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

Alright, Nik thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How do you think about vacations as a business owner? Do you take them and if so, how? If you don’t, why not?

Yes, I do take vacations! Luckily for me, my vacations are usually work and play which is super rewarding. It’s crucial for maintaining both my well-being and the long-term health of my business. Here’s how I keep things running smoothly and some tips for fellow entrepreneurs:

Plan Ahead: I schedule my vacations ahead of time to help me stay organized. This advance planning helps minimize creative disruptions.

Delegate Responsibilities: I have a great team that works behind the scenes. Before I leave, I make sure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.

Set Up Systems: I’ve implemented systems and processes that allow my business to operate efficiently without my constant oversight. This includes clear communication channels and project management tools.

Communicate with Clients: I inform clients ahead of time about my absence and reassure them that my team will be available to assist.

Unplug During Vacation: I try to disconnect completely while I’m away. This helps me recharge and come back with fresh ideas.

For other entrepreneurs feeling tied down, I’d say: Remember that taking a break can actually enhance productivity and creativity. It’s not just about working hard; it’s also about working smart and taking care of yourself.

Nik, 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?

Absolutely! I’m Nik Arielle, and I’ve been working in the marketing and events industry for over eight years. My journey started as a marketing associate for a hospitality group in Brooklyn, New York, where my passion for event marketing blossomed throughout my career.

In 2018, I launched my pride and joy, Repump NYC, the ultimate kickoff event for Labor Day weekend. My goal was to create a unique Caribbean experience that sets the tone for the festivities. Many of our attendees travel from all over the globe, and to keep things fresh, I change the theme each year, offering something new for everyone to look forward to. This year, with just a week of promotion, I successfully executed a theme I had always envisioned, thanks to the support of some incredible vendors in the city.

I take great pride in how far I’ve come with this event and the amazing connections I’ve made worldwide. What started as a single idea has now become a staple of New York City’s largest Caribbean weekend, and I am forever grateful for that journey.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

One thing I think non-creatives might struggle to understand is the emotional investment that goes into the creative process. For many of us, our work is deeply personal, and the ups and downs can be intense.

Creativity often involves vulnerability—sharing ideas, receiving feedback, and sometimes facing rejection. It’s not just about the end product; it’s about the journey, the trials, and the growth that come with it. Non-creatives may see the final event or project and not fully appreciate the hours of brainstorming, planning, and sometimes failing that led to that moment.

Another aspect is the need for balance. While creativity can be exhilarating, it can also be exhausting. There’s a constant push to innovate and stay inspired, which can lead to burnout if not managed carefully.

I think it’s important for everyone, regardless of their background, to recognize that creativity is both a skill and a mindset. Embracing the process, celebrating small wins, and being open to learning from setbacks are key to navigating any creative journey. That perspective can really help bridge the gap between creatives and non-creatives.

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

The best source of new clients for me has definitely been word-of-mouth referrals. When clients have a positive experience, they naturally share it with their network, which has led to a steady stream of inquiries.

Additionally, I’ve found that social media has been incredibly effective. By showcasing my work and engaging with my audience, I can connect with potential clients who resonate with my style and approach.

Networking at industry events also plays a significant role. Building relationships with other professionals often leads to collaborative opportunities and referrals. Overall, a mix of strong client relationships, active social media presence, and networking has been key to growing my client base.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: instagram.com/nikarielle & instagram.com/repumpnyc
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamnikarielle