Daily Inspiration: Meet Mikayla Roux

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mikayla Roux.

Mikayla, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. My love for my home state, the outdoors, and local art has definitely influenced my career path, as well as my small business. M Designs by Mikayla is a small business that I started in high school and has continued to evolve with me throughout high school and now college. I am currently a junior at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, pursuing a degree in Interior Design and minoring in Business. One of the reasons I chose to go to school here is because it offered a new, exciting environment, but also reminded me a bit of home.

M Designs by Mikayla specializes in custom calligraphy for events, specifically weddings. I have since expanded my business, and now do graphic design and some interior design work as well. I draw a lot of inspiration from the environment I am working. Being from Alaska, I have lots of experience in the wedding industry, especially with couples who decide to either elope or have destination weddings. I absolutely love it.

Ultimately, when people see my designs, I want people to see well-crafted art that exudes encouragement and joy. I am blessed to be in an industry where I can connect my love for others and my love for art.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
One of the biggest challenges throughout my time as a small business owner would be the COVID-19 pandemic. As I mentioned, the pandemic really impacted small businesses and the wedding industry. However, this resulted in small business owners and artists networking with one another. During this time, I was also able to rebrand and expand my own business and the services I offer.

Another struggle I dealt with was comparing myself to other business owners and creators. I was really young when I first started out in the industry. However, I learned to change my perspective: rather than comparing myself to other successful businessmen and women, I started asking them questions. I started to learn from them and see them as mentors, rather than competitors. This really opened doors for me to make friends and network with others in the industry. Supporting others is such an important part of the worlds of design and business.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Ever since I was young, art and entrepreneurship have been passions of mine, and aesthetics have always been important to me. I love the idea of finding things with potential and enhancing their beauty. In my early teenage years, I began to make decor and chalkboard art for church events, family birthdays, baby showers, and more. This is what began my process of commissioning art pieces for others.

Slowly but consistently, my little hobby evolved into M Designs by Mikayla. I then decided to create a business Instagram account, as I realized social media is one of the most effective ways to market products and services these days. Creating art locally, as well as participating in various photoshoots and collaborations with other small businesses, has most definitely aided me in establishing my brand and name. Now, as a college student, I continue to make art. As we all know and have experienced, the COVID pandemic has really taken a toll on the economy, especially small businesses. The wedding industry suffered greatly. We have seen an increase in the number of couples deciding to elope as a result. This was a great opportunity for me to make elopement announcements or signage for small intimate wedding ceremonies.

During COVID-19 and quarantine, I also kept myself busy learning how to make digital art. This was very beneficial for my business, as I began to expand into new territory as an artist and business owner. Graphic design and creating logos quickly became something I love. My iPad became one of my favorite mediums to make art with; I love drawing, designing, and doing calligraphy on it!

Now, as a student at Northern Arizona University, I am majoring in Interior Design and minoring in Business. My experience in the small business and local artist industries has given me real-world experience for both my college major and minor. This last summer, I had the amazing opportunity to work as an intern interior designer at Spark Design, LLC. Spark is an architectural firm specializing in commercial projects, based out of Anchorage, Alaska.

My role as an intern here primarily included using Revit and Escape to work on 2D construction documents and create 3D renderings of various spaces for commercial projects. I also utilized Adobe Suite (specifically Adobe InDesign, Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Lightroom) to work on documents, design boards, and more. I especially loved meeting with brand representatives to discuss various textiles and products for design (such as flooring, lighting, etc.) My internship this summer also gave me opportunities to go on on-site visits with architects, as well as work closely with the architects and designers to weigh in on design decisions for projects.

Because of my passion for the art, design, and architectural industry, I have decided to also do some small freelancing, in terms of interiors. I commission small projects for individuals or businesses that might need some assistance in the design process of their interiors or new builds. I am passionate about helping people envision a space and choosing various textiles or colors that add to the overall aesthetics and accessibility of their built environment.

I am blessed to have opportunities to interact with people of varying backgrounds. I also hope to inspire others.

Specifically, I hope to show young entrepreneurs how it truly is possible to be passionate about one’s own work, and that one’s endeavors are possible through determination and diligence.

What matters most to you?
I live by the mantra, “Created to Create.” My faith in Christ plays a significant role in why I do what I do; it gives me purpose in my business, and ultimate purpose in life. My art is an expression of my passion for the Lord. Through my art, I hope to enhance the beauty in the world by being attentive to the “little things” in life. My business allows me to influence the smiles on individuals’ faces and the joy in their hearts.

This translates into the delight I then receive as the artist. I have been fortunate enough to have either attended or made art for important life events, such as weddings or showers. My customers are so kind in allowing me to participate in their special days. Ultimately, I love encouraging people and witnessing their happiness. My first love for God allows me to then love people to the fullest. My family has played a huge role in supporting my passions, efforts, business ventures, and love for the Lord.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mikaylaroux.wixsite.com/mikaylarouxart
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdesigns.mikaylaroux/
• Other: https://msha.ke/mikaylaroux/

Image Credits
Alexa Hudson, Connor David, Donna Marie, Sabrina Patterson, and Erica Rose