Today we’d like to introduce you to Alissa Hazzard
Hi Alissa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My disco journey started in the aftermath of the pandemic in 2022. Like many, my mental health had taken a turn for the worse as ‘real life’ resumed. Having suffered from anxiety and depression my entire life, the gloominess of reemergence in the cold and dark of January had gotten the best of me and I was desperately looking for some light. I’ve always been an artist who found comfort in different creative outlets. I’ve also always been a lover of all things 70’s and disco. So I decided to really put my talents to the test when I ordered the glass and foam needed to create my first disco piece – a disco head. When the materials arrived I sat on my floor for 8 hours (I still have the back pain to show for it) and got to work. A fire erupted in me from there and I made a disco ball, disco cactus, and any other shape I could think of in just 3 days. I took photos of the light hitting them just right and posted to my personal Instagram and the out pour of encouragement to sell the pieces I received from friends and family blew me away. With each piece I created I felt immense joy and watched as others received happiness from simply seeing them online. I created an instagram page dedicated to my art and was immediately invited to sell at local Columbus markets and would even be asked 2 months after launching to do an installation at a local business. From there the support of the Columbus art community sky rocketed me into so many opportunities and I am now able to create discos full time and spread joy all across the country.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of the biggest challenges I faced was working a full time corporate job while getting my disco business off the ground. I worked in healthcare and the contrast between expensive medicine and dancing under disco balls would often burn me out. I put my disco dreams on hold for the entire winter last year due to the stress of my day job and ultimately felt like a failure for not being able to do both. I feel incredibly lucky and privileged to say that I quit three months ago and now do disco full time!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Hazzard at the Disco, my mission is to illuminate everyday life and special occasions with shimmering joy and vibrant energy. I am dedicated to crafting the finest disco balls/shapes that transform any space into a dazzling dance floor, sparking unforgettable moments of celebration and unity. I believe that ANYTHING can be a disco ball. Some of my favorite creations have been disco hot dogs, a disco planets, melting disco balls, and a disco booty. I still have so much love for a traditional disco ball but my true passion is in making every day things shine!
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I listen to a lot of the Mindset Mentor by Rob Dial. The quick 15 minute podcast episodes give me so much practical resources and lessons to stay on track and succeed in being a business owner. I also am a very spiritual person so apps like The Pattern and CHANI app keep me aligned with the universe and in touch with myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Hazzardatthedisco.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/hazzard.at.the.disco
