We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Rebecca Maguire. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Rebecca below.

Rebecca, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’ve love to hear an interesting investment story – what was one of the best or worst investments you’ve made? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

One of the best investments I’ve made as a business owner has been building my office—my “she shed.” It’s given me a dedicated space to focus, stay organized, and truly immerse myself in my work. As a mom to two toddlers with a busy household, this space allows me to separate my workday from home life, making me more productive and inspired.

Having a creative space has been a long-time dream of mine. Growing up, I always imagined having a little shed in my mom’s backyard where I could carve out a corner of the world that was entirely my own. When I launched my business, I didn’t think something like this would be possible. I was still new to the business, and the financial investment seemed daunting.

But I made it work—with careful planning and help from family and one of my best friends, I transformed a simple shed into a space that reflects my personality and purpose. It’s been a game-changer. Not only has it allowed me to focus on my business and art, but it’s also taught me the value of investing in myself and my business.

This experience reinforced that strategic investments, even when they feel like a stretch, can yield incredible returns—not just financially, but also in creativity, confidence, and overall balance. My she shed isn’t just an office; it’s a symbol of what’s possible when you believe in your dreams.

Rebecca, 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?

I am a graphic designer, artist, and entrepreneur passionate about blending creativity with marketing expertise to help brands stand out. I specialize in working with outdoor organizations and small businesses, creating unique designs that are not only visually appealing but also strategically aligned with each client’s goals.

My journey into the creative industry has been shaped by a lifetime of artistic curiosity and a love for nature. I’ve always been drawn to art and design, from taking classes in high school and college to pursuing graphic design as a career. My work is deeply inspired by the natural world—flowers, outdoor adventures, and the transformative beauty of nature are recurring themes in my designs and illustrations.

Rebecca Leigh Designs officially launched in 2021, and since then, I’ve built my business around helping others tell their stories visually. My services include graphic design for magazines, reports, and other longer-format materials; marketing strategy; and custom artwork, such as personalized birth month flower bouquets, apparel, and stickers. I’m also exploring more analog mediums like botanical illustration to expand my creative reach.

What sets me apart is my ability to combine creativity with business acumen. With an MBA and certifications in digital marketing, social media, and SEO, I bring a strategic mindset to every project. My clients appreciate my clean, smart designs and the way I integrate marketing strategies to deliver results.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping small businesses and outdoor organizations elevate their branding, connect with their audiences, and stand out in competitive markets. Whether it’s designing a cohesive marketing campaign, creating nature-inspired art, or helping brands reflect their values through design, I’m driven by a desire to make a positive impact.

I’m most proud of the journey it took to get here. From working with national organizations like SORP and AORE to supporting local initiatives like La Veta Trails and my dad’s recreation program, my work reflects my dedication to the communities and causes I care about. Transforming a simple shed into my dedicated office space was a dream come true and a turning point for my business—it symbolizes my commitment to growth and the power of investing in yourself.

I want potential clients and followers to know that I approach every project with a spirit of collaboration, creativity, and authenticity. My motto, “Dare to be different,” embodies my commitment to delivering designs that are as unique as the people and brands behind them.

When I’m not designing or working on my art, you can find me outdoors hiking with my family, visiting the Denver Botanic Gardens, or supporting my local community. My work is a reflection of who I am: a mom, artist, and nature lover who is passionate about creating meaningful connections through design.

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

I’ve had to pivot several times in my life, and each of these moments shaped who I am today. They were major decisions, filled with uncertainty, but they ultimately led to incredible growth and fulfillment.

1. Transferring Colleges
Two years into college, I realized I was deeply unhappy and unfulfilled. I decided to transfer to a smaller college with a welcoming atmosphere and a stronger communications program. This turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. I met my best friends and the love of my life, rediscovered my passion for soccer, and gained invaluable experience working on the yearbook—something I had always dreamed of doing. Staying for my MBA allowed me to work closely with amazing professors as a graduate assistant, which gave me a strong foundation for my career.

2. Moving to Colorado
I grew up in Atlanta and had never really lived outside of the city’s Perimeter (I-285), except during college. My husband convinced me to take a small step first, moving just outside the Perimeter, which gave me the confidence to embrace change. After some time—and a lot of encouragement from my husband—I took an even bigger leap, moving to Colorado. It wasn’t easy leaving my comfort zone, but it was worth it. Colorado has helped me grow as a person, a mom, and a professional. Our family has built a strong community here, and we’ve never been happier.

3. Quitting My Full-Time Job to Start My Business
After the birth of my first child, I was balancing motherhood and a demanding job during a global pandemic. While I loved parts of my job, the toxic management and unpredictable environment took a toll on my mental health. Panic attacks became a regular occurrence, and I realized I couldn’t continue living like that—not for myself or my family. My husband encouraged me to take the leap and start my own business, something I had always dreamed of but was terrified to do.

The early days were tough, especially financially, but it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I now have the flexibility to be present for my kids while doing work I love. I’ve built incredible connections, worked with amazing organizations, and created a career that fills me with pride and purpose.

Each of these pivots taught me the importance of listening to my intuition and taking bold steps toward a happier, more fulfilling life. Change is never easy, but every leap has led to a better version of myself and the life I want to live.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building my reputation within my market has been a combination of hard work, strong relationships, and a commitment to delivering high-quality results. I work with many adjacent organizations, as well as those within a small, rural area, which means trust and word-of-mouth play a huge role in shaping my business.

I’ve focused on being approachable, budget-friendly, and highly communicative, which has made me a reliable partner for my clients. My ability to collaborate and adapt to different needs has allowed me to work effectively with a wide range of people and organizations.

Networking and connections have been the foundation of my career growth. I’ve built strong relationships with people in my industry and beyond, and I stay dedicated to doing good work that speaks for itself. These factors, combined with my focus on building trust and maintaining a positive reputation, have truly helped me establish a strong presence in my market.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.rebeccaleighdesigns.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebecca_leigh_designs
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Rebeccaleighdesignsllc
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rlmaguire26
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/rebecca_leigh_designs