Gracie Ramirez-Jones shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Gracie, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One major misunderstanding about the creative industry is the perception that our work is easy or just a hobby. In reality, it involves a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication. Many people don’t recognize the years of education and training that go into mastering our craft. The tools and techniques in this field are constantly evolving, which demands ongoing learning and adaptation.
Another key point is the frequent expectation to work for free. This is often insulting, as it undermines our professional skills. For example, you wouldn’t ask a contractor to build a piece of furniture as a part of their job interview, so why would anyone expect that of a creative professional? It’s essential for people to understand the depth and seriousness of our work.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m currently a Freelance Advertising Art Director, and I truly value being my own boss. This allows me to set my own hours and focus on what matters most to me: my family, my career, and my community.
I’m a native San Diegan, which is becoming rarer these days. I’ve ventured away for college and career growth, but I always return, as this city holds my heart. I consider myself a “good troublemaker” because I’ve always stood up to bullies, a trait I’ve carried since childhood. Right now, I’m dedicated to using my talents for good and I hope to eventually start teaching.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was the biggest tomboy. I loved every minute of it. I refused to wear dresses and preferred playing with my G.I. Joes. I even got my first .22 rifle when I was just 8 years old. I wasn’t going to sit quietly and act like a “good little girl.” I was tough, determined to show the boys that girls could do everything they could do—and sometimes even better.
As I grew older, I found myself fighting less with the boys and starting to fall in love with them. That’s when the dresses and skirts made their way back into my life, but on my terms, of course. Societal norms can be restrictive; you’ll never please everyone, so you might as well do what makes you happy.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
When I was scared or sad as a child, my imagination was my greatest escape. Being the youngest of two sisters for ten years, I often felt left out while they were off with friends or at parties. To cope, I created beach parties in my room and ran my own bakery shop in the backyard, where I made beautiful mud pies decorated with flowers and rocks. I used whatever I had at my disposal to craft my own adventures.
I also found solace in reading. I would order books behind my mom’s back, and she’d get upset when they arrived because she had to pay for them. Sorry, Mom! I worry that kids today may struggle to tap into their imagination, and I fear that AI and technology could be taking that away from them.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A project I’m committed to for the rest of my life is myself. I strive to be a better human, and that’s a journey that will take as long as it takes. I don’t believe growth stops at a certain age or milestone; there’s always room for improvement, new experiences to embrace, and perspectives to understand.
My sons are teenagers now, and I learn from them all the time. We often underestimate the youth of today. My generation, Gen X, needs to remember how it felt when Boomers called us lazy and stupid during our adolescence, claiming that MTV and rap music were rotting our brains. It’s important to keep an open mind and recognize that every generation has valuable insights to share.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I’m don’t know if I was born to do what I’m doing now but I definitely love what I do and it brings me joy. As long as I can use my imagination and creativity, I’m good.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://graciejones.myportfolio.com/
- Instagram: @foodie_moovies
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracie-ramirez-jones-72aa2b26/
- Other: https://www.foodiemoovies.com/
