We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Pinda Romain a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Pinda, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?
Being a creative professional for over 25+ years, I’m always trying to find ways to use my skills. I currently work as Creative Director for a national hair care brand, but I know that I have more to offer. I do freelance graphic design jobs here and there and I could never see myself NOT designing. After my family and I moved to the up and coming Richmond area in Houston, Texas, I quickly realized that most of the skating parties my kids were invited to took place at a skating rink no where near our neighborhood. I decided it was time to open my own skating rink and include my design services!
Currently I am working on my business plan for The Main Skate, and seeking angel investors and funding. The Main Skate will be like no other rink. It will not only include a state of the art sound system, lights and rink, but it will be a great venue to host parties, work & community events and roller derbies. My vision is clear: skating fun for all, plus customized events and parties!
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
After launching pen-nydesign.com, I have dedicated my energy and imagination to creating branding campaigns in traditional and new media. I am a Creative Director who specializes in art, photo direction and graphic design. I am also an accomplished digital, editorial and packaging designer with a passion for logos, invitations, fashion styling and shopping!
As a well sought-after Creative Director, with a focus on fashion and beauty, I’ve worked on many print and digital campaigns for clients such as Essence Magazine, Stage Stores, Uncle Funky’s Daughter and many more!
My attention to detail is impeccable and I’m proud to start my next venture The Main Skate, and have my 3 daughters right by my side as co-owners. The experience will be all-inclusive, as I intertwine my creative side with one of my childhood loves. I want my customers to feel nostalgic when introducing this pastime to their families while creating memories. I want kids to come to The Main Skate not only as a cool place to hangout, but to also feel safe and connected. I want work buddies to bond while hanging out and starting new traditions. I want to create customized events and experiences for party-goers alike. This dream runs through my blood and I’m excited for what’s in store!
Where do you think you get most of your clients from?
As previously mentioned, I am a freelance graphic designer as well and I have a constant influx of jobs. My best source has been word of mouth/referrals. Once you’ve completely satisfied a customer’s need, they are bound to refer you to someone looking for the same experience. My freelance business has grown just from referrals alone!
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
My major pivot in my creative journey has been to not only focus on freelance gigs coming in, but to build something more substantial that my kids can see and understand passion, success and failure. I’ve let go (for now) of ideas of starting a design firm or a boutique in the neighborhood or an online clothing store (because of my love for fashion). They are all in on making The Main Skate happen and it’s fulfilling to see their creative juices come alive!
Contact Info:
- Website: pen-nydesign.com
- Instagram: @pennydia @the.main.skate
- Linkedin: Pinda D. Romain