Spaces // Joanna Waterfall of Waterfall Creative

I'm kicking off this week with a new feature, Spaces, featuring designers, artists, and creatives in their workspaces. We each have that space where our ideas come to life, and the sweet Joanna Waterfall is sharing a bit about her space today. I met Joanna a few weeks ago when we helped at Blogshop LA - it was so great to get to know her. 

Tell us about yourself as a creative.

Hello! My name is Joanna Waterfall and I recently started my own graphic design business, Waterfall Creative. Although running your own business isn't easy, it has been so rewarding! Having the ability to meet awesome people and work with them to create something new is the greatest job in the world. 

Describe your creative journey.

I have always considered myself an artist- ever since I was young I wanted to be one. My first two years of college I was a fine arts major- learning how to draw, paint and design. After transferring schools, I decided to focus on graphic design. I graduated with my degree in graphic design and digital media and began working at a design firm in Newport Beach upon graduation. Soon after I got married and moved to LA. Wanting to be free in my design and creativity I started freelancing full time. And here I am today!

Share a little bit about your space.

My space was made for me by my husband (he's the best!). Before that I was working from my laptop on the kitchen table!  I have such an eclectic style, liking everything from big bold patterns, to more subtle, neutral illustrations. (My Kelli Murray print is my favorite!) So my space has a little bit of everything. It's still a work in progress, there's so much I want to do with it... but for now, it's so great to have a designated work area for me when I work from home. I know that when I'm in that chair, it's business time! I love having my big chalkboard where I can jot down to-do's or ideas that come to me. My big bulletin board is full of encouraging notes from happy clients, magazine clippings, and friend's business cards I collect. Looking at those things are what keeps me going on days where I need some inspiration!

What's your favorite thing about your space?

That it's mine to do whatever I want with! Coming from working in an office, I felt very restricted on what I could and couldn't do. Now, the possibilities are endless! And I also love the fact that it is homemade by my husband. It reminds me of his support and love, and that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside!

What's one thing you think every creative needs in their space?

Whatever makes you do what you do best! Only restrict things that stop you from making good work. If you can't work without caffeine, and you want a coffee maker on your desk, go for it! Place things around you that inspire you. Make your space a place of freedom where when you are in it, you feel the most like yourself! The notes from my clients are so great for me to have in my work area, because it makes me so happy when I can bring some joy to others. They remind me why I do what I do.

Be sure to check out Waterfall Creative, Joanna's Blog, and follow her on Twitter.

Thanks Joanna!

Be sure to stay tuned for upcoming Spaces features!

*Photos by Joanna