Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracie Momie.
Tracie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am an author and freelance graphic designer with a Bachelors degree in Communication from the University of Houston- Clear Lake. I am a big believer in reinventing yourself, you can do whatever and be whatever you want at any time. I could be the poster child for age not being a factor! I got married at 32, had my first child at 34 and my last child at 38. I earned an Associates degree (Human Resource Management) in my 20s but didn’t get my Bachelors degree until I was 40.
I worked in banking for over a decade and then in Human Resources (benefits administration) for a decade and a half. I officially stopped working in Corporate America in 2012 to become a stay at home mom and less than six months later, I began doing freelance graphic design work. I’ve always loved reading and started writing fictional stories at the age of thirteen as a creative outlet but it wasn’t until my mother passed away in 2012 that I decided to share my stories.
I’d always been too afraid before, but her death made me realize I wasn’t going to be around forever, so I stepped out on faith and went for it. And the feedback and support that I’ve received have been amazing! My first book was published in 2015 (I was 45) and my latest release was published in April of this year, I’m 48. It’s never too late and you’re never too old!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being an author and freelancer are both such solitary functions, so I often feel a bit isolated. But I’ve been able to overcome those obstacles by having book launch events to meet with my readers and attending business networking events to meet potential clients. However, the part I struggle with the most is trying to balance what I do with also being a wife and mother. Writing not only requires discipline but also TIME and when I’m down to the wire trying to finish a book, I have to spend a lot of time on my computer and sometimes I suffer from “mom guilt”.
Like, am I spending enough time with my family? Or I should have cooked instead of taking them to Sonic for dinner. LOL! But at the end of the day, my husband and my children are my biggest cheerleaders and they support me 100%. I think it’s crucial to have some type of support system, whether it’s family, friends or even fellow entrepreneurs. You just need someone in your corner helping to bolster your confidence when you feel like giving up. Someone to say, “It’s okay, you got this. Keep going!”
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I currently have four self-published books in the marketplace and all of them have five-star reviews on Amazon! My stories focus on relationships– romantic, familial and friendships. I love writing about the dynamics of how people relate to each other and overcome their issues. I believe my graphic design work compliments (and often supplements) my writing because it involves being creative and thinking outside the box for my clients.
I’ve designed marketing collateral and logos for lawyers, politicians, bloggers, and public speakers. But my main clientele is small business owners just getting started. I think what sets me apart from other graphic designers is that I offer affordable and professional designs with a quick turnaround. And while my designs are always visually appealing, it’s important that it represents my clients brand and I aim for 100% satisfaction.
The entire design process is a collaborative effort between me and the client. My work portfolio includes logos, flyers, business cards, book covers, social media marketing, and websites.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was really into books and enjoyed school. I also loved Barbie’s and roller skating. I had my own roller skates and would spend the weekends at the skating rink! I was shy as a kid but when I got to know people I was quite the chatterbox! When I was younger, I wanted to be a teacher but realized I was lacking the necessary patience and temperament for the job.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.traciemomie.com
- Phone: 7134894035
- Email: tracie.momie@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/traciemomie
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TracieMomieCreative
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/traciemomie
Image Credit:
Mario Rubio
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