Today we’d like to introduce you to Evan Monét.
Hi Evan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Embarking on my journey in branding and marketing at the age of 12, I’ve now accumulated 15 years of experience in the field. The initial spark came in 2009 when I started designing visuals and MySpace layouts for friends and their circles.
Upon entering college in 2014, a desire to make a difference on campus led me to actively engage with various organizations. Gradually, I assumed the role of Public Relations Director for multiple on-campus organizations, including The Black Student Union and the Epsilon Chi chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. My responsibilities encompassed revamping flyers, spearheading marketing campaigns, and managing social media platforms, marking the beginning of my venture into marketing and branding.
Fast forward to 2020, armed with a degree in Mass Communication with a focus on Public Relations from Wright State University, I set out on a job search within my chosen field. Unfortunately, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted my plans for securing employment. Faced with this challenge and inspired by the surge in new businesses, I decided to immerse myself full-time in graphics. Remarkably, within the initial two months, I surpassed any sales goal I had set, rapidly expanding my client base beyond my hometown within a few months.
My interests span social media marketing, social media management, and public relations, all intricately intertwined with my deep passion for graphic design.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Reflecting on my journey, it’s clear it hasn’t been a smooth ride. There were moments of doubt and contemplation, times when I felt like giving up and veering off course. Yet, amidst the challenges, one thing remained constant: my unwavering passion for graphics and branding, a force that continually drew me back.
A significant blow came with the loss of my father to COVID-19 complications on February 5, 2022. Battling the virus alongside him, his passing left a profound void. Despite the fresh grief, I strive to cope the best I can. Initially, his absence made pursuing my passion seem daunting, as his support and encouragement were no longer tangible. However, I knew deep down he’d want me to persist, to honor our shared belief in chasing dreams against all odds.
Losing him plunged me into darkness. I felt adrift and unsure of myself, and my confidence waned. Graphic design, once my solace, became a burden. To rediscover my spark, I embarked on a lengthy hiatus, a period of introspection where I sought clarity on my purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next, you can tell us a bit more about your business.
I proudly consider myself a branding guru and consultant, specializing in marketing, social media management, as well as graphic and web design. My forte lies in creating captivating graphics, be it eye-catching flyers or distinctive logos. What brings me the greatest satisfaction is my ability to craft something that stands the test of time, enriching both my client’s experience and that of their clients.
A notable highlight in my journey was seeing a billboard I designed featured in Times Square back in January of 2022 for a client based in Atlanta, Georgia. The sheer scale of it was monumental, as I never envisioned my work being showcased to thousands of people simultaneously. This achievement held deep significance for me, especially since it was the last project my dad knew about before his passing. Additionally, I take immense pride in the organic growth I’ve experienced within my field. What initially started as a fun pursuit has evolved into a significant professional venture.
What sets me apart from others is my commitment to establishing genuine relationships with my clients. I delve into understanding not only how they present themselves to me but also to their social media audiences. This deep understanding allows me to create and tailor designs that resonate perfectly with them and their businesses.
How do you define success?
Achieving success as a young, black female millennial entrepreneur goes beyond simply overcoming barriers; it’s about defying expectations and embracing authenticity. It’s about navigating through a world that sometimes seems rigged against you, yet carving out a space where your voice, dreams, and accomplishments are not just recognized but applauded. To me, success embodies the fusion of passion, resilience, and unapologetic self-expression.
In the words of Beyoncé, “As soon as I accomplish one thing, I just set a higher goal. That’s how I’ve gotten to where I am.” This mindset encapsulates the essence of success for individuals like us—continuously striving for excellence, setting new benchmarks, and pushing boundaries. It’s about refusing to be confined by society’s expectations and instead daring to dream bigger, reach higher, and soar beyond limitations. Success isn’t just a destination; it’s an ongoing journey of growth, empowerment, and transformation.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.evanmonet.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/evanmonett
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evansumlin/
