Today we’d like to introduce you to Michaela Powell.
Michaela, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am the owner and creative behind Simply Meeks. I am 21 years old from Arlington, Tx and currently attend Louisiana State University. I found out that I was creative at a young age. I knew I could draw but it wasn’t until my freshman year of college that I discovered that I could paint. I would paint my favorite artists, black women, and anything that inspired me on canvas.
Simply Meeks started because I was on the quest to find a gift for a friend. My inability to find a unique and creative Bible inspired me to start my own business and ministry. Through my gift of artistry and creativity, I hand paint Bibles, journals, tumblers. I was able to intertwine my love for Jesus with my love for creating.
Has it been a smooth road?
I would not say that it has been smooth at all, but I’ve definitely seen God’s grace. I have never owned a business before Simply Meeks. In the beginning, I was learning everything as I went, while still maintaining two jobs. I had to learn what worked and what didn’t work, how to efficiently balance my time, and how to be patient with myself when I didn’t get it right the first time. There were times when I wanted to give up because of the fear of not believing that God’s promise would come to pass. I have had to push past my self- doubt and I am still continuing to learn how to be confident in who God created me to be and the gifts that He’s given me to fulfill my purpose.
Advice for other women would be to stay grounded in who God created you to be and know that you have a purpose! There is so much around us that can start to make us doubt and/or compare. Remind yourself of His promises and know that everything that He started in you, He will finish (Philippians 1:6). Also, surround yourself with other women bosses! I have some amazing women in my corner who have helped me with entrepreneurship, who have encouraged me during my lows and highs, and who have supported me and my business! We are not supposed to do life alone, especially not in business. Network and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Simply Meeks story. Tell us more about it.
I love to create any and everything that I have the opportunity to. Through Simply Meeks, I am mostly known for my unique and one of a kind hand painted Bibles. That is what sets me apart. When looking at other Bible covers, they are not personable. I allow people to tell their story through the cover and make it look as beautiful as the stories within it. I take time to make sure that everyone who gives me the opportunity to create, see themselves, and loves what they are getting in return.
I also paint journals, tumblers, canvases, grad caps, jean jackets… pretty much if it can be painted, I will paint! I do hand-written calligraphy as well as hand lettering. Lately, I have picked up graphic design and illustrations. I am learning how to create logos, graphics, and portrait illustrations.
I also use Simply Meeks as a platform to encourage millennials through scripture. I am passionate about the Word of God and love to share it with others. I want people to get excited to read their Bibles because it has changed my life.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
Do not let fear hold you back! For the longest time, I was stuck in my own head because I would be nervous to talk to others about my brand. I did not purposely seek to find a mentor but God brought me a few and I am thankful. All of me and my mentors’ relationships started by having a simple conversation. Go to networking events and actually network! I believe you have to be willing to take a chance and talk to people first. Be prepared to talk about your business and answer questions if needed. I am always looking for opportunities to be a vendor and/or network with other businesses. Through that, have come many partnerships and collaborations.
Pricing:
- Hand Painted Bibles -$70-$100
- Canvas Art-$40-$250
- Graduation Caps- $50-$90
- Hand Painted Tumblers- $35
- Hand Painted Journals- $15-$20
Contact Info:
- Website: Simplymeeks.com
- Email: simplymeeks28@gmail.com
- Instagram: @michaelaolevia : @simply_meeks
Image Credit:
Michaela Powell
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