Designer Spotlight with Karie Denny of Ace & Whim

Most people start creating as kids, but then what happens? Website designer Karie Denny of Ace & Whim, never stopped looking to the arts as an outlet. “I have always leaned on art to express myself…” From an early age Karie drew, photographed, and created in several different forms of expression. As an adult she turned a lifetime of knowledge and experience into a photography business and for the last five years, with her design business. Here’s a little bit more about the website designer behind Ace & Whim.

Favorite Part of being a Website Designer?

My favorite part of website design is bringing our client’s vision to life.

Location?

Chandler, AZ

Years in Business?

I have been designing for 5 years and in the photography business for 10 years.

When did you first feel the creative itch?

I have always leaned on art to express myself since I was a child. Creating pencil sketches of famous icons through my teen years was my jam. I remember picking up my first film camera when I was 15 years old.

When did you realize you wanted to (or could) pursue a creative career away from your original career path?

In 2009, I photographed my first paying clients. I was 26, our third child was 3 months old and I was a full time NICU nurse. Juggling kids, a nursing career and starting a wedding photography business was crazy. 2 years later, I left my nursing career and transitioned to full time wedding & portrait photography. My best advice for anyone wanting to make the transition to a full time business owner that is currently juggling ALL the things, is to GO FOR IT. If you believe you can do it, you can. Visualize your success, plan for it and execute it every day.

What’s something you wished you had learned sooner?

I wish I had learned from the beginning that all careers, even ones you are most passionate about can lose their luster. And I wish I had known to have a bigger picture view of my career and a purpose other than “success”. I had never defined what success was for me when I started so when I hit goals or achievements that were somewhat superficial, it all fell flat for me. It left me wondering what I should do next, instead of pushing through to greater goals.

What’s something you are still learning?

I am definitely still learning from the same lesson as above. I’ve been a photographer for more than 10 years and still think of myself as a photographer, not really a website designer. I really love design, and being a photographer for so many years has given me a design-savvy skill set. I’m still learning so much about myself and what I am capable of.

Are there any creatives that influenced you? How did they influence your thinking, design, and career path?

My biggest inspiration as a young photographer was Jose Villa. His use of light captivated me from early on. He is still one of the most amazing photographers I know and I still follow his work. In my design work, I honestly look to the client to be my inspiration. I know I have done my job if the client is proud of their website and sees it as a direct reflection of their brand.

How does social media play a role in your website design business? Have you set social media schedules and/or limits for your business?

I have a love-hate with social media. Honestly, I do not use it well or regularly as a website designer. It hinders my creativity, so I really try to minimize the time I am on it. If you were to hit my search button, you’d find mostly golden retrievers and gardens….that pretty much sums me up.

When creating a business, most people focus on ___A___,when it’s more helpful to focus on ___B___

How did you find out about Showit?

Showit for life! I first heard about Showit in 2009 from a fellow photographer friend. I had never built a website, but jumped right in and never looked back. It made my little dream business real.

Has it changed anything about how your business runs?

The Showit community has been a second family to me over the years. I’ve attended so many great events over the years, United in Vegas, Santa Barbara & Phoenix – each one amazing. I have always felt like Showit wants me to succeed at everything I do…and that truly is family.

More About the Website Designer Behind the Business…

What kinds of books do you like to read when you have the chance?

I do not read as often as I intend to. Though I do listen to audio books frequently, they are almost always business focused. I enjoy learning, constantly. I am WAY more creative and energized when I take time to educate myself. You can always use another perspective.

If Podcasts are your jam, whatcha been listening to?

I LOVE the Bokeh Podcast with Nathan Holritz. Listening to it right now as I type.

If you had all the money in the world to spend on one piece of art, what would you buy?

I am surprised how easily I was able to answer this question. ‘Original Boulevard des Capucines’ by Claude Monet. Yes please.

Favorite quote?

“Courage is grace under pressure” -Ernest Hemingway

Don’t you feel like you are friends with Karie already? Connect with her and her team over on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and of course, their gorgeous custom Showit site at AceandWhim.com

P.S. If you are a website designer and want to know more about designing on Showit, head over here.