Daily Inspiration: Meet Brianna Alvarez

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianna Alvarez

Hi Brianna, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve always been fascinated by art and digital media, especially as a 90s kid growing up alongside the rapid evolution of the internet. My journey into digital art started when I was creating Myspace layouts for myself and my friends, building websites on Piczo, and experimenting with digital drawings on Paint. Those early experiences sparked my passion for design, and I continued to explore it as I grew.

When I decided to pursue a degree in graphic design, I began my studies at Long Beach Community College. During that time, I taught myself Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, which laid the foundation for my skills. I later transferred to Cal State Long Beach, where I expanded my design knowledge and learned what it truly meant to be a graphic designer.

After graduating, I started freelancing, working with friends, local artists, small businesses, and creating personal projects for my social media. Over the past three years, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work with organizations like the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and The Coollab Project. These collaborations have helped me grow both as a designer and as a creative, allowing me to engage with my community and contribute to projects that celebrate local art and culture.

As I continue my journey as a graphic designer, I would love to further my craft, expand my skills, and continue working with my community and other brands.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. I’ve faced my share of struggles along the way. One of the biggest challenges has been managing Type 1 diabetes, which has been an extra layer of concern and something I always have to be mindful of. In addition to that, I’ve struggled with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), which really set me back during my high school years. My original plan to attend college right after high school didn’t happen as I had to focus on my mental health first.

During that time, I found outlets for my depression through my passions and creative work, which became a form of therapy for me. As I started to get the help I needed, I realized I was ready to continue my education. In my mid-20s, I felt it was the right time to go back to school, so I started slowly, at my own pace, by enrolling in community college. Eventually, I transferred to Cal State Long Beach, where I received my bachelor’s degree in Studio Art with a minor in Graphic Design.

While my struggles created a delay in my journey, they didn’t stop me. In fact, they made me more determined to follow my passions and carve out my own path. It’s been a process of overcoming setbacks, but I’m grateful for the growth and resilience I’ve gained along the way.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a freelance graphic designer from Long Beach, CA, with over three years of experience in digital and print media. I specialize in branding, event promotion, and web design, working with local artists, small businesses, and organizations. I am passionate about creating impactful and meaningful designs. I also host “Poster Wednesdays” on my Instagram page, where I showcase my creativity and engage with my audience through fun and vibrant posters. I am most proud of my commitment to working hard and pursuing my dreams, as well as my resilience in the face of challenges. I am grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given and thankful that my hard work and dedication continue to pay off as I grow in my career.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I envision myself running my own brand and company with a dedicated team that shares my passion for creativity and community engagement. I aspire to continue collaborating with my community while also partnering with larger brands that align with my values and that I personally admire. My goal is to create a space where innovative design meets meaningful impact, fostering connections within my community and beyond.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.briannaalvarez.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blingartistry