We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Zenia Olivares. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Zenia below.
Zenia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
Oh, I’m absolutely happier as a creative. I spent about 10 years working different office jobs—mostly in finance and while they provided structure and a steady paycheck, they lacked the one thing I really needed: visual creativity. I’ve always craved beauty, color, and storytelling, so even while working those corporate roles, I had creative side hustles going. Whether it was photography, making art, decorating, or just curating spaces that felt intentional and inspiring, I always found a way to fill my creative cup.
The last time I thought about going back to a “regular” job, I was juggling a million things at once deadlines, edits, design decisions and I was exhausted. For a brief moment, I imagined the simplicity of clocking in and out, a clean desk, maybe even a few mindless meetings and a lunch break that didn’t involve multi-tasking. But then I laughed, because I know myself I’d last maybe a week before I’d be itching to create something, change something, do something that feels meaningful to me.
There’s a freedom and fulfillment in living creatively that I never felt in the corporate world. It’s not always easy, but I’ve never felt more like myself. And at the end of the day, I’d choose this messy, beautiful path over and over again
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Hi! I’m so happy you’re here. I’m the heart and hands behind Style It Pretty Home, a space where I share my love for design, storytelling, and the little moments that make a house feel like home. My path into this creative world wasn’t a straight one. For years, I worked in traditional office jobs—mostly in finance—but I always felt something was missing. I craved visual creativity, warmth, and expression. So even while working a 9–5, I was constantly styling corners of my home, experimenting with photography, and finding ways to make everyday spaces feel a little more magical.
Over time, those small creative moments grew into something bigger. I realized that creating beauty around me wasn’t just a hobby—it was a part of who I am. That’s when Style It Pretty Home was born. It’s a reflection of my eye for detail, my love of color and texture, and my belief that home should feel personal and inspiring.
What makes my work unique is that I let intuition and heart guide everything I share. I’m not chasing perfection—I’m chasing feeling. I want to capture the warmth of a lived-in room, the joy of a well-loved piece, the quiet beauty of light hitting a wall just right. Everything I post is rooted in authenticity and a desire to create a life that feels as good as it looks.
I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve stayed true to myself throughout this journey. I didn’t come from a design background or follow a traditional creative path—but I kept creating anyway. I want people who come across Style It Pretty Home to feel inspired to lean into their own creativity, however that looks.
This space is a celebration of beauty, emotion, and everyday magic. I’m so glad you’re here to be part of it.
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 just how deeply personal and emotional the creative journey is. For me, art has been a part of my life since I was four years old. It’s always been my quiet place, my outlet, and the one thing that has stayed constant through every season. But even after all these years, I rarely think what I make is “good enough.” There’s this internal tug-of-war between loving the process and second-guessing the result—but I’ve come to realize that’s just part of being an artist.
Art, for me, always begins with play. It’s never about perfection—it’s about exploring, feeling, and expressing something I don’t always have the words for. That’s not something you can easily explain to someone who hasn’t experienced it. And as an introvert, putting that deeply personal work out into the world can feel incredibly vulnerable. Being seen isn’t always comfortable, even when you’re proud of what you’ve created.
And honestly? Being an influencer isn’t easy. There’s so much beauty in it, but also a lot of pressure to constantly share, perform, and stay “on,” which can feel really draining when your nature leans more quiet and reflective. I think what people don’t always see is the emotional energy it takes to create something meaningful, share it publicly, and then sit with all the feelings that come after.
If there’s one insight I could share, it’s this: creativity isn’t always loud or flashy. Sometimes it’s soft, quiet, and tender. And that kind of creativity is just as powerful. It’s okay to be a work in progress. It’s okay to create simply because it brings you joy. And it’s okay if what you make doesn’t feel “enough” all the time—because showing up and making it anyway? That’s where the real magic is.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
My start in social media was honestly serendipitous and totally accidental. I didn’t set out with a strategy or a plan—I was just sharing things I loved, little corners of my life and home, moments that sparked joy for me. It started with a simple love for creating and capturing beauty, and somehow, that began to resonate with others. Over time, this amazing community grew—people who were kind, supportive, and genuinely excited to share in each other’s journeys. It felt organic, like we were all just inspiring and cheering each other on. There was so much joy in showing up back then.
But I’ll be honest—social media today feels really different. Sometimes it feels like you have to keep up, post constantly, or do something over-the-top just to be seen. A reel can go viral and suddenly there are thousands of new followers—but it’s not always about connection, and that can feel a little disheartening when what you really crave is community.
If you’re just starting out, my best advice is this: stay true to you. Don’t get lost trying to chase the algorithm or replicate someone else’s voice. The right people will find you, and the relationships you build that way will mean so much more than any viral moment ever could. And be consistent—not just in posting, but in showing up with your heart. It takes time, but it’s worth it.
At the end of the day, what matters most is that you’re creating from a place that feels honest and meaningful to you. That’s the kind of energy people connect with—and that’s what lasts
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Styleitprettyhome.co
- Instagram: HTTPS://instagram.com/styleitprettyhome
- Facebook: Https://favebook.com/styleitprettyhome
- Youtube: HTTPs://youtube.com/styleitprettyhome
