Today we’d like to introduce you to Cathy Kaczmarczyk.
Cathy, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Originally born + raised in the suburbs of Chicago, after receiving my marketing degree in college, I took a position at Sherwin Williams. Year after year I continued to move up the career ladder. and I even worked in a field I loved – Color Design. Not only was I getting promoted frequently and doing design work I enjoyed, but I was getting the opportunity to live in new cities. I started in Chicago, moved to Milwaukee, WI, and then to San Diego, CA.
I always knew I had more ambition than selling paint. HAH! I also knew I wasn’t a fan of the corporate structure of large companies but wasn’t sure where my next turn was.
Things all changed Oct. 1, 2017, as I lay on the ground praying for my life at the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas. Making it out of this tragedy alive took its toll on me, but eventually helped me to open my eyes to taking more risks and really making my life what I wanted it to be. Who knew I could be doing something I actually loved? Was it even possible to love going to work every day? Spoiler alert – the answer is YES
I invested in a career coach that helped me make the big turning point! Great investment. In September of 2018, I quit my safe and comfy job and started taking jobs in the start-up world and tech industries. I wanted to learn how to help businesses with social media, but I needed some real-world experience. At one point, I think I had about 5-6 jobs/internships! My stubborn Polish + Greek spirit kept me rolling with it.
As 2019 started to get closer, I knew it was time to make the jump and start alt-content. Jan. 1 2019 was the birthday of my biz!
Has it been a smooth road?
This road is not paved and it’s quite bumpy. Don’t get me wrong it’s hella scary, but who wants to drive down the same highway they’ve seen millions of times?
Advice – For women who are trying to make a big change in your life, reach out to people who will support you. For me, finding a career coach gave me the support and resources I needed to make it happen. I constantly have ideas clogging up my brain and need someone to help me sort it out! I’m sure all my creative peeps/entrepreneurs out there can understand.
I also think it is important for women to deal with their mental health before making any big changes. Again, there are so many resources out there to take advantage of, and it isn’t something you should be ashamed of. Talk about it and address it. Starting your journey with a clear mind will help your success.
Overall… INVEST IN YOURSELF, and don’t listen to everyone around you. Do what is best for you.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
alt-content = alternative visual content
I have always believed in being ‘different’ and not like everyone else. Hence where ‘alt’ = alternative came from. The ‘content’ part comes from creating content for social media. While I was in the paint industry, I worked in the color sector. I provided in-home color consultations for customers and trained/hired/coached color consultants. You could say I have an eye for color and just a bit of knowledge to set myself apart. 🙂
alt-content creates eye-catching, exclusive, and engaging:
-Instagram feeds (Check out our Patchwork Stories!)
-Videos
-Graphics
-Any Social Media related visuals
alt-content makes your ludicrous visual imaginations come alive in social media. Why? It is important that your brand not only aligns with your target market… but it also needs to align with you. If you don’t love your branding, how can you possibly be successful?
Were there people and/or experiences you had in your childhood that you feel laid the foundation for your success?
My parents and family have made me into the person I am today. My Dad being stubborn and un-excepting of excuses has made me a relentless person who doesn’t give up. My Mom’s creativity and artistic skills have helped me find my own creativity and not giving up on it. Then, of course, my YiaYia (Grandma), has always inspired me to be a strong woman in the working world while being the most stylish person in the room.
Pricing:
- Instagram 12 Day Graphics – $60
- Instagram 18 Day Graphics – $90
- Facebook 30 sec. Cover video $50
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alt-content.com
- Email: cathy@alt-content.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/altcontent/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/altcontentt/
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
