Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandy Garza.
Sandy, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My name is Sandy Garza, and I am a bilingual actress/model/designer/blogger from Houston, Texas. It’s not widely known, but I graduated with honors from the Art Institute of Houston with a BFA. After being laid off twice from two different architectural firms, I felt I needed to explore a different career path. I started out in the entertainment scene by modeling for national magazines. I had always dreamed of working in TV and film but didn’t know how to get my foot in the door. After accompanying an actor friend to set and seeing the gears of a real production turning and working together, I was hooked.
My first acting roles were for local short films, but it wasn’t long before I was booking commercials, music videos, and even TV and film gigs. It was a dream come true, but my penchant for design concepts kept pulling me towards working in the art department. Whether I’m working in front of the camera or behind the scenes, I believe in putting in the hours and elbow grease to make a project happen.
Three years ago, I moved with my ex-husband to pursue the “west coast dream”, even though I’d tried to leave my abusive marriage many times. I stayed as long as I did out of concern for my dogs’ safety, but in 2019, the situation became too much to bear and I finally left for good. To just get up, pack a small bag of clothes, grab my dogs, and drive 1500 miles back to Texas with less than $100 in my bank account — it’s astounding to me that I was able to do that. A year later, I’m in a much better financial situation. I’ve paid for my car and two credit cards off. I am forever grateful to my friends and family who lent me money. I am grateful for the people that helped me get access to the government assistance provided for domestic survivors.
I met an amazing group of women a few months after I moved back, and I couldn’t be more grateful for them: The Houston Latina Bloggers. These women come from all walks of life. Some are bloggers, YouTubers, makeup artists, jewelry designers, candy makers, etc. I love the constant support these ladies give to one another! These ladies inspired me to start my blog (www.aflowerwithavoice.com) and share my voice.
I never imagined that I would become a statistic. I never imagined I would become a woman who would fall victim to physical, verbal, financial, and emotional abuse. I never imagined I would say that my life was altered and forever changed by domestic violence. One year later, here I am. Still alive. I am a survivor.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road! I’ve had to muster the courage to finally seek professional help. While I was going to a therapist, I had to deal with all the legal stuff: filing a protective order and getting out of $20K of tax debt that was not mine. Despite my vulnerability at the time, I am not one to give up easily. That go-getter spirit has always been a trait of mine. I started my blog because I came across so many resources that I wish I knew about years ago. It would have helped me leave my marriage so much earlier. Through my blog, I want to help women recognize abuse, and hopefully, they can build the courage to leave their toxic environment.
Please tell us about your work.
I work as a freelancer in the entertainment industry. Because of my educational background and the path life has taken me down, I wear many hats. I am an actress, model, blogger, production coordinator, production designer, content creator, and much more. I like to stay busy! Everything I do, I give all my effort. 100%. I also try to incorporate my production and design knowledge in the content that I create.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success, to me, is peace of mind. It’s knowing that I made an effort to become the best I am capable of becoming. So, as I am accomplishing one major life goal, I’m already thinking of what my next one is going to be. I’ve had my fair share of triumphs, but I always stay hungry!
Contact Info:
- Website: aflowerwithavoice.com
- Email: booking@sandygarza.com
- Instagram: https://www.
instagram.com/iamsandygarza - Facebook: https://www.
facebook.com/iamsandygarza - Twitter: https://www.twitter.
com/itssandygarza - Other: https://www.instagram.
com/aflowerwithavoice
Image Credit:
The Montrose Studios
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