forever taken care of and never go without, whether it’s providing jobs or helping brand their own businesses. The idea of everyone eating has and will always be a goal of mine. Above all, making sure my daughter wants for nothing & goes through college (if she chooses to go ) free of debt is at the top of my list. My parents were amazing parents & made sure we had whatever they needed & I strive to be half the mom & dad they are and have been to me, to my daughter.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.thejpdesigns.com
• Instagram: @jparkerdesigns
• Facebook: J. Parker Designs
• Twitter: @JParker_Designs

Image Credits
Professional shoot by @longlostgreg