Meet Ingrid Nájera | Freelance Graphic Design/Photographer & Art Teacher

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ingrid Nájera and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ingrid, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
I believe the most impactful things I’ve done as a parent is work on myself and keep him close. I had my son when I was 20 so to say I wasn’t ready, is an understatement. But nobody is ever ready and you’re constantly learning more about who you are and who you want to be.

I always wanted to be someone that my child could turn to for anything instead of them fearing what I might say. I think that statement alone has fostered such a beautiful relationship between me and my son. Not only am I able to be a safe space for him, but I’m also able to guide him when he’s comes to me for advice.

In that same breathe I think I realized who I wanted to be, when I thought about who I wanted him to be. Because our kids will learn our habits, the way we talk to ourselves and others, and listen to the advice we give them. I knew I needed to heal some parts of me in order to become the best mom I could be.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a graphic designer, illustrator, photographer and art teacher. I’m most proud of the fact that I was able to take my passion for art and make that my source of income. The process of becoming a freelance artist was not easy. It took over 3 years to gain consistent clientele, create a reliable reputation, and expand my skillset to fit different clientele needs.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to not limit myself to what I think my future should look like. I stay open and take advantage of most opportunities that come my way. It can be scary to try something new with the possibility of failing, and failing miserably, but taking risks is the only way to create new opportunities.

I think the biggest thing I’d want people to take away from my story is that if you have a dream. Follow it. It won’t always be easy and you never really stop doubting yourself completely. But once you get a chance to live in an answered prayer, you understand why you cannot give up.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In the summer, we would definitely hit the zoo, either during the day or night. We would also go bike riding in one of my favorite little hidden trails in Iowa. We would go to Benson Comedy Club for some standup comedy. And end the night going to Laka Logo Rum Club for some cute drinks and vibes.

For food, we are eating some tacos at Taqueria Tijuana and some mariscos and sushi at Isla Del Mar. For dessert we are getting some chocoflan from my cousin’s bakery and going to 24th Street for some mangonadas.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to dedicate my success to my parents. They have literally been there every step of the way, holding me down and uplifting me every step of the way. I honestly would not be where I am without them.

Website: https://inajera7.wixsite.com/inajera

Instagram: @ingridnajera_

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ingrid.najera.7921/

Image Credits
Lucero Studio