Nics Norman

What is your creative Journey?

Before starting my own web design studio, I worked at Amazon for about 5 years and also started my own fashion brand e-commerce business. I felt like I wanted to express my creativity in some ways and at first it was through fashion and product design. I'm glad that I started that business because it made me realize that I'm much more passionate about the creative online experience of an e-commerce business which is what made me decided to pivot. And I'm now able to serve other brand owners by creating that experience and delivering that creative vision for them.

What are Your future business plans?

I'd like to expand my studio offerings to cater to e-commerce businesses at different stages and varying levels of budget e.g. start offering DIY templates and done-with-you services. This past year, I loved collaborating with other service providers e.g. copywriter and SEO experts as well and would love to continue to do so in the future.

What piece of advice would you offer creatives entering the field?

Creative careers offer a unique advantage—you have the freedom to pivot and experiment. Your creative endeavors are your business, and you have the autonomy to launch new projects, try new things, and adapt to changing trends. Don't be afraid to take risks. Also, carve out time for yourself to just explore new things and create for the sake of creating. Sometimes, I find that my best portfolio work was born out of an idea I just couldn't get out of my head at night!

How do balance your personal and professional life?

Carve out time during the day to enjoy other hobbies and spending time away from your computer. For me, that means taking inspirations from travels or being on the water. I've really enjoyed paddle boarding over the last year and we've made a decision to try living on a houseboat over the next year to be even closer to the water!

How do you think you stand apart from other creatives?

We’re Shopify experts whose mission is to help e-commerce brands thrive. Our expertise and focus on e-commerce means that we're able to understand what product-based businesses need and make us know the ins-and-outs of Shopify and how to leverage the platform to the fullest for our clients.

Can you share some lessons you've learned through your creative career?

Just like any other business, creative careers come with their fair share of ups and downs. There will be moments when you feel overwhelmed and doubt your path. However, the key is to keep believing in yourself and your abilities. Remember that challenges are a part of growth. And don't be afraid to seek guidance from those who have walked a similar path before. Finding a mentor or expanding your network can provide you with invaluable insights and shortcuts to success.

How does tools like Webflow and Figma help your business process?

I use Figma everyday for my web design projects and even for social media posts to market my own studio. My studio website was originally on Squarespace and I switched over to Webflow at the beginning of the year because of more design freedom, flexibility and animations that I'm able to incorporate.