Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tayja Strickland. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Tayja thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

The most important lesson I have learned is that “Sometimes dry seasons are necessary to prepare you for the next place.” I was a creative, working in what many would consider a dead-end job. I worked there for 2 and 1/2 years, but within those 2 1/2 years, I grew my knowledge and gained more experience, which allowed me to secure a job closer to my interests.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Well, I am the owner of M Luxe Creative Studios LLC, a creative agency specializing in digital marketing, branding, and creative direction for small businesses and other creatives who need help solidifying their image. I am also the acting digital marketing manager for Metro Vieve Magazine, a local fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication based in Columbia, South Carolina. Lastly, I currently have a full-time role as a marketing coordinator for a telecommunications company based in Chester, South Carolina. Marketing is my passion! I love creative strategy and helping others realize their vision. I have been able to help both businesses above grow their following along with other individuals through my business in the past. I have a diverse portfolio working with everything from the beauty sector to an artistic collective. I would tell potential clients that their passions and goals will become mine when working with me. I pride myself on professionalism and creating lasting relationships with anyone I work with.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I graduated from one of the nation’s most respected and reputable art schools in 2019 and did not get an opportunity in my field until three years later. At the time, it felt like I had “settled” for a job in law enforcement because of financial responsibilities/lack of finances to relocate, lack of opportunities, and not enough experience. Within the time I was there, I could have given up quickly because there was nothing to inspire me within that space. I would have moments of doubt because many of my college friends have gone on to do amazing things within the creative industry, and I was still stuck at home. I would often say, “Maybe I’ll just be one of those people who know many cool people.” Nevertheless, I believe the only thing that kept me (and is still keeping me) was my faith and belief system because it always reminded me of my purpose and the promises of my creator. For me and many others, the pandemic brought great opportunities to learn, grow and network virtually. Although a scary and devasting time, without it, I would not have been in the position to take the roles I assume now. To be able to push past all the chaos, literally and figuratively, during that dry season for me is what made me and many others resilient during that time.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I don’t believe I have ever thought about this before! I would say one goal would be to give back to my community. Although rural, my community Winnsboro, South Carolina, has so many creative people. However, with few resources, most settle for more traditional jobs and never really explore creative opportunities. So it would be a dream to create programs, summer camps, and maybe even an institution where they can focus solely on their creative passions and be set up for a successful career.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tayjastrickland.com
• Instagram: @__tayja.s
• Facebook: Tayja Strickland
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tayjastrickland/
• Twitter: n/a
• Youtube: n/a
• Yelp: n/a

Image Credits
Featured Photo: I photographed by Jacob Zambrano Photo 1 (group in blue): Faith Love & Soul Artist Collective Styled and Creative Directed by MLuxe Creative Studios photographed by Cordaro Starlings of Legacy Studios Photo 2 Graphic Design for Sarcastic Cosmetics by MLuxe Creative Studios Photo 3 Interview for In The Studio Segment with Stoi Galindez of Stoi’s Design Company Creative directed by me for Metro Vieve Magazine Photograph by Allie Maciag Photo 4 I photographed by Jacob Zambrano